A Joyful Chinese New Year Gathering
The Mandarin Apostolate of our parish gathered in joy for the 2026 Chinese New Year Fellowship Lunch, a celebration marked by gratitude, culture, and unity.
The afternoon began with a lively lion dance performance. In Chinese tradition, the lion dance symbolises strength, courage, and the driving away of misfortune. Accompanied by rhythmic movements and beating drums, it marks new beginnings and blessings for the year ahead. For us as Christians, it also serves as a reminder that fear does not have the final word. We are called to move forward with trust in God, confident that light overcomes darkness.
The tossing of loh sang followed, drawing everyone into a shared moment of joy. As the ingredients were lifted together, wishes for peace, health, and blessings filled the room. Beyond the tradition, it reflected something essential about community. Joy is not meant to be kept to ourselves. It grows when it is shared.
The cutting of the roast pigs marked another familiar Chinese New Year tradition, symbolising abundance, thanksgiving, and the sharing of blessings. The celebration also included a lucky draw, with ang pows given out as gifts. It added to the joy of the afternoon and reflected the spirit of generosity that marks the New Year.
What stood out was the openness of the gathering. While rooted in Chinese culture, the celebration warmly welcomed parishioners of all races and backgrounds. Conversations flowed easily across tables, laughter was shared, and differences faded into the background. What remained was a strong sense of belonging, a quiet yet clear expression of the Church as one family.
In this way, the Fellowship Lunch became a small but meaningful reflection of the Year of Peace 2026. Peace was not spoken about at length, but experienced through welcome, shared food, and simple moments of connection.
The afternoon reminded us that culture can be a bridge, faith can be a foundation, and community can be a witness. May the joy shared at this gathering continue to bear fruit throughout the year, inspiring us to build peace, foster unity, and welcome one another with open hearts.
May this New Year be one of renewed hope, deeper understanding, and lasting peace for all. (BV)
