For over forty years, the Capuchins have been carrying out “frontier ministry” in Thailand, providing practical assistance to the poorest and to refugees, and are now looking toward the opening of a new mission in the south of the country.
Thailand is a land of stark contrasts: the rapid modernization and wealth of the capital, Bangkok, stand in stark contrast to rural areas—especially in the north and northeast of the country—which are still marked by poverty and inequality. In this context, where Theravada Buddhism is practiced by over 90% of the population and permeates the culture and daily life, Catholics represent a very small minority (less than 1%). Despite their small numbers, the Church has been fully integrated and widely respected nationwide since the 16th century, thanks above all to its valuable contributions and excellence in the social, educational, and healthcare sectors.
The Origins: A Special Bond with the Capuchin Nuns
It is against this backdrop that the work of the Capuchin friars—who have been present in the country since October 1980—takes place. The first three missionaries arrived from the Province of Milan (now the Province of Northwest Italy), which over time has sent a total of twelve friars; ten of them later returned home after carrying out arduous but rewarding missionary work, distinguishing themselves through their dedication to learning the language and training young candidates.
One of the most beautiful aspects of this mission is the close bond with the Capuchin nuns. Their foundation in the country dates back to 1934, and today they have as many as 6 monasteries with 87 Capuchin sisters; it was precisely the need to provide them with spiritual assistance that was one of the main reasons that led the friars to come to Thailand. Even today, the friars continue to assist the Capuchin Poor Clares’ monasteries and other congregations by offering spiritual support.
The Delegation Today: Growing Numbers and New Prospects
Currently, the Delegation consists of 21 friars (two of whom are studying in Italy at the International College of St. Lawrence of Brindisi), including two Italians, five young post-novices, and one postulant. During the decade from 2003 to 2013, the mission also engaged in a significant collaboration with Indonesia.
There are four active fraternities: two located in the center of the country, near Bangkok; one in the northeast, near Laos; and one in the north, near Myanmar (Burma). A Capuchin sisters’ monastery is also located next to three of these fraternities. Looking to the future, the friars already have an exciting project in the works: the opening of a new house in southern Thailand, where the nuns already have two monasteries.
Since 1981, our presence has served as a true beacon of hope and solidarity. Fully embodying the Franciscan spirit, the friars lead several parishes but go far beyond that, acting as a “Church that reaches out.” Their missionary work extends to various villages deep in the forests of the nation’s north and northeast.
Pastoral ministry takes the form of concrete acts of charity: the friars travel along rugged roads to bring food, comfort, and the Eucharist to the sick who are living in extreme poverty. This charity embraces everyone, without distinction, reaching even non-Christians and refugees from neighboring countries, to whom they offer not only spiritual support but also logistical and practical assistance for their integration.
The local people love and warmly welcome the Capuchins, recognizing in their “frontier ministry” an example of humility, joy, and total dedication—one that makes those living on the margins feel like a living and precious part of a large family.