Ringing in the Lunar New Year

At 8 pm on Jan 24, Tian-Jin Temple celebrated the end of a lunar year with a night of traditional activities.

During a ceremony to thank the deities for a good past year, Master Chen lit the ceremonial papers on fire, and guests were surprised to see the burning papers resemble the shape of Chinese ingots, or ancient currency.

Following two ceremonies in one night, the temple rang in the new year with blessings from the legendary gods of fortune. Ferrero Rochers were handed out to all guests, starting first with children, as everyone excitedly prayed for a year full of fortune and good luck.