Saraburi Central Prison, located 130 kilometers north of Bangkok, was filled with hope and joy as 2,300 inmates participated in a special Liturgy of the Word led by Bishop Paul Tawat Singsa of the Nakhon Sawan on Dec. 17.
The event was graced by the Apostolic Nuncio to Thailand, Archbishop Peter Brian Wells, along with clergy, religious leaders, and a delegation from the Catholic Church.
“This gathering is not only a moment of spiritual connection but also an opportunity to provide essential goods to improve the well-being of the inmates,” said Fr. Rangsiphol Plianphan in an interview with LiCAS News.
During his address, Bishop Paul delivered a Christmas message to the incarcerated individuals, encouraging them to view their time in detention as a chance for personal growth and renewal.
“The prison is not your home. For those within these walls, strive to leave here better than when you came,” he urged, emphasizing the importance of transformation and hope. He concluded by wishing the inmates a blessed Christmas.
The ceremony ended with Bishop Paul, the Apostolic Nuncio, and the accompanying priests offering prayers and blessings for the inmates.
Christmas gifts, including books and cookies, were distributed as tokens of love and care. The bishop expressed his gratitude to the prison authorities for permitting the Diocese to conduct the liturgy and for facilitating the distribution of gifts.
The event was organized by United in Love, a church movement within the Nakhon Sawan Diocese aimed at fostering unity and mission participation, in collaboration with the Diocesan Committee for Prison Ministry. Participants joined in singing Christmas carols and offering prayers.
“We are here to unite with them and bring peace to their minds,” said Fr. Rangsiphol. “We want them to know they are not forgotten during this special season.”
