About Us
Historical Process
Brief History of the Catholic Centre of Macao (1962 - circa 1990s)
The Catholic Centre of Macao was founded by Bishop Policarpo da Costa Vaz (1954-1960), the 19th Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Macau. The current building of the Catholic Centre was served as the campus of the Colégio Diocesano de São José. In 1962, and later converted into the Catholic Centre. It housed several institutions, including the Catholic Social Services, Academia de Música São Pio X, the Biblioteca D. Policarpo da Costa Vaz, “the Catholic Club”, and different units providing welfare and social services. In the early years, the Catholic Centre served primarily as a gathering place for the faithful. More than this, it also performed significant social service functions, particularly acting as a hub for education promotion, evangelization, and other social services, providing comprehensive support to the residents of Macau.
The vacant Catholic Centre
Since the 1990s, the Catholic Centre has remained vacant, the lively hustle and bustle in the past has gradually faded into silence, leaving only the weathered exterior walls to stand silently, and witnessing the changes in this small city.
Entering the Reconstruction Phase
To carry forward the mission of the Catholic Centre, the Catholic Diocese of Macau formed a task force in 2015 to discuss revitalization plans. After gathering opinions and conducting consultations, the demolition and reconstruction plan was announced in 2017, with the decision to construct a new building on the original site. After evaluating design concepts of all parties and cost factors, the reconstruction project was awarded to a Hong Kong company for the architectural design and a Macau company for the construction and engineering works. The new building stands 17 stories tall, designed with the theme of “Encounter between God and Man”. It features a streamlined exterior design with a prominent cross at the top. Inside, the building comprises over 100 hotel rooms, a chapel, a multi-purpose auditorium with the capacity of approximately 180 people, exhibition halls, and spaces for spiritual retreat. It preserves the functions for faith formation and spiritual practices while also opening its doors to the general public.
Challenges of the Reconstruction Phase (Since 2021)
The reconstruction project officially commenced on 8 September, 2021 (The Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary), presided over by His Excellency Bishop Stephen Lee Bun Sang. During the construction period, the project faced numerous challenges - including global turmoil caused by the pandemic of Covid-19, as well as the mounting pressure from rising costs and delays in the construction schedule. Despite these difficulties, the project successfully moved forward. The topping-out ceremony for the main structure was eventually held on 22 May, 2025.
The Opening Ceremony of the New Catholic Centre
The entire Centre officially opened on 12 June, 2026, coinciding with the 450th Anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Macau. This milestone marks the rebirth of this historic landmark - which has witnessed the passage of time - as it enters a new era with renewed vitality, continuing its deep-rooted connection with Macau society that has spanned over half a century.
The Purpose and Mission of the Catholic Centre of Macao
Since its inception, the Catholic Centre of Macao has embraced a clear and humble mission: to serve as a bridge between the Church and the society. This bridge represents more than just the transmission of faith ; it is a concrete manifestation of love and service. During the 1960s, when society in Macau was still in its formative years, the Catholic Centre maintained a welcoming attitude, providing spaces for educational, cultural, social, and spiritual activities, and fostering a community where everyone could belong. It is both an architectural building and a vital platform - a place where the faithful can deepen their faith, the public can encounter the spirit of the Gospel, and those in need can find a helping hand.
Today, with the completion of the reconstruction project, the mission of the Catholic Centre has been revitalized. Centered on the core spirit of “Encounter between God and Man”, the new building continues its historic role as a “bridge” while responding to the needs of the current society. The facility features a small chapel and spiritual spaces dedicated to liturgical celebrations, retreats, and faith formation. It also remains an open and inclusive destination, featuring lecture halls, exhibition halls, restaurant, and hotel rooms; inviting local residents, pilgrims, and tourists to visit, rest and interact. Whether you are a believer seeking spiritual nourishment or a pedestrian looking for a moment of tranquility, the Centre offers a welcoming corner for all.
The mission of the Catholic Centre has never been confined within the walls of the Church; instead, it continues to take root in faith and branch out in service, offering protection and care to the city of Macau. The Catholic Centre, once a collective memory for generations, will continue to walk alongside the people of Macau with a humble yet steadfast pace, growing together with the community in the future.
Services and Mission of the New Catholic Centre
Sixty years on, the newly rebuilt Catholic Centre of Macao will continue to uphold its core value and mission of “Serving the Community, Promoting Education, and Flourishing Culture”; continue to serve the community of Macau and welcome pilgrims and tourists from around over the world with the city’s unique hospitality. In doing so, the Centre actively aligns its initiatives with the development goals of the nation and the Macau SAR Government.
Coinciding with the 450th anniversary of the establishment of the Catholic Diocese of Macau, the Catholic Centre officially opened its door in mid - 2026. More than just a building, it serves as a new hub for pastoral care and evangelization - carrying the memories of the past while embracing the hopes of the future. It serves as a significant platform for faith, culture, and community exchange. These achievements would not have been possible without the unwavering support and generous donations from all sectors of the society.
The Catholic Centre of Macao vs. The Catholic Centre Hotel
The premises of the Catholic Centre of Macao are managed by the Catholic Centre Management Company Limited, with the “Catholic Centre of Macao” (Association)” and the “Catholic Centre Hotel” operating as independent entities.
The Catholic Centre of Macao is no longer merely a symbolic landmark, it was officially established as a non-profit social service organization in 2021. It continues to uphold its decades-long mission and spirit of service, evolving with the times to support the Macau community in innovative ways. At the same time, in recognition of Macau’s prominence as a world heritage and tourism destination, the Centre serves as a gateway for tourists, offering deeper insights into the city’s catholic heritage and cultural legacy.
The Catholic Centre of Macao (Association) oversees the operations across the Ground Floor to the 4th floor, as well as the 17th floor. Its scope of management includes the rental services for exhibition halls, the multi-purpose auditorium, various activity rooms, and conference rooms. Looking ahead, the Association aims to develop various initiatives that benefit society, fulfilling its vision to be a true bridge connecting the heart of the Macau community.
The Operations of the Catholic Centre of Macao (Association)
Publicity & Public Relations Office
The Publicity & Public Relations Office is responsible for managing the official website and social media platforms of the Catholic Centre of Macao. Beyond ensuring timely information updates, the office is also responsible for planning, filming, and editing various promotional and event videos to support both internal and external communication needs.
In addition, the office undertakes the production of Catholic-themed films and videos, while also maintaining records, databases, and documentation for public relations and promotional activities. Furthermore, it is also responsible for expanding the use of the Centre’s various venues, including the planning and execution of diverse projects and events. The office also organizes and supports various promotional campaigns and exhibitions to comprehensively advance the institution’s image and public relations development.
Communication & Administration Office
The Communication & Administration Office is primarily responsible for the operations and administrative management of the Catholic Centre of Macao. It includes overseeing reception services, the training of receptionists and on-site tour guides, the promotion of fundraising initiatives, and the management of venue rentals.
In terms of information dissemination, the office handles media relations, content writing and updates for the official website and the interactive screens, and the production of the Centre’s publications and related materials. Additionally, the office also promotes local pilgrimage activities in Macau. These functions work in synergy to ensure the effective transmission of the Centre’s messages while maintaining smooth and professional daily operations.
Catholic Centre Hotel
The Catholic Centre of Macao and the Catholic Centre Hotel operate as separate entities. Pilgrims and tourists are invited to visit the following link for detailed information regarding the services offered by the Catholic Centre Hotel.