Thailand of Smiles
By Sr. Roslyn Rivera, CM
Some years ago there Carmelite Missionaries left the Philippines to assist in the Pastoral Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Ratchaburi, 130 kms. southwest of Bangkok. Sr. Roslyn Rivera describes their first tentative steps in a strange but hospitable land.
Hospitality
We spent the first few months studying the Thai language which was difficult. This experience brought a lot humbling situations. Like when I asked or the post office, I ended up at the train station. But hospitality towards the stranger. Another day I was driving to a village under the torrent of rain to bring something to close a family. The road was so bad that I did not realize how the close I was to the edge. I ended up by going into the ditch. The car got stuck. So I had to get down and walk back to the nearest house to asked for help. Two men readily came back with me after a few minutes, more people came on their bicycles and motorcycles, including children and women bringing with them a rope, hoe and spade to help pull out the car.
Culture
More and more each day, we get acquainted and familiar with Thai lifestyle, beliefs, culture and food.
Rice is basic to the Tai menu and they generally prefer hot and spicy food. Somtam, a papaya delicacy in the Northeast, is now served everywhere on restaurants and along the road side. As soon as we arrived in Thailand, we were brought to a native restaurant where seafood was served. After sometime a vegetable dish came which seemed to look like ‘huya-huya’ but we keep our dismay to ourselves and enjoyed the food.
Religion
One of the traditional beliefs that still plays a great role in their life is the erecton of a spirit house in their homes, public buildings and offices. They would offer food to the spirit dwelling in it so that it will remain contented. Their burial rite is a festive affair and the place of the wake is usually decorated with numerous lights. The Thais have a pride n their national identify that springs from a long adherence to tradition.
Pastoral Work
Sister Antonia Cazar and Cresencia Lopez are involved in the pastoral ministry, reaching out to the people around the neighborhood. They attend parish services of Buddhist and visit families and the hostel. I take charge of a small hostel owned by the diocese which provides safe and decent dwelling to girls who come from far and poor provinces and are studying at the Teachers’ College. Our small Carmelite community is becoming a leaven; a joyful family living in Christ.