Long Du Society membership rules

Long Du membership rules pages

Image Courtesy of: Kira Brown

Translation:

(Right page, vertical text, right to left)
When the benevolent association of the Lungdu community was first established, it was for the purpose of promoting mutual aid and charity among people from the same district, so that all might share in goodwill and righteousness.
The intention was to act with sincerity, to assist the needy, and to spread virtue. Members were encouraged to accumulate good deeds and compassion, for this would bring honour to themselves and their descendants. These regulations are therefore set forth so that later generations shall not forget the founding purpose.

(Left page, vertical text, right to left)
1. Every member shall contribute the sum of one silver dollar as the original capital of the society, the names to be recorded collectively in the main register.
2. The society’s funds shall be jointly managed and strengthened through unity. Any donations and profits shall be added to the capital, which shall never be diminished or misused.
3. Members may not transfer their shares or substitute others in their place.
4. When a fellow member or friend passes away, each member shall contribute one dollar to assist in funeral expenses, thereby fulfilling the duty of friendship and fraternity.
5. The aim of this society is to encourage benevolence and mutual aid among the people of Lungdu in Hong Kong, to perform good works, and to promote harmony and righteousness.

Side note (left margin):
Printed by the Hong Kong Lungdu Tung Shan Tong Benevolent Association Register
(香港隆都同善堂名份簿)