A group of ten Hong Kong youths joined a week-long cultural and journalistic exchange in Berlin from June 21 to 28, under the auspices of the Bund der Deutschen Katholischen Jugend and the Diocesan Youth Commission of Hong Kong.
The participants honed their media skills through activities in writing, video production, and audio editing, highlighted by a visit to RBB, Berlin’s public television company.
Discussions centered on social issues, culture, and public affairs, with presentations showcasing their insights, according to a report by Sunday Examiner, the weekly magazine of the office of the Bishop of Hong Kong.
University student Sofie Chu compared recycling practices between Hong Kong and Germany, highlighting environmental awareness.
“Even though the program in Berlin did not center around the Catholic faith, we all felt peaceful and had fun throughout the trip. I believe that God was watching over us, accompanying and guiding us,” Chu said.
The program was initiated to deepen connections between the youths of Hong Kong and Berlin, emphasizing shared experiences and dialogue on cultural and societal issues.
Father Tito Martin highlighted the exchange program’s primary goals, which include fostering new international friendships and facilitating an open dialogue about cultural and religious perspectives among the participants.
“The Diocese of Berlin is very open to the fact that everyone can take part in this kind of exchange, even though the Catholic Church organizes it. It is also important to know the point of view of the Muslim people or the atheists on the social issues in their society. I think it enriches our faith to know the culture of others,” the priest said.
Terry Leung, a pastoral worker, observed the participants’ enthusiasm for cultural interaction and participation in group activities.
The Hong Kong group is now preparing for a reciprocal visit from the Berlin participants from August 18 to 25, which will include visits to local Catholic and charitable organizations focused on social issues.
The visit will culminate in a meeting with Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on August 20, where he will lead a Mass for the young attendees.
