Some years ago, during a Mandarin Fellowship gathering, the question was asked, “How
can we faithfully celebrate the lunar new year as Christians?” For the person asking the
question, there were many cultural practices surrounding the holiday that seemed in conflict
with Christian values and teachings. Do we, for example, as Christians greet one another
with the common words, “Gong hei fat choi” (may you prosper in wealth) or might there be
more faith-filled greetings to be used? The discussion that ensued was rich and engaging.
Below are some suggestions for how to think about this important cultural holiday as an important
part of our heritage and faith
A Christian Celebration of Lunar New Year
[From The Methodist Church in Singapore - http://www.methodist.org.sg]
Lunar New Year is the most important point on the Chinese calendar. The beginning of the lunar year has symbolized the act of starting over with renewed hopes for happiness and prosperity. It is also a time to renew ties with family and friends, through family reunion dinners and social visits.
Chinese and many other Asian Christians continue to celebrate the New Year so as to maintain their ethnic identity. But while the celebration was traditionally marked by a religious ceremony in honor of Heaven and Earth, the household gods and ancestors, Chinese Christians will celebrate the event from the perspective
of their faith in Christ.
Christian interpretations have been given to many of the traditional symbols associated with Chinese New Year.
House Cleaning: It is a good time for Christians to evaluate their lives in light of their commitment to Christ.
Spring Couplet: The traditional practice of displaying couplets or pairs of auspicious characters at the doorways is reintroduced among Christians by putting up Christian messages.
New Clothes: This can be an opportunity for giving thanks for God’s abundant provisions (Romans 5:17).
Feasting: While over-indulging these few days remember that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, so do not abuse it. Also remember the Christian virtue of hospitality, especially for those who have less or are struggling (James 1:27)
Oranges: Oranges are exchanged as a blessing for prosperity, because the Cantonese word for orange” sounds like gold. Christians are reminded that gold also symbolizes a genuine faith (1 Peter 1:7).
Red Envelopes: As gifts are given both to those below and above us in status, it is good to remember those who have served us faithfully, and also the Lord, to whom ultimate respect is due (Exodus 20:3).
Ancestors: While Chinese Christians will worship the one true God rather than their ancestors, that hardly means that they dishonor or neglect their family ancestors or even the ancestors of the faith. Scripture clearly calls us to respect those who came before us, and to honor our parents (Exodus 20:12).
Lunar New Year Prayer
Almighty God, we thank you for the Lunar New Year celebrations. The annual family gatherings help us cement our family ties. We thank you for our family ancestors and spiritual ancestors. Creator, give us the boldness to witness to our family and friends as we meet them during this festive season. O God, help
us to obey you in thoughts and in deeds, that we may please you in all our ways.
In the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus. Amen. (prayer from CAC NEWS, January 2006, used by permission)