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Welcome to HCA
French Bishop Charles de Forbin-Janson founded the Holy Childhood Association in 1843. Deeply affected by the distress of Chinese children abandoned in the streets, he was moved to found a society similar to the Propagation of the Faith -- but for children. He was convinced that children, rich in faith and love, are capable of playing their own part in the Church's mission - and even of stirring adults to show the same generous spirit.
The response to Bishop Forbin-Janson's appeal was extraordinary. In a few years, the unique concept of "children helping children" spread not only throughout his native France, but all over Europe, then to North America, Latin America and Asia, and in the last 40 years, to Africa.  

Fr. Patrick Byrne, SVD, is the recently retired Secretary General for the Holy Childhood Association, worldwide.  His work took him from his office at the Vatican to HCA funded projects all over the mission world. Fr. Pat believes all children can benefit from missionary spirit fostered by the programs of the Holy Childhood Association no matter where they live.