The redevelopment of the Catholic Centre at the junction of Avenida da Praia Grande and Rua do Campo is nearing completion, the Macau Catholic Centre announced in a statement yesterday.
The 17-storey building is undergoing final refinements and government approvals. It is expected to officially open in the mid-to-late second quarter of this year, the statement said, coinciding with the 450th anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Macau.
According to the statement, the centre will integrate a hotel, a restaurant, lecture halls, conference rooms, exhibition spaces, and multiple activity rooms. It is intended to serve as a central hub for the Catholic Church’s mission, hosting both pilgrims and tourists, to “embrace Catholics and non‑Catholics alike with hospitality and inclusivity”, the statement noted.
The statement also said that the centre aims to continue the spiritual mission of the Catholic Church and embody the spirit of Christ, building upon the vision of Bishop Paulo José Tavares, who headed the local diocese between 1961 and 1973.
According to the statement, the centre aims to serve as a bridge for the Macau community, fostering dialogue and cultural exchange.
Construction costs rose significantly following the COVID-19 pandemic, the statement acknowledged, without revealing the final price tag.
The centre expressed gratitude to builders and contractors for their support in completing the project. Donations from the community are welcomed to help sustain its mission. Those wishing to contribute may contact the centre by email press@centro-catolico.org.mo.
This photo provided by the Catholic Centre of Macau yesterday shows the interior of the nearly completed centre on Rua do Campo.
Pedestrians walk past the Macau Catholic Centre yesterday. – Photo: Tony Wong
