A Pastoral Approach to the Mid-Autumn Festival

Having served the Church in Hong Kong and across the wider Far East for nearly two decades, in a setting where Orthodoxy is not part of the traditional life of local communities, I consider one question particularly important: how can we bear witness to Christ faithfully in accordance with the Gospel, while also showing love and respect for the culture of the people around us?

This question touches on family life, friendships, and relationships in the workplace. May an Orthodox Christian offer neighbours good wishes on a local festival? Accept a traditional sweet? Join a family meal with relatives and friends who do not share the same faith?

I approach these matters with seriousness and discernment. The purpose of pastoral care is to help people live their faith amid the actual circumstances of their lives, rather than leave them alone, caught between the fear of isolation and the anxiety of betraying Christ.

Respect for Culture, Faithfulness to the Gospel

The Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church (Crete, 2016) provides an important point of reference. In its document on the mission of the Church in today’s world, it emphasises that witness to the Gospel must be…