On May 19th, 1948, the first four missionaries arrived in Thailand, a land they knew little of in those days, yet they embarked on their journey with courage and determination. Seventy-five years later, we show our gratitude to the missionaries who brought the Redemptorist charism to Thailand. It is also a great occasion to appreciate those who came afterwards to continue strengthening the foundation and fulfilling its missions.
Throughout our 75 years in the Land of Smiles, the Redemptorists have been privileged to serve people and bring the Good News of our Redeemer in myriad ways, whether through parishes, school apostolates, social work, missions, various media, and more. It has been an honour for all Redemptorists in the Province of Thailand to journey with the people, especially those in need and most abandoned in society.
Our good works and successes are not solely derived from our efforts. We also express gratitude for our partners and supporters who have journeyed with us faithfully in good faith and service.
Reflecting on our history with pride, we thank God and Mother Mary for the many gifts and blessings throughout the years. We acknowledge our fruitful deeds and the good we have shared with so many lives in different ways and circumstances. Yet besides that, we also recognize our past failures and mistakes as we strive for them to not hinder continual improvement and growth as missionaries of Christ, the Redeemer.
Though the world has changed rapidly, the love and mercy of God remain the same. Looking ahead, we, as missionaries of hope, ought to be more courageous and creative in continuing our missions through this challenging period of humanity.
On this special occasion, we celebrated the 75th Anniversary of the Redemptorists in Thailand on August 1st with great honour as we had with us the Apostolic Nuncio to Thailand, Cardinal, Bishops, Priests, Religious, and lay people, including our Superior General, Fr. Rogerio Gomes and some confreres from South Korea, Philippines, and Malaysia-Singapore. We also celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Priesthood of Fr. Thanu and the 25th Anniversary of Religious Profession of Fr. Pongsak, Fr. Ekkaphon, and Fr. Chakrit. May God and Our Mother of Perpetual Help bless us to preach the Good News with more zeal and live out the life of Christ Jesus with more love.
Fr. Peter Jittapol Plangklang, C.Ss.R.
Provincial Superior
Province of Thailand
