As January draws to a close, the Lunar New Year brings its spirit of renewal, gratitude, and family unity to communities across the world.
In Ann Arbor, Michigan, St. Thomas the Apostle Parish is gearing up to host a special celebration of this cherished festival for its vibrant Chinese Catholic community.
Father John Yongli Chen, a dedicated pastor with a remarkable story, will lead the festivities.
On February 3, he will celebrate an evening Mass in Mandarin, followed by a dinner and traditional Chinese music, blending faith and culture in a joyous union.
Honoring Traditions with Faith
The Lunar New Year, a 15-day celebration rooted in Chinese culture, is marked by symbolic traditions like zodiac animals, family gatherings, and prayers for loved ones.
For many Chinese Catholics, it’s a time to give thanks to God.
Father Chen, currently serving as the pastor of St. Ann Parish in Ortonville, was invited by Father William Ashbaugh of St. Thomas to celebrate this special Mass.
The event will also incorporate unique elements of Chinese tradition, showcasing the blend of cultural heritage and religious devotion.
A Journey of Faith and Perseverance
Father Chen’s journey to Ann Arbor is a testament to his resilience and faith.
Born and raised in China’s Xinjiang province, Chen grew up in a devout Catholic family despite the scarcity of churches.
His family worshipped at home and celebrated Mass in makeshift “house churches” several times a year.
After completing his seminary studies in Xinjiang and Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, he earned a doctorate in theology from St. Paul University in Ottawa.
His academic journey was accompanied by trials, including government persecution in China, where he resisted communist mandates that conflicted with his faith.
Reflecting on his experiences, Chen said, “I came from a place where practicing religion was a challenge, but those challenges strengthened my faith.
I want to share that strength and hope with others.”
Building Bridges in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor’s thriving Chinese community, bolstered by the University of Michigan’s international presence, has found a welcoming home at St. Thomas Parish.
Last year, the parish launched an Alpha course to introduce newcomers to Catholicism, which Father Chen also attended.
Parishioner Monica Cai, whose family has long celebrated the Lunar New Year with Christian traditions, praised the sense of connection this initiative has brought.
“We didn’t know many Chinese Catholics before.
Now, we’ve built relationships that feel like a treasure trove,” she shared.
A Celebration for All
The Lunar New Year Mass at St. Thomas reflects the broader inclusivity of the festival.
Communities across the U.S., including Chinese and Vietnamese expatriates, honor the occasion with parades, feasting, and family reunions.
This year, the Year of the Snake adds another layer of cultural symbolism to the festivities.
For Ann Arbor’s Chinese Catholics, the upcoming Mass is more than a celebration—it’s a testament to the resilience of faith, the richness of cultural heritage, and the power of community.
As Father Chen and the parish prepare for this meaningful gathering, they remind us that celebrations like these are a bridge between past and present, faith and tradition, and people from all walks of life.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn