25 Years of Witnessing to the Word in Thailand 219 the Mekong River on the Thai-Laos border, works to make a difference in the life of people living with HIV/AIDS. The Ban Mae Marie Home for Teenagers began as a home to care for orphans with AIDS, but has now been opened up for care of non-HIV-related teenagers and the elderly. Br Damien Lunders SVD said the Christmas celebration reflected the joy of the Advent/Christmas season. “Yesterday we celebrated Christmas together at Mother of Perpetual Help Centre,” he said. “All staff and residents from Ban Mae Marie (Mother Mary House), and patients from Villa Marie Hospice at the Centre gathered together. “It was a joyous celebration and all who were able, helped to prepare the decorations and the food.” Br Damien said it was decided to bring residents from Ban Mae Marie together at the Centre since so many of the patients at the hospice are not able to travel. He said the abundance of local food on the table reflected the hospitality of Thai culture. “Thai fashion is that there is always way more than enough food,” he said. “Food for the Thai people is always a joyous and social gathering.” At the end of the meal, the staff spoke words of thanks and appreciation and then gifts were distributed to all present. “All were happy and grateful for another year spent together looking after and helping each other.”
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