On March 13th, the University of Macau Moon Chun Memorial College Dom Pedro V House invited Bob Lu, a young entrepreneurial coffee barista, who took us on an amazing journey through the world of coffee.

At the beginning of the event, Bob resembled a walking coffee encyclopedia, captivating the MCMCers with the rich history of coffee. From its origins to its rise as one of the world’s most beloved beverages, the students were highly engaged in his informative presentation. Bob also shared insights into the coffee culture of Portugal, offering students a glimpse into the distinct flavors found in different regions.

The highlight of the event was the coffee tasting session, eagerly anticipated by the students. Bob brought along various types of coffee with different roasting levels, ranging from light to dark roast, each boasting its own unique flavor and aroma. As the students savored the different brews, Bob expertly explained the characteristics and roasting techniques of each coffee, enhancing their understanding and knowledge.

Throughout the event, Bob not only demonstrated his deep attainments in coffee, but also interacted with everyone in a humorous and witty manner, filling the room with laughter. His expertise and charisma gave audience a deeper understanding and love for coffee.

This activity not only provided MCMCers with knowledge about coffee but also allowed them to experience the captivating charm of coffee culture and the history of Portuguese coffee.

Text：Yifan Ying

Pastoral Care Support Unit of Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau held a film salon on 13 March 2024 to promote students’ mental health through the film “Welcome to Me”. It is a comedy about a person who suffers from borderline personality disorder. Before watching the film, MCM College social worker, Ms. Yan Leong guided the participants to observe the main character’s thinking pattern and external behavior with curiosity. During the post-screening session, many participants expressed that they did not quite understand or accept the main character’s way of expressing emotions and interaction pattern with others. The film raised participants’ attention to borderline personality disorder and how to relate to people with mental illness. Leong answered participants’ questions patiently and encouraged them to relate to people with mental illness with empathy.

Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau held a workshop on ‘Introduction to SPSS Data Analysis Tool” on 13^th March 2024, conducted by Resident Tutor, Iris Dai. This workshop introduced the use of SPSS software and data analysis skills. Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, participants learned the process of data import, cleaning and transformation, basic statistical analysis methods such as descriptive statistics and correlation analysis, and how to use SPSS to generate various charts and reports such as bar charts and line graphs. The workshop was both practical and easy to understand, and the participants benefited a lot from it.

Text: Iris Dai

On Monday evening, 11^th March, 2024, Felipe Barbosa (FSS Senior) and Celina Wang (FAH Sophomore), Resident Assistant of Camões House, organised an activity at Fellows’ Salon: “Macanese, Culture, and Identity”. The event was an open forum structured around Macau’s ethnic minority group: Macanese. The event featured an in-depth introduction by Felipe who generated high-interest with three pivotal issues: identity, creole, and food heritage. To engage students, and prompt further discussion, Prof. Mário Pinharanda-Nunes, Director of Research Centre for Luso-Asian Studies (FAH), and Dr. Manuel Noronha, Associate Master, joined in and shared their insights into shaping the forum into a more agile, adaptable, and relaxed atmosphere, whilst maintaining an equal balance of academic and layman terms for those in attendance.

On 7 March 2024, Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau was delighted to invite Prof. Zhu Shoutong, Director of Center for Chinese History and Culture to deliver a talk on “Patriotism in Macao Culture”. Prof. Zhu applied the literary works of Ming Dynasty writers Tang Xianzu and Yu Dafu as the starting point to interpret their relationship with Macao. In addition, Prof. Zhu introduced the national heroes who left their footprints in Macao from the Southern Song Dynasty to modern times, such as Wen Tianxiang, Qu Dajun, Ye Ting, Xian Xinghai. Through the analysis of their patriotic deeds, the love for the nation and the motherland contained in Macao culture was explained. The talk included literary works and tracing the history of celebrities, who inspired students’ confidence in Macao culture. Finally, Prof. Zhu pointed out that Macao has played an important role in carrying Chinese history and culture. He urged students to pay attention to the history and culture of Macao and cultivate the spirit of patriotism for Macao and the motherland.

