The Holy Redeemer Church in Buengkan Province, Thailand is both a place of prayer and Eucharistic worship and a centre of compassionate outreach for those in need.
Parish Priest Fr Pham Dinh Tuan SVD, who recently celebrated the 15th anniversary of his priesthood, is close to his parishioners, most of whom live a rural subsistence farming lifestyle.
The church is about 189 km away from the SVD House in Nongbua Lamphu.
District Leader for the SVD’s Udon Thani Province, Fr Ben Bella SVD, describes Fr Tuan as “a simple person but full of energy to serve people in his ministry”.
“He is living out the Gospel through compassionate pastoral ministry, especially among the poor, the sick, the elderly and children,” he said.
“Fr Tuan is engaged in a ministry of presence, charity and accompaniment within the community. Through home visits, he brings not only material assistance but also spiritual comfort and Christian hope to those who are vulnerable and in need.”
Fr Tuan’s outreach ministries in the Holy Redeemer parish include visiting elderly people, the sick and low-income families in their homes.
He distributes food, daily necessities and household supplies, demonstrating the Church's commitment to caring for those on the margins of society.
“His visits provide encouragement. companionship and tangible signs of God's love,” Fr Ben said.
Photos of Fr Tuan show him standing between and even sitting alongside his parishioners at their homes, listening to them and sharing moments of friendship.
“The images also reveal his concern for children and families. By supporting children in the parish and encouraging their participation in the church life, he helps nurture faith and community spirit among the younger generation,” said Fr Ben.
“This reflects the pastoral approach of "WALKING WITH THE PEOPLE" where ministry is not the church building but reaches into daily lives of the faithful.
“Overall, these photos capture a shepherd who serves with humility, compassion and dedication.
“His ministry embodies Christ's call to care for the poor, visit the sick, comfort the suffering and proclaim GOD'S LOVE through both words and action.”
PHOTOS
TOP RIGHT: Fr Tuan (back row, white vestment) with parishioners at Holy Redeemer Church in Buengkan Province, Thailand.
MIDDLE LEFT: Fr Tuan visits parishioners and provides assistance packages as a means of practical support.
BOTTOM RIGHT: Fr Tuan with parishioners at the church - he is renowned for walking with and accompanying the families in the parish.