Sharing Basin Cuisine!

What better way is there to celebrate the Lunar New Year than by serving our neighbours with a Poon Choi feast. None of them had celebrated in this way before.

Roughly translated, Poon Choi means 'big bowl feast' or some see it as 'basin cuisine'. It is basically layers of meats and seafood served in a large basin. It is a dish that is meant to be enjoyed communally. We thought this meal was symbolic of this festive season and a wonderful way to celebrate with family and friends.

A total 252 guests came from surrounding housing estates. They included single elderly people as well as low-income families. As you can imagine, the room was full of happy faces! Traditional Chinese music, and an appearance by a balloon artist added a festive note! Our sponsors and Gary Tang, our Head of Humanitarian and Social Services, delivered a message that touched the hearts of our guests.

One guest was a 75-year-old man named Ah Chin. He is a resident of Kai Yip Estate, and lives on a monthly income of HKD 6,065. This money, which is earned by his wife in a part-time job, barely covers their expenses. Extravagant meals and fancy venues have never been their experience, so the Poon Choi feast was a very special treat. The people at their table were friends and neighbours from the housing estates. None of them had previously been to a high-class restaurant.

All the guests were thrilled to receive the gift of a bag of rice. The event made me so happy that we are able to work with the elderly community and make a difference in their lives.

I pray that Christian Action will always give the underprivileged reasons to celebrate together. God has created us to live in community, and to serve each other, so I hope we will continue to serve the people around us who have not had the privileges so many of us continue take for granted.