The Full Moon for ALL Creatures of God. By Dr. Chapman Chen

Today, as the moon rises in her fullest splendour, families across East Asia gather to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival (中秋節) — a time of family reunion, symbolised by the roundness of the moon and the mooncakes we share. Yet as we cherish this romantic festival of togetherness, let us remember that animals, too, have families and long for one another’s company.

To celebrate truly in the spirit of reunion, let us go vegan and refuse to tear animal families apart. In the dairy industry, for instance, calves are taken from their mothers soon after birth so that humans can consume the milk meant for them. The mothers often cry in anguish for days or even weeks. Male calves, unable to produce milk, are frequently shot dead or sold for veal. Similarly, piglets are slaughtered at about six months old, lambs at only three to eight months, and broiler chickens at just six to seven weeks — all while they are still babies.

The light of the full moon, however, shines upon every creature on earth without discrimination. It is a radiant symbol of God’s all-embracing love, encompassing every living being under heaven. Theologically speaking, we and other animals belong to the same divine family, for we all come from the same parent-God, the Source of Life.

In the ancient legend associated with this festival, Queen Sheung Or (嫦娥) ascends to the moon, leaving behind a world steeped in greed, corruption, and violence. Her flight can be seen as a parable of spiritual transcendence — a longing to rise above the cruelty and bloodshed that defile the earth. In the same spirit, humanity today is called to ascend morally and spiritually by renouncing the exploitation of animals and living in harmony with all creation.

In the name of Christ, who proclaimed, “I desire compassion, not sacrifice” (Matthew 9:13; 12:7; cf. Hosea 6:6), let us reconcile and reunite with all of God’s innocent creatures. On this festival of love and reunion, may we extend our circle of compassion to embrace every sentient being illuminated by the moon’s gentle light. #VeganChrist #VeganTheology #VeganGod #VeganChurch

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