ASIA/THAILAND - Missionaries recognized for years of commitment to the poor

Bangkok (Agenzia Fides) - They are Italian religious who have been living for decades in Thailand, dedicating their lives to evangelizing this land: Sr. Esterina Prando and Sr. Nadia Ferro, Salesian Sisters; Fr. Giovanni Zimbaldi, PIME; Fr. Ferdinando Ronconi, Euntes missionary; and Fr. Giovanni Contarin, Camillian, all received recognition as “Ladies and Gentlemen of the Order of the Star and Solidarity,” from the Italian Republic, in a celebration held in Bangkok.
In the ceremony, the Italian Ambassador to Thailand, Ignazio Di Pace, recognized how these missionaries had offered their own lives for the Thai people, without distinction of gender, race, culture, or religion. They have acted out of respect for human dignity, above all, for the poor, the marginalized, and the needy, and they have contributed to an improvement in the quality of life for thousands of people.
Speaking on behalf of the missionaries, Fr. Giovanni Zimbaldi recalled the fact that every missionary is called to bring the Good News of Christ’s love to others, caring for their material and spiritual needs. “Every missionary should preach and carry out acts of charity,” he said, explaining that this was what had given birth to the many initiatives that exist at the service of those in need.
Among those present in the awards ceremony were Cardinal Michael Michai Kitbunchu, Archbishop of Bangkok, the Apostolic Nuncio Msgr. Salvatore Pennacchio, and the provincial superiors of the various religious congregations. The Cardinal, on behalf of the entire Church in Thailand, expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the missionaries present and to all those who work in Thailand in contributing to the evangelization effort and for the good of the people there. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 6/3/2008; righe 22, parole 275)