Ancient tradition comes to Maple Grove

Despite frigid temperatures and high winds, about 40 people gathered at historic Maple Grove Cemetery in Kew Gardens recently, for the first-ever Queens observation of Ching Ming, the 3000-year-old Chinese tradition of cemetery visitation, according to organizers.
The idea was conceived by Fred Fu of the Flushing Development Center, Maple Grove President Linda Mayo-Perez and Borough President Helen Marshall’s office.
According to Fu, “Thanksgiving is the only traditional celebration that started in the U.S.; all the others came from somewhere else.” He continued, “We hope it can become another American tradition.”
In opening remarks on Saturday, April 7 Perez told the gathering that the concept is reflected in the Kwanzaa ritual “Libation to the Ancestors” and other cultures, so that anyone could participate.
Mei Hua Ru, from City Councilmember John Liu’s office explained, “Ching Ming is a celebration of life - when we commemorate our ancestors, we remember how we got where we are, and how to proceed in life.”
Fruit and sweet cakes were provided, in line with the tradition’s joyous nature.
Zhao Zong Chun, chief player for the China Radio Orchestra, led a duet of Erhu, a traditional Chinese single-string fiddle, performing Chinese and Western music, from the poignant “Wan Chen Fun” (Missing in spring) and “Amazing Grace,” to the upbeat “Wabash Cannonball.”
During the performance, the gathering, formed into a circle and placed flowers, then incense sticks at a table, bowing each time in respect. After the contemplative music was concluded, they each wrote a message on a helium-filled balloon, which they all released, to mark the conclusion of the celebration.
The practice, which is intended to honor ancestors and foster a sense of human connection across the ages, is traditionally done by Chinese families worldwide on April 3.
In recognition of local culture, Fu said that he hoped to establish the first Saturday in April as the observation date. “People work during the week, and we want everyone, not just Chinese people to be able to experience this wonderful tradition.” Fu said.