Archbishop Vira Arpondratana, ‘Pilgrims of hope’ in Bangkok
The Thai capital’s new archbishop makes his official entry at the Cathedral of the Assumption. He thanked Cardinals Michael Michai Kitbunchu and Francis Xavier Kriengsak Kovithavanij who were present at the ceremony, and urged the faithful to “walk together” and bring “the joyful proclamation of the Gospel to all.”
Bangkok (AsiaNews) – The Catholic Church in Bangkok officially welcomed its new archbishop yesterday, Mgr Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana, 69, former bishop of Chiang Mai, who was appointed by Pope Francis on 11 January.
The celebration took place in the Cathedral of the Assumption in the presence of his two predecessors – Cardinals Michael Michai Kitbunchu and Francis Xavier Kriengsak Kovithavanij – as well as diocesan clergy, authorities and representatives of other religious groups present in the Thai capital.
For Archbishop Vira Arpondratana, this is a return to the archdiocese where he was ordained into the priesthood 44 years ago, which Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Peter Brian Wells highlighted as a blessing in his greetings.
The Holy See representative praised Archbishop Arpondratana's dedication and service as bishop of Chiang Mai, emphasising his commitment to the poor and the marginalised.
“Your experiences have prepared you well for the responsibilities ahead,” the nuncio said, urging him to follow the missionary zeal of his namesake, Saint Francis Xavier.
The motto of the new archbishop of Bangkok is “I do all things for the sake of the Gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:23).
Addressing the faithful at the end of the celebration, Archbishop Arpondratana expressed his deep gratitude, recognising the long history of the Archdiocese of Bangkok and the privilege of continuing its mission.
Reflecting on his 15 years in Chiang Mai, the prelate thanked the clergy, men and women religious, and the faithful for the support he received during challenges he faced, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and major floods.
He stressed his work in catechetical training, including support for the faithful, especially young people and religious sisters studying at the Lux Mundi Major Seminary.
“I accept this appointment with trust in Divine Providence,” he added in an interview with the Licas news agency expressing deep gratitude to Cardinals Michael Michai Kitbunchu and Francis Xavier Kriengsak Kovithavanij. In particular, he praised the latter's initiative to set up 12 mission stations, which he has pledged to carry out in collaboration with the Thai Mission Society.
“I know that I am not the best, but I will do my best to help the Archdiocese of Bangkok become a true community of Christ’s disciples, proclaiming the New Evangelisation,” the prelate said.
Turning to the faithful, Archbishop Arpondratana encouraged them to take advantage of the opportunity for the spiritual renewal offered by the jubilee and its theme “Pilgrims of Hope”.
“Let us renew our faith through prayer, pilgrimage, acts of charity, and reconciliation,” he said. “In the past, a pastor led the flock with a shepherd’s staff, but today, Pope Francis calls us to journey together, listening to one another with our hearts,” he added, referring to the topic of synodality.
“My desire,” he explained, “is to listen to the Holy Spirit, my fellow bishops, priests, religious, and laity so that, guided by the teachings of the Church, we may walk together in faith, through joys and challenges, bringing the joyful proclamation of the Gospel to all.”
Photo: Licas / Peter Monthienvichienchai
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