Weena Kowitwanij

Since the dissolution of the Lower House, the Democrats have called for the premier's resignation and for constitutional reform. Thaksin Shinawatra has flatly turned down their requests and is pressing ahead alone.

Thaksin yesterday announced the dissolution of the government and parliament. However, protesters will take to the streets tomorrow too: his resignation is not enough, they want the former prime minister to quit politics for good. Thaksin has been accused of promoting personal interests rather than those of the state.

Christmas messages have been dispatched by Cardinal Kitbunchu and the Nuncio, Mgr Pennacchio. A chocolate Christmas tree 5.40m high has been made to promote a fund for tsunami victims.

Surat Thani bishop: "All Catholics are missionaries, proclaim Jesus with enthusiasm." Lay parishioners thronged to the event, it was like a "feast".

The Justice and Peace Commission of the Thai Bishops' Conference marked the Day for Peace and Human Rights, underscoring the importance "of reciprocal comprehension and social justice".

A workshop organised by the Federation of International Religious explains how to counter agencies that entice and exploit Thais for sex or work.

At a conference organised by the Bishops' Conference of Thailand, human rights activists and missionaries highlight the plight of Thai migrants abroad, who have to endure hunger, violence and abuse for little money.

At a conference promoted by the Episcopal Commission for Inter-faith and Cultural Dialogue, a Muslim scholar says violence in the southern part of the country is "political, not religious" in nature.

Inter-faith dialogue but also exchanges with the country's intellectuals are the bases of peaceful coexistence between Catholics and Buddhists.

Forty years after the Second Vatican Council, priests talk about the Church and the modern world in light of the Gaudium et Spes. Estrangement from faith is the main concern.

Catholic Youth Commission organised a field trip for 121 catholic youth, who were welcomed warmly and with enthusiasm by the residents of the five villages on the itinerary.

Throughout last century, the Buddhist monk was a paragon of Buddhist virtues such as tolerance and peace. He founded a monastery in the jungle open to every believer.