About us
Both a building and a platform
Since 1962 the Catholic Centre has been a significant landmark and a spiritual home for the community of Macau.
Purpose and mission
A bridge between the Church and the society
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.
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, a 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 tranquillity, 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.
History
Historical Process
From the Catholic Centre of 1962 to the rebuilt premises of 2026 — more than sixty years of change.
1962 – 1990s
The initial stage of the Catholic Centre
The Catholic Centre of Macao was founded by Bishop Policarpo da Costa Vaz, the 19th Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Macau. The current building on Avenida da Praia Grande previously served as the campus of the Colégio Diocesano de São José (1953–1958). In 1962 the site was converted into the Catholic Centre, housing the Catholic Social Services, the Academia de Música São Pio X, the Biblioteca D. Policarpo da Costa Vaz, the Catholic Club and other welfare and social service units. In the early years the Catholic Centre served primarily as a gathering place for the faithful, but it also performed significant social service functions — acting as a hub for education, evangelisation and social services, and providing comprehensive support to the residents of Macau.
1990 – 2010s
The vacant Catholic Centre
Since the 1990s the Catholic Centre has remained vacant; the lively hustle and bustle of the past gradually faded into silence, leaving only the weathered exterior walls to stand silently, witnessing the changes in this small city.
2015 – 2020
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 revitalisation 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 and cost factors, the architectural design was awarded to a Hong Kong company and the construction and engineering works to a Macau company. The new Centre takes “Come and see!” (John 1:39) as its theme, with “Encounter between God and Man” as the guiding idea of the building. It stands 17 storeys tall, with a streamlined exterior and a prominent cross at the top. Inside, the building comprises over 100 hotel rooms, a chapel, a multi-purpose auditorium seating approximately 180 people, exhibition halls and spaces for spiritual retreat — preserving the functions of faith formation and spiritual practice while opening its doors to the general public.
2021 – 2026
Challenges of the Reconstruction Phase
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 construction the project faced numerous challenges — including the global turmoil caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as mounting pressure from rising costs and delays. Despite these difficulties the project moved forward, and the topping-out ceremony for the main structure was held on 22 May 2025.
2026 –
The Opening 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 a historic landmark as it enters a new era with renewed vitality, continuing its deep-rooted connection with Macau society that has spanned over half a century.
Services and positioning
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”; to serve the community of Macau and to welcome pilgrims and tourists from around 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 doors in mid-2026. More than just a building, it serves as a new hub for pastoral care and evangelisation — carrying the memories of the past while embracing the hopes of the future. It is 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 society.
Centre vs Hotel
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 organisation 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 rental services for the exhibition halls, the multi-purpose auditorium, various activity rooms and conference rooms. Looking ahead, the Association aims to develop initiatives that benefit society, fulfilling its vision to be a true bridge connecting the heart of the Macau community.
The Catholic Centre of Macao and the Catholic Centre Hotel operate as separate entities. Pilgrims and tourists are invited to enquire separately about the services offered by the Catholic Centre Hotel.
Operations
The Operations of the Catholic Centre of Macao (Association)
Publicity & Public Relations Office
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 also plans, films and edits 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. It is also responsible for expanding the use of the Centre’s various venues, including the planning and execution of diverse projects and events, and it organises and supports promotional campaigns and exhibitions to advance the institution’s image and public relations.
Communication & Administration Office
Communication & Administration Office
The Communication & Administration Office is primarily responsible for the operations and administrative management of the Catholic Centre of Macao, including 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 news and event announcements, 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. It 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.