King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand has joined world leaders in paying tribute to Pope Francis, describing the late pontiff as a moral beacon whose compassion and humility left a lasting impression on the Thai people.
In a formal message of condolence, the king recalled their 2019 meeting in Bangkok as a moment that “deeply moved” him and Queen Suthida, calling the Pope’s passing “a profound loss to humanity.”
The message, sent Wednesday to Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals, expressed the Thai royal family’s sorrow over the death of a spiritual leader revered across cultures and religions.
“The Queen and I are deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a figure revered globally and deeply respected by the Thai people,” the message read.
The king reflected on the apostolic visit of Pope Francis to Thailand in November 2019—a historic occasion that he said left an indelible mark on the nation.
He praised the pontiff’s humility, compassion, and moral leadership, noting how the Pope’s presence resonated with people from all walks of life.
During their private audience in Bangkok, the king and queen were profoundly moved by the Pope’s wisdom and spiritual presence.
The monarch described the experience as unforgettable, calling the Pope’s life “a beacon of faith, hope, peace, and virtue.”
The royal message emphasized that Pope Francis would be remembered in Thailand not only as the leader of the Catholic Church but as a man of deep humanity and unwavering compassion.
“Even in eternity,” the king added, “we are confident he will continue to keep Thailand in his prayers.”
Nation joins in grief
Thailand’s Buddhist Supreme Patriarch also issued a statement of condolence on Wednesday, recalling the Pope’s visit in 2019 as a milestone in interfaith dialogue.
In a message marked by spiritual depth, the Supreme Patriarch honored Pope Francis as “a guiding beacon to monastics, seekers, and peacemakers across humanity, enduring until the end of time.”
Farewell in Rome
At the Vatican, preparations are underway for Pope Francis’s funeral. On Wednesday morning, his body was transferred in a solemn procession from Casa Santa Marta, his residence, to St. Peter’s Basilica.
Inside the basilica, the pontiff now lies in state before Saturday’s funeral. His simple wooden coffin rests before the tomb of St. Peter, as cardinals, clergy, and members of the public pay their final respects.
By Wednesday afternoon, Vatican officials reported that more than 20,000 people had filed past the Pope’s remains, with mourners continuing to arrive late into the night.
In accordance with his wishes, Pope Francis requested a modest funeral, choosing a plain wooden coffin over the traditional triple casket—an expression of the simplicity that defined his life and ministry.
Thailand’s cardinals join the farewell
Thailand’s Cardinal Francis Xavier Kriengsak Kovithavanij is among the 135 cardinal electors who will soon convene in conclave to choose the next pope.
Cardinal Michael Michai Kitbunchu, the first Thai cardinal and now aged 96, has departed Bangkok for Rome to attend the funeral. A respected figure in the Asian Church, he is the most senior living cardinal taking part in the final rites.
Bridge-builder
Pope Francis’s 2019 apostolic visit to Thailand marked a significant moment in the country’s interreligious relations. The visit included meetings with Buddhist leaders, government officials, and members of the Catholic community.
The royal tribute acknowledged the impact of that encounter and the relationship built during his papacy. The king’s message cited mutual respect and the significance of the Pope’s presence in fostering dialogue across religious and cultural lines.
