Autumn Praying Festival 2011

《慎终追远》
shen(4) zong(1) zhui(1) yuan(3)
by Confucius

Definition: 慎终: to think in-depth the meaning of life as a being; 追远：to think of what are the values our predecessors have left for us - moral teachings to be learnt and practised.

This verse, which is displayed prominently near the entrance of Kwong Wai Siew Peck San Theng, refers to remembering the good deeds our ancestors have done and to continue that kind of practises to become a moral being. Such gesture of goodwill has been inculcated in the traditional Chinese custom of ancestor worship and performed for many many years. Certainly, there is a religious element in performing the praying ritual. But, the key purpose of the paying respect to the ancestors is to serve as a time where all family members gather to reaffirm and foster the kinship amongst themselves. And for our clan association, it is one of the key events annually to pay respect and foster strong communal ties amongst our members, a tradition which was passed down since our troupe's establishment in 1920.

This event, part of the Spring and Autumn Praying Festival, is different from the rest of the activities that we often have as it is solemn and most in touch with the tradition of our clan association. Amidst the praying ritual, our younger generation were informed on the values this event has in continuing the Chinese tradition of filial piety and respect towards the old on one hand, and learning the ethics and values to be a better person. It has been one of the memorable event every year for us youths as we always learn something new whenever we come to Peck San Theng for the event.

On a lighter note, we also celebrated our Clan Association's 72th, Troupe's 92nd, Women's Wing's 5th and Youth Wing's and Blog's 3rd anniversary with a dinner reception held on the same night at the main hall. As we approach to close to a century old amidst the fast-paced modern society, we will continue to stay relevant and meaningful to the society with the promotion of our clan association's own distinct Chinese culture and values!