Thailand

In late 1998 the Bishop of Undon Thani, in the northeast of Thailand , invited the SVDs to become involved in the care of HIV/AIDS sufferers in the diocese. A centre for the infected people had been established in 1997 but was struggling. The provision of better physical conditions and the implementation of good administrative systems were needed Two brothers heard the call and soon began language and cultural studies in Bangkok .

By March 2000 the brothers were ready to address the challenges of this devastating virus, assisted by the dedicated staff at the Centre. Through hard work on the part of the local staff and the contacts the brothers were able to call upon in their homelands and other developed countries, many patients have received medical and personal care while they have endeavoured to find ways of living with their illness. The Missionaries of Charity later took responsibilty for the care of infected children and young orphans at the Centre.

Extreme poverty, isolation and stigma all collude to make the situation very difficult. Young parents die leaving orphaned children who often are HIV infected. It soon became clear that a medical approach alone would not address the real prevailing issues. Care of the neglected, ways of finding some financial security for families and information and education all had to become a part of the pastoral mix.

Language and communication was not easy. Schools teach English but the teachers need assistance for their own proficiency in English. Teachers delighted in speaking with the brothers, taking every chance to improve their English. A decision was made that one of the brothers would become involved in providing classes of English and develop further English skills with teachers.

After six years the first SVD priests has been appointed to Thailand . Two priests, both of Vietnamese background, are presently undergoing studies in language and culture in Bangkok. Following their studies it is envisaged that the SVD Community will be able to care for the spiritual and liturgical needs of the local community in a new way. The work of the clergy and the brothers will complement each other in a manner that will be very visible and recognizable in a mainly Buddhist country.

Knowing that the SVD community in Udon Thani will double in size by the end of the year, a statement of Vision and Goals has been developed to focus the energies on the greatest needs of the next few years.