St. Paul’s L’Amoreaux Centre celebrated the Chinese New year, the year of the Ox, with multicultural seniors and members of the community on Friday January 30th. More than 200 people, including politicians the Honourable Jim Karygiannis M.P. and Councilor Norm Kelly, attended the event. Wilson Chiu, the Recreation Supervisor of St. Paul’s stated “The goal of the annual celebration is not only for the Chinese community to celebrate , but also to enhance relations among multicultural communities by introducing an important Chinese culture and custom.”
The 3-hour event featured a Lion Dance, Chinese music and dance, new year songs, a children’s choir and games regarding customs & myths as well as a sampling of Chinese New Year snacks and refreshments. The Fortune God distributed lucky red envelopes to the guests presents by the St. Paul’s Chinese and non-Chinese staff who dressed as historical characters parade.
The symbolism behind the activities is not only about performing a custom, but rather the belief that these practices bring the happiness of Chinese New Year to young and old alike, regardless of race.
The followings are some new year customs sharing during Chinese New Year. Chinese wear new clothes and go to their relatives to pay respect with presents. When people meet, they greet each other with seasonal expressions, for example, Kung hei fat choi--Wishing you a wealthy year (Cantonese), or Long ma jing shen--wishing you a healthy year (Mandarin). Married couples and seniors will put money in a red envelop and give it to singles and children.
Enjoying fire crackers is a common activity during Chinese New year. The original intention was to set off fire crackers to ward off evil spirits, and later became a festive holiday activity. The Lion Dance and Dragon dance are also performed at New Year celebrations. The Lions ward off bad luck and keep participants safe for the year.
2009 marks the year of the Ox (coinciding with the years 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997). There are 12 signs of animals for the year and a cycle is every 12 years. The other astrological signs are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Boar. The Ox represents hardworking and dedication in Chinese culture.
Kung hei fat choi.
