Celebrating the Chinese New Year in Richmond
Chinese worshippers around the world made their way to Buddhist temples to usher in the Year of the Dragon. In Richmond, B.C., after midnight Chinese Buddhists from around the lower mainland flocked to pray at Guan-Yin Temple to ensure the coming year is a good one. Under the Chinese Zodiac calendar the dragon is the most powerful animal and for many Chinese this year is considered to be the luckiest of the 12-year cycle. Globe and Mail staff photographer John Lehmann captures the believers as they offer prayers for the new year.
Worshippers flock to the International Buddhist Temple in Richmond, B.C. to pray for a happy and prosperous New Year.
The Laughing Buddha of happiness greets worshippers.
Worshippers add their joss sticks to the cauldron.
Worshippers pray to the the Maitreya Buddha, or the future Buddha.
Worshippers light their joss sticks.