By Xinming Li, bostonese.com
Boston, Feb. 22, 2018, — On Sunday, Feb. 18, Cardinal Sean O’Malley went to St. James the Greater Church in Chinatown to bring New Year’s greetings to the Boston Chinese Catholic community. The Year of Dog started on Feb. 16 on the Chinese calendar, which is one of the oldest calendars in the world.
“I also took occasion of my visit to bless the renovations in the church.image008image002 Father Kevin O’Leary (in the red vestments) was the principal concelebrant, but we were also joined by a number of the priests who serve the Chinese Catholic community of Boston, which continues to grow.” wrote Cardinal Sean O’Malley in his blog.
Peter Chan, a well-known member of the Chinese Catholic community，said: “Due to a prior commitment later that day in Malden we were honored by & thankful to Cardinal Sean O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston for coming to part of our Mass. His Chinese New Year greetings were warm, inspiring & gave thanks to God and to our parish & the Boston Chinese Catholic Community. He also blessed the new floor on the Upper Church. ”
After the con-celebrated Mass presided by Administrator Fr. Kevin O’Leary, a festive program was held in the Church Hall, with joy, love, drums, lion dancing, delicious Chinese New Year pastries, food, laugh, smile, sharing of new & old memories, traditions, friendships, etc.
Boston City Councilor Edward Flynn also came to the Mass to offer his prayers & support. His father Raymond Flynn is a former Mayor of Boston and U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican. Mr. Flynn was elected to Boston City Council in Nov. 2017, representing the second district which includes Chinatown.