The Asian Catholic community of the Diocese of Cleveland joined for Mass and the annual Asian gathering Oct. 2 at St. Clarence Church in North Olmsted.
Members of the Indian, Chinese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, Sri Lankan and Japanese communities attended Mass, many in their colorful native clothing. Gongs signaled the start of Mass. Traditions of the various cultures, including a special incense ceremony by representatives of the Vietnamese community, were incorporated into the liturgy. Readings were proclaimed in various Asian languages. A choir, soloists and musicians from the Asian communities also performed during the liturgy.
Auxiliary Bishop Roger Gries was the main celebrant. Concelebrants were Fathers Simon Hoang Minh Dao, CMC; Ben Jimenez, SJ; Kiran Kumra, O.deM; Augustine Pham van Lam; Guillermo Rubillos and Albert Veigas. All have ties to the Asian community. Deacon Charles Shin assisted and Deacon Robert Sabol was master of ceremonies.
Offertory gifts were presented by representatives of the various nationalities. Banners representing the Asian communities were displayed in front of the church, along with a large banner portraying St. Mother Theresa of Calcutta, who was canonized last month.
?It seems like Pentecost with all the languages today,? said Bishop Gries. His homily focused on God?s mercy and how God listens
