On the first day of the Lunar New Year, the Church of the Divine Mercy celebrated the spring festival with great pomp.
The church was adorned with red lanterns and banners, symbolising prosperity and joy. Spring festival couplets displayed in the sanctuary read:
萬户同歌救主恩
千家共颂真神愛
Translated, they proclaim:
“Ten thousand households together singing the grace of the Saviour.
A thousand homes jointly praising the love of the true God.“
The festivities began at 9:30 AM with an energetic lion dance, captivating the congregation with graceful movements and rhythmic drumbeats. The atmosphere came alive with the crackling of firecrackers, marking the arrival of a new season of blessings.

Mass began thereafter. During his homily Fr. George pointed out that the year of the snake was all about shedding the bad energy and emerging as a caring, kind and God loving person. For all living things, spring is the time for renewal and growth. Likewise, we were to discard the bad and ugly of the past, and to become new persons for our good and the good of the church.
After Mass, the Rite of Commemoration of Ancestors was performed, honouring the values of filial piety and gratitude. To mark the occasion, Fr. George personally presented ang-paos to parishioners, while wardens distributed Mandarin oranges, symbolising good fortune and unity.

The church was filled to the brim with thousands of parishioners. Throughout the Mass, they were mesmerized by the melodious hymns sung to the traditional New Year tune.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the Chinese Apostolate, whose dedication and teamwork made this celebration successful. Their efforts truly reflect our parish’s spirit of faith, unity, and cultural heritage.
May this Lunar New Year bring abundant blessings, joy, and renewal to all!