Archbishop's web site Denver Catholic Register Parishes Catholic Pastoral Center
June 20, 2001
Archbishop of Thailand to visit Denver
Free public address to be offered at Knights Council 539
The rich cultural traditions of Thailand are beautifully depicted in the charming cinematic version of Roger and Hammerstein's classic, "The King and I." But for Catholics living in the nation that is 98 percent Buddhist, daily life is often painted by poverty and persecution, according to Archbishop Lawrence Khai of northeastern Thailand.
Archbishop Khai, who was nearly martyred for his faith as a young man, will celebrate the 5:30 p.m. Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on June 21, and give a free public talk at 6:30 p.m. at the nearby Knights of Columbus Council 539, 1555 Grant Street in Denver.
"Over 150 years ago, our Catholic forefathers were enslaved in the surrounding countries of Southeast Asia," Archbishop Khai writes in his letter of introduction to Denver. "Missionaries were able to purchase through charitable donations and free many of our people.
"By providential design, they were led to settle in `the Land of the Free,' which is the simple native translation of the name of Thailand," he continued. "Thais are known for their gracious and exceptional hospitality.
"Ninety-eight percent of our people are Buddhist, which means they do not know of a personal God, a tender affirming Savior," he added. "His healing presence always remains and radiates from the heart of our churches, through the gift of the Eucharist."
As a teenager, Archbishop Khai was forced to attend a Buddhist school after the seminary where he was studying was destroyed in a wave of Catholic persecution. When the principal of the school tried to force him to lead prayers to Buddha, he refused.
Along with the other Catholics who refused to renounce their faith, Archbishop Khai was subject to beatings and torture. At one point he was led outside and told that he was to be executed. Still he refused to renounce his faith in Jesus Christ.
During his visit to Denver, Archbishop Khai will visit Columbine High School, Mother Cabrini Shrine, and will meet with Archbishop Charles Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., and tour St. John Vianney Seminary.
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