This week, as Chinese New Year celebrations met the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday, Fr. Gerard reflects on how both seasons invite us to make a new start.

Chinese New Year reminds us of renewal through spring cleaning, reunion meals, family, and hospitality—finding joy in simple and meaningful relationships. Lent similarly calls us to declutter our lives and refocus through prayer, penance, and almsgiving (The 3 pillars of Lent).

Reflecting on the story of Adam and Eve, Fr. Gerard reminds us that we know the difference between good and evil and that our choices matter. Our actions affect others. Like Jesus in the desert, we face temptations and must decide what we truly value.

Feasting and fasting, red packets and ashes, are not mere rituals. They challenge us to reflect on what we truly believe and to live lives of conversion, change, and transformation.

- Sunday Homily by Fr. Gerard Louis, C.Ss.R. (22 February 2026)