Thai Catholics are one of the smallest Asian communities in the country, forming a mere 0.43% of the entire population. And yet in recent years, Christmastime has become a means for evagelization, gathering the interests of others in society. In various communities, fun activities are organized (building nativity scenes, decorating Christmas trees, raffles, etc.) to celebrate Jesus's birth.
One of the most interesting festivities is the Great Star Procession, during which the story of the Nativity is re-enacted and accompanied by tradition Christmas music. The event is organized by the archdiocese of Tharae-Nongsaeng in collaboration with Sakhon Nakhon's Government Council on Culture.
For over 10 years in Bangkok, where the most wealthy Catholics live, the Catholic community has been raising funds to be sent as a Christmas gift to the northern dioceses of Chieng Mai, which is inhabited by impoverished hill tribes. It is thanks to this gift that young people in the dioceses are able to have food to eat throughout the year.
Fr. Phibul Visitnonthachai, director of the Bangkok-based Thai Caritas (COERS), has organized Christmas festivities for poor people living in the shanty towns near the capital. Dozens of Buddhist students will also attend the festive events.
As a build up to the festivities various choirs are organizing house-to-house visits to families, sharing with them their Christmas joy.(WK)