Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangkok (Agenzia Fides) – Celebrations, commemorations, prayers, and a commemorative book and DVD. These are the activities that the Church in Thailand has organized in honor of the 25th anniversary of John Paul II's Pastoral Visit to Thailand in May 1984.
The celebrations began on May 10 and concluded today, May 14, in a joint effort from the Apostolic Nunciature, the state authorities, the Bishops of Thailand, priests, religious, and thousands of Catholics and even non-Christians who have wished to participate in the various commemorative events of the Holy Father's visit to Thailand. The celebration, which took place in Assumption Cathedral in Bangkok, in a Mass presided by Cardinal Joseph Zen, special envoy of the Holy Father Benedict XVI, featured the inauguration of two statues in the entrance of the Cathedral, one of Saint Peter and the other of John Paul II.
A photo exposition was also opened, showing the various stops along the Pope's trip to Thailand. The Church in Thailand has also wished to remember John Paul II with a new clinic dedicated in his name, which will offer services free-of-charge to needy patients.
A book and DVD gift was also distributed for the celebration, featuring images of the trip. There is both an English and Thai version. The Catholic weekly “Udomsarn” published a special commemorative issue for the event, which they said “will always remain in the hearts of the Thai people.” Catholics are only 0.5% of the population of 63 million. For coin collectors, a special bronze metal has been casted to commemorate the occasion. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 14/5/2009)
