Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Hong Kong (Agenzia Fides) – The Christian leaders of Hong Kong asked all citizens, on the eve of Chinese New Year, to consider solidarity, sharing, the sense of appreciation and the importance of being united, as the most important elements of the festivity, which is occurring amidst the global financial crisis. The leaders of the Christian Churches had already told the faithful, in their Christmas message, not to consider happiness as a result of consumerism. According to a report in the Kong Ko Bao (the Chinese version of the diocesan bulletin), various Christian communities took an active approach and made an effort to spread information on the true meaning of New Year, especially the Catholic perspective.
Fr. Joseph Ha, OFM, pastor of Queen of the Angels Parish, explained their initiative. “We have the tradition of going to visit the sick and elderly who are alone at New Year's. This year, we only held simple tea party instead of the traditional banquet, but everyone was just as content. Because the meaning of the feast of the Chinese New Year is to gather together and thank the Lord, and there is no need to spend a ton of money.” In addition “we also handed out fliers asking everyone to care for tose around them, to lend a hand to those in need, and to go to Church to thank the Lord for another year. The people should understand the difference between what is necessary and what only satisfies a whim.” The Executive Secretary of the Center for Faith Study said that “the return to simplicity is not only a good thing, but it is also a means to responding to the current crisis.” The “Public Soup Kitchen” of the Anglican community, which gives food to those in need, distributed a food package to 4,500 families in need.” (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 26/01/2009)
