Archdiocese celebrates annual Chinese New Year Mass

By Catholic San Francisco

The Archdiocesan Chinese Ministry hosted the annual Chinese New Year Mass on February 8, at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption. Following the Mass celebrated by Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone, a festive banquet was held at the Cathedral Event Center.

The Mass was bi-lingual with the readings and Prayers of the Faithful read in Chinese, and Chinese music woven throughout the liturgy.

In his homily, Archbishop Cordileone spoke on the theme of trusting in Divine Providence—especially as the Lunar New Year begins—drawing from St. Padre Pio’s famous quote of “Pray, hope and don’t worry.”

“This precise point of time in which we find ourselves right now is exemplative of what Divine Providence means to us,” said Archbishop Cordileone. “One year draws to a close in which we reflect back with thanksgiving for all that God has done for us, as a new year opens up to us in which we look forward with hope to God fulfilling His promises…Let us ask God to quicken within us the hope we need to trust in His goodness, wisdom and power, and to be at peace without worry for what tomorrow will bring.”

Following the Mass, the celebration continued with a banquet that featured traditional Chinese cuisine, music, and dance performances. The joyous atmosphere was a testament to the vibrant spirit of the Chinese Catholic community within the Archdiocese.

Photos: John Bartolome