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“Dear Brothers and Sisters in the Asian Catholic Community,

I extend warm greetings and prayerful best wishes as you mark the beginning of the Lunar New Year. This joyous occasion marks the Year of the Horse, symbolizing intense forward momentum toward transformation.

This particular Lunar New Year comes at a time of renewal in the Catholic Church of Philadelphia, as we embrace the call to Missionary Discipleship as one part of the Trust and Hope initiative. May the fifteen days of this Lunar New Year, culminating in the annual Lantern Festival, inspire us all to seek constant renewal of our hearts in order to be a beacon of Christ’s compassionate love to those we encounter. As you celebrate the Lunar New Year, may your lives be filled with joy and prosperity.

This celebration is a moment for all of us to praise God in thanksgiving for the great gift and rich heritage of the Asian community in our local Church and throughout the world.

May God bless you abundantly always!”

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia