Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Shamshuipo Church

In 1897, a beacon of faith arose amidst the bustling streets of Sham Shui Po. This was the first Basel church in Kowloon, a testament to the growing presence of the Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong (TTMHK). The Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Shamshuipo Church, as it became known, stood as a symbol of hope and community for the Hakka people. The church’s roots trace back to the Basel Mission, which began its work among the Hakka people in Guangdong in 1847. Theodore Hamberg and Rudolph Lechler, missionaries sent by the Basel Mission, arrived in Hong Kong under the guidance of Karl Gützlaff. While their missionary work spanned western Guangdong, their home base remained in Hong Kong. The Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Shamshuipo Church became a vital part of this network. Initially, the Basel Mission focused on establishing not just a church, but a mission deeply embedded in the community. Missionaries immersed themselves in Hakka life, their children speaking the language and sharing meals with the locals. They held a deep respect for Chinese culture, even engaging in discussions on Christianity and Feng Shui. The mission also prioritized education, establishing schools throughout Guangdong province. The Basel Mission was also one of the earliest missions in China to adopt the “Three-Self” principles of self-governance, self-support, and self-propagation. This laid the foundation for the future independence of the TTMHK. In 1951, the Hong Kong district of the Tsung Tsin Mission formally separated from the mainland mission, eventually becoming the Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong in 1952. The Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Shamshuipo Church continued to thrive as part of this independent body, serving the local community and maintaining the legacy of the Basel Mission. Today, as you stand before the Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Shamshuipo Church, imagine the generations of Hakka people who found solace and community within its walls. It serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of faith and the lasting impact of cross-cultural exchange.