By Chainarong Monthienvichienchai, Thailand
POPE Francis has named Bishop Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana, currently serving as the Bishop of Chiang Mai, as the new Archbishop of Bangkok.
The announcement, made by the Apostolic Nunciature to Thailand on Saturday, Jan 11, comes as the Catholic Church in the country commemorates the 25th beatification anniversary of Blessed Nicholas Boonkerd Kritbamrung.
Blessed Nicholas, a Thai martyr revered for his dedication to evangelization and catechesis, was accused of collaborating with foreign powers and imprisoned in 1944.
Despite his captivity, he baptized over 60 fellow inmates before his martyrdom. The anniversary celebration honoring him took place at his shrine in Samphran, his hometown.
Archbishop-elect Vira, 69, brings decades of experience to his new role. Born in St. Francis Xavier Parish in Bangkok, he was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Bangkok on Jun 7, 1981, by then-Archbishop Michael Michai Kitbunchu.
Over the years, he has held various key positions, including Vice Rector of St. Joseph’s Minor Seminary in Samphran, Director of the Diocesan Catechetical Center, and Secretary of the Episcopal Commission for Catechesis.
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