The parish of St Clement Catholic Church in Chum Phae, in Thailand’s Khon Kaen Province is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.
Parish Priest, Fr Ben Bella SVD, said the relatively small parish is located in a rural area, surrounded by several villages with the church an important centre of faith and fellowship for the local people.
“The parish was established in 1986 and is now in its 40th year anniversary, this year,” Fr Ben said.
“My parish ministry serves Catholics who are scattered across different communities, especially among Buddhist people.”
Fr Ben, who is the District Leader of the SVD Australia Province’s Thailand District, previously served in another parish in rural Thailand. He arrived at St Clement’s Parish and took up the duties as Parish Priest on April 16, 2025 and has now been serving the people there for more than a year.
“Since then, I have been gradually getting to know the people, their families and their way of life. The parishioners have been very welcoming and supportive since my arrival,” he said.
“Most of the parishioners earn their living through farming, especially rice cultivation. Many families have modest incomes and face economic challenges, but they are hardworking, generous and strong in their faith.”
Fr Ben said St Clement’s is an active parish with a range of devotional and pastoral activities, including Bible-sharing groups, Rosary prayer groups, catechism classes and groups providing pastoral care for couples with family problems.
“These activities help strengthen both faith and community spirit,” he said.
“Parish ministry also provides outreach to the sick, the elderly and those who are unable to attend the church. Through home visits, prayer services, Holy Communion for the sick and pastoral care, we try to ensure that everyone feels connected to the parish community.”
Not only did he receive a very warm welcome from parishioners when he first arrived, but Fr Ben said he has since found that the people are enthusiastic about sharing in the life of the parish.
“Many parishioners volunteer their time and talents for church activities, maintenance, liturgical celebrations and community events. Their willingness to serve is a great blessing for me,” he said.
The parish is also situated in an interfaith context, with most people in the local area being Buddhists.
“We enjoy good relationships with our Buddhist neighbours and local leaders,” Fr Ben said.
“We respect one another's beliefs and often cooperate in community activities and social events. Even when we have Christmas or Easter celebrations, some of our Buddhist neighbours always come and bring some food to share after the Mass. This spirit of mutual respect contributes to such a great harmony in this area of my ministry.”
Fr Ben, who is originally from Indonesia, said that parish life in rural Thailand is both challenging and beautiful.
“What brings me the greatest joy as a missionary is witnessing the faith, kindness, generosity from people around and resilience of the people in their life,” he said.
“Through parish ministry, I can serve and accompany my parishioners in their daily lives. Celebrating the sacraments and sharing the Gospel with them are deeply rewarding experiences for me.
“Seeing people grow in faith and hope gives meaning and joy to my missionary vocation.”
PHOTOS
TOP RIGHT: Fr Ben Bella SVD with parishioners of St Clement's Catholic Church, Chum Phae, Thailand.
TOP LEFT: Fr Ben celebrates Mass in the parish.
MIDDLE RIGHT: The parish has a range of devotional and pastoral activities, including Bible-sharing groups, Rosary prayer groups, catechism classes and pastoral care groups.
BOTTOM LEFT: Celebrating Mass with local school children.