Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez of Philadelphia has extended his greetings to the Asian Catholic community on the occasion of the Lunar New Year. In a letter addressed to the community, Archbishop Pérez expressed his "warm greetings and prayerful best wishes" as they celebrate the beginning of the Year of the Snake, which he described as "a traditional symbol of wisdom, elegance, and transformation."

The archbishop noted that this year's celebration coincides with the Universal Church’s Jubilee Year. He referenced Pope Francis's call for everyone to be "Pilgrims of Hope," encouraging renewal of heart and embodying Christ’s love through Missionary Discipleship. "May these occasions inspire us to seek constant renewal of heart in order to be a beacon of Christ’s compassionate love to those we encounter," he wrote.

Archbishop Pérez emphasized that this celebration is an opportunity for collective gratitude towards God for the "great gift and rich heritage" that the Asian community brings to both local and global churches.

He concluded his message with a blessing: "May God bless you abundantly always!"