Lunar New Year of the Horse (II)
Let the party begin
A lively, traditional party started in earnest in the Hall with a lion dance. The troupe made very sure that the first act was to bow in veneration to the Crucifix on the wall.
The drum beat and the clanging sound of the cymbals made sure the lion was stirred from its stupor and everyone, old and young alike, gasped in wonderment how well the amateur dancer
performed. Everyone joined in, even Canon John and Deacon Peter had a go at beating the drum.
Next came the solving of the riddles – a subtle and witty quiz game that has been enjoyed for thousands of years. Even here, we inserted riddles that have biblical connections, in addition to proverbs and names of places in Hong Kong familiar to a lot of those at the party. This was in keeping with our determination that cultural traditions can and do blend effortlessly with our Catholic Faith.
We had a collective calligraphy session to remind ourselves of this ancient and beautiful art and to inculcate in the younger generations the value of our culture. Sadly, many of the children who immigrated four years ago have started to lose their linguistic and other unique cultural sense and ability. One of the reasons why we insist on organising regular Cantonese Mass and rites, against all odds sometimes.
We are especially grateful to Bishop Peter Collins for his support. We treasure Canon John’s care and pastoral zeal over these years, and we are equally grateful to very many parish priests throughout the Diocese; Vicar General Canon David Bagstaff and Mgr. Eugene Harkness, the Chancellor who help visiting Hong Kong clergy to obtain their faculty of priestly ministry. There are other priests, too many to mention in this space, who help us to integrate into parish life, yet encouraging us to keep our unique affinity and identification with all things liturgical in Cantonese. As the Hong Kong Catholic Diocese celebrates its 80th anniversary of its erection, such generous help carries a special meaning.
The day ended with a Cantonese song, specially composed by one of our talented musicians, about the
blessings that we all receive from God every day.
As we left for home, tired with excitement, we went away with the thought that a horse might be powerful, strong, and independent, without a rider, it will be of no consequence. God alone is the Lord with the power and the glory.
God willing, we look forward to celebrating the Year of the Goat (2027) in style and boundless joy!
Dominic Chung
on behalf of the Cantonese Chaplaincy RCDEA
03 March 2026 Back