The Apostolic Vicariate of Phnom Penh observed the Chinese New Year with a solemn Mass presided over by Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler on February 19. The Mass was held at St. Joseph’s Parish in Chrey Thom, Kandal Province, part of the Bassac Pastoral Center within the Apostolic Vicariate of Phnom Penh. The celebration drew a large number of faithful.
Reflecting on the Parable of the Talents in his homily, Bishop Olivier explained that God entrusts different gifts to each person. Those who receive much are expected to accomplish much, while those who receive less are called to respond faithfully according to what they have been given. He emphasized that Catholics must exercise great responsibility in using their spiritual gifts, fulfilling their duties, and carrying out their roles. He encouraged the faithful to serve with “all their ability, love, faith, and physical and mental strength” in everything they do.
The Bishop reminded the congregation that when a person gives their full effort, God will lift them up. However, if there is no growth—what he described as the “1 + 0 = 0” situation—it reveals insincerity, laziness, or a lack of dedication to service and love.
Drawing from the message of Pope Leo, he encouraged the faithful to listen attentively to the Word of God and to the cries of those who suffer. He also called for a meaningful kind of fasting: “fasting from gossip, fasting from criticism, and fasting from discouraging others with our tongues.” He urged the community to journey with Jesus Christ as renewed Christians, becoming faithful servants whom God will reward and look upon with favor.
On the occasion of the New Year, the Bishop prayed that God would bless the faithful with good health, steadfast faith, and the strength to live as Christians according to God’s will. Following the Mass, the celebration continued with a ceremonial wine toast and a traditional Lion Dance. The Bishop also distributed Ang Pao (red envelopes) to the faithful.
