People normally come to the temple to give thanks to Tin Hau in November and December for Tin Hau's care during the year. Some people show their appreciation by donating cash and others will buy fuel for the temple's oil lamps. Some will drape the statue with necklaces and jewelry. One worshipper was particularly generous: “Mrs. Au gold-plated the face of the statue for Tin Hau saved her from cancer,” said Lau.

Lau makes her living mainly from donations, sales of joss sticks, joss paper and gold spirit money. Her main expenses are the electricity charges and the HK$10,000 annual rent she pays to the Heung Yee Kuk, the organisation which represents Hong Kong's indigenous villagers. “My income shrinks when the economy is poor,” said Lau.

“The most difficult part of her job,” Lau said, “was instructing people how to worship the god on his birthday and the day after.”  She said she often got no sleep for two consecutive days because so many people queue up to adore the god.

Though Lau's life is simple and routine, she doesn't find it boring. Sometimes neighbors come to visit and give her food. Sometimes she watches television although the set is often out of order.  She chats with the people visiting the temple. She is happy serving Tin Hau. 

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