Good health, end to coronavirus pandemic in Year of the Tiger are top wishes of worshippers at Hong Kong’s Che Kung Temple
- More than 16,600 people visit temple in Sha Tin from 8am to 5.30pm, many of them praying for an end to the pandemic
- Long lines of worshippers form outside, as people wait to offer incense sticks, turn brass ‘wheel of fortune’ or buy pinwheels for good luck
The Chinese Temples Committee, which manages the site, on Thursday said 16,642 people visited from 8am to 5.30pm, many of them praying for an end to the pandemic in the Year of the Tiger and preferring the blessings of Che Kung – a Song dynasty general turned deity – to social distancing and avoiding big crowds.
“I hope to be healthy, which is the most important thing, and for the pandemic to pass soon. This is what the public wishes for,” said a visitor named Lee, holding a pinwheel to bring good luck.
Another woman surnamed Ho, who had not been to the temple for years, had the same hopes.
“There is no place to go because of the pandemic. I cannot go on trips or to other places. The best thing to do is to worship God,” she said. “I hope the epidemic will pass soon, and most importantly, everything will go well at work for everyone.”
An elderly man surnamed Chan prayed for his family to be safe and well.
“I wish for my grandson to grow up fast and strong, and listen to our teachings. And that the pandemic in Hong Kong will end as soon as possible,” he said.