Celebrating faith, culture, and community at CNY

On Sunday, February 2nd, the NBVM/SCIC Mandarin Apostolate hosted a vibrant and joyful Chinese New Year luncheon at the Nativity Hall, a celebration of both the rich cultural traditions of the Chinese community and the shared faith of the Catholic parish.

As guests arrived at the Nativity Hall, they were warmly welcomed by the lively performance of lion dancers. The colourful costumes and energetic movements, accompanied by the rhythmic clanging of cymbals, filled the air with an unmistakable festive spirit.

The event began with an opening prayer led by Fr Dominic, who thanked God for His many blessings and asked for continued grace upon the parish in the year ahead. His words reminded the community that Chinese New Year is not only a time of cultural celebration but also an opportunity to reflect on the spiritual abundance and hope that comes from God.

A highlight of the afternoon was the traditional roast pig-cutting ceremony. Fr Dominic was joined by Fr Charles Chew, Br Daniel, Deacon Richard, Mr Michael H’ng, and other distinguished guests in performing this ceremonial act. Following that, the lion dancers took to the stage for a spirited performance that captivated the guests.

A central part of the celebration was the lou sang ceremony, a beloved Chinese tradition that symbolises unity and the sharing of good fortune. With chopsticks in hand, guests gathered around their tables to toss a colourful mixture of ingredients high into the air, each ingredient symbolic of a specific blessing for the New Year. As the ingredients were tossed in unison, the ritual embodied the collective hope for a year of prosperity, good health, and harmony.

After lunch, the emcees led the guests in a wine toasting ceremony, a moment for reflection and gratitude. Toasts were offered to God for His blessings, for our country, leaders, and the people, and for a strengthened faith to walk closer to God in this Jubilee Year of Hope.

As the event came to a close, a series of lucky draws added a touch of excitement and joy to the occasion. Lucky guests went home with ang pao and other gifts.KA

Please visit the link below for more photos:
https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipO2A4L4WGjyR2xtaQtXv9QFsQq8z2g2zYHVX4xzRau9mHXO8H41L2T_rZpYkWu5nA?pli=1&key=VzhxNXFWaEs0ckdOWWtGM1BVVzkxQXhoT3pLRGRR