Friday, 19 September 2025
Today, we gather to reflect on a significant chapter in history—the Victory Day of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, observed annually on September 3. This day marks not only a triumph of resilience and unity but also a moment to honor the sacrifices made and to draw lessons for a peaceful future.
In the 1930s, Japan launched an aggressive campaign against China, initiating conflicts such as the September 18 Incident (九一八事變) in 1931 and the Marco Polo Bridge Incident (盧溝橋事變) in 1937. These events sparked a full-scale invasion, plunging China into a war that tested the spirit of the Chinese nation. The Chinese people, united as one, stood firm against this aggression. Their resistance became a defining moment in modern Chinese history and a crucial part of the global fight against fascism during World War II.
The Chinese People’s War of Resistance was the longest, largest, and most sacrificial struggle against foreign invasion in modern Chinese history. It was also the first time China achieved a complete victory in a war of national liberation. This victory was not just a military success but a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Chinese people.
On September 2, 1945, aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, representatives of the Allied nations, including China, accepted Japan’s unconditional surrender. The following day, September 3, became a symbol of victory and resilience. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the government designated September 3 as the Victory Day of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.
Since 2014, this date has been officially recognized across the country, including in Hong Kong, with commemorative events held to honor those who sacrificed for peace. This day is not about holding onto hatred. It is about remembering the cost of war, the value of peace, and the strength of a united people. It reminds us to learn from history, to cherish the peace we enjoy today, and to remain alerted in protecting it.
If you take a look of the school mural in open playground, it reminds us the message of beatitude. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus said:
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” This verse reminds us that peace is not passive—it is a calling. The peacemakers are those who stand firm in bringing peace in conflicts, or in the difficult and divided situations that we are staying, we still choose healing over revenge, unity over division. The victory we commemorate today was not just a military success—it was a step toward rebuilding a nation and restoring peace.
Let us honor this day by committing ourselves to be peacemakers in our own lives. May we carry forward the legacy of those who fought—not with anger, but with humility, compassion, and a deep respect for peace.
Mr. Kwan YW