About CATSO
The Chinese Catholic Society of UBC is the only Chinese Catholic student organization on the campus of the University of British Columbia. It is also one of the largest Chinese Catholic student organizations in British Columbia, Canada. The Society, also known as CATSO or Tinching, was founded in 1997 by a group of enthusiastic young Catholics from the lower mainland. CATSO became a member of the Alma Mater Society of UBC in 1998, and has been an active member of St. Mark's College ever since its inauguration. St. Mark's College is the Catholic Center for UBC students. We are lucky enough to be able to host most of our activities at the breathtaking surroundings of St. Mark's College. Their newly built chapel and spacious recreation rooms provide us with the perfect setting to share the wonders of God. Currently, CATSO is facilitated under the direction our spiritual advisor: Father Jim O'Neill, CSB. In addition, CATSO has a 12 member executive committee responsible for organizing different events throughout the year.
community in motion
The establishment of the Chinese Catholic Society of UBC has given many Chinese Catholic students the opportunity to gather together and share their faith with other Catholics. Our missions for establishing this community are:
- To strengthen the faith of Catholic students
- To further understand our religion and the readings from the Bible
- To serve the Catholic Church community
- To promote Catholicism to the general public
We are a club in motion! We try our best to serve and praise God, and we are constantly striving to improve. Therefore, we always welcome your suggestions and comments!
tinching spirit

CATSO has already developed a tradition of participation and love. Not only is CATSO a society composed of young Catholics, we are also one big family. Each and everyone of us are brothers and sisters in God's arms. We cherish this relationship very much. Through Bible Studies, sharing, singing, volunteering, sports, and other social activities we are able to learn more about each other, while at the same time become closer to God.
Although the Chinese Catholic Society mainly comprises of Chinese students from UBC, we welcome members of any race or from any school. While most of our activities are presented in Cantonese, immediate translation into English or Mandarin is available on all events. We are a young, active, and vibrant group, and we are confident that you will have a great time in our family!
your turn
So, what are you waiting for? Join the Chinese Catholic Society of UBC today, and become an active part of our big family! We are proud to present a variety of events to our members:
Campus Connect is the "backbone" of our society. Through weekly Bible sharings and sing alongs, we are able to learn more about God, and at the same time share our faith.
Monthly Events are based on our sub-themes of the year. Join us and find ways to Live out our Faith
Christmas Caroling offers members the opportunity to praise God through music. and share the Joy of Christ's birthday with seniors. Our outstanding choir has earned praises from people throughout the community
The Special Working Unit (S.W.U) organizes social events such as corn mazes, ski trips, gym nights, BBQs, karaoke nights, etc. to our members. We need your participation!
The Chinese Catholic Society of UBC, a family built upon the love of God. We welcome all brothers and sisters who are attending a post secondary institution to join our loving family today! If you are lost on your path of faith, feeling lonesome on your road of life, frustrated with university life, wanted someone to talk to, or simply want to meet some new friends who share the same faith as you are. You have found the right place. Step forward now, and it is YOUR TURN to make a difference and contribute to our growing family today.
If you are interested in joining us, please contact us.