On March 10 at 3:00 PM, music enthusiasts gathered at University of Macau Moon Chun Memorial College to experience a captivating concert, “Macao Musicales: An Afternoon of Homegrown Compositions.” This event showcased the musical prowess and creativity of six talented Macao composers, with performances by guest artists, staff, and students from MCM College.

The concert featured a diverse range of musical compositions, spanning from classical to contemporary genres. Each piece highlighted the unique artistic expressions of the homegrown composers. The audience was treated to an afternoon filled with exquisite melodies, harmonies, and rhythms that reflected the cultural tapestry of Macao.

The concert program included works by the following Macao composers: (click link to listen)

Coro Perosi:

*Doming Lam: Lullaby;

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGLvphHaaGQ&ab_channel=CollegeMCM

*Young Lam : Our Thanksgiving Song (v. 2022);

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dskeym23bG0&ab_channel=CollegeMCM

*João Ng : Sing the Nature

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzmrQrw_gfY&ab_channel=CollegeMCM

*Evonne Lei:

Three pieces inspired by Wislawa Szymborska 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFLveW22Xnc

Fragrance of Chinese Tea

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1tG4moMcHA&feature=youtu.be

*Addison Wong:

Dances for Violin, I

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVM8HUB3N_o

We Three Kings (arranged)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGAcf1wWVWM

Mechanism and Meaning (words by Hau-Wai Chang)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GqS3x_ZlxIs

*Henry Ip:

“Dukkha”, Clarinet sonata

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2qQ-TrJkfKw&ab_channel=CollegeMCM

Thriving Tea Trade

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxvFAooRbrk&ab_channel=CollegeMCM

The concert not only showcased the immense talent of Macao’s musicians but also served as a platform to promote and support the local music community.

From Left: Mr João Ng, Mr Young Lam, Ms Evonne Lei, Prof Kwok-Cheung Cheung, Mr Addison Wong, Dr Henry Ip

Group photo with all composers and performers

Event organizing committee

Guia House of Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau held a pastel nagomi art workshop on 6 March 2024, with positive psychology “Happiness” as its theme. Special guest for this event is Ms. Genifer Chung, a certified associate instructor of Japan Pastel Hope Art Association (JPHAA).  Pastel nagomi art is a unique painting method originating from Japan in which participants uses their fingers to blend pastels, allowing them to experience moments of harmony, tranquility and joy. House Mistress, Ms. Alice Hong shared the five core elements of happiness, including positive emotions, engagement, relations, meaning and accomplishment. She pointed out that everyone deserves to be happy, so she encouraged participants to use these elements to increase happiness in life.

The St. Paul’s House of Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau, co-organized a Rowling activity with the UM Rowling Club, on the evening of Friday, March 1, 2024.

This activity gave participants a detailed description of Rowling as well as an introduction to the UM Rowling Club. Participants got the chance to experience the excitement of Rowling under the guidance from members of UM Rowling Club. By the end of the activity, a ceremony was held, and gifts were given to winners in the Rowling Relay Race Competition.

St. Paul’s House of Moon Chun Memorial College is looking forward to more collaborations with UM Rowling Club and is aiming to organize more topic-related activities in the future.

Text: Sparkles LI

Last Sunday, the University of Macau MCM College and the UM Photography Society organized an unforgettable outdoor photography event in Coloane. This activity not only allowed students to showcase their personal photography talents but also enabled them to have a good time, make new friends, and explore the unique landscapes and scenery in every corner of Coloane Island. From stunning beaches to ancient streets, from majestic buildings to breathtaking natural scenery, every student had the opportunity to capture stunning moments and beautiful images.

During the event, time was allotted for group discussions and sharing, allowing students to learn from each other, exchange experiences, and share skills. Everyone actively participated and inspired one another, making this event a valuable opportunity for learning and growth. Whether new to photography or experienced photography enthusiasts, everyone felt the warmth and friendliness at this event.

Text: Ruolan MA