Thailand’s first Catholic nursing college celebrates four decades of service
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St. Louis College, the first Catholic nursing establishment in Thailand, marked its 40th anniversary with a renewed commitment to produce graduates with fundamental values of service, compassion and professional excellence.
By Chainarong Monthienvichichai – Thailand, Licas News
The celebration, which was held on Friday January 24, presented a solemn Eucharistic ceremony led by Bishop Francis Xavier Vira Arponratana, elected archbishop of Bangkok.
During his speech, Archbishop Arponratana paid tribute to the founder of the college, Cardinal Michael Michai Kitbunchu, Archbishop of Bangkok.
Although unable to attend for health reasons, Cardinal Kitbunchu continues to play an active role as President of the Council college.
His advice guarantee that the institution remains faithful to its education mission focused on faith while adhering to the educational laws of Thailand.
Thinking about the history of the college, Sr. Christophe K. Bhekanan, SPC, recalled his creation in 1984, inspired by the visit of Pope John Paul II in Thailand.
The pope’s meeting with Cardinal Kitbunchu, mother Miriam Kitcharoen (then general general of the Sisters of St. Paul de Chartres in Thailand), and Dr Mana Boonkhanphol (then director of St. Louis Hospital) led to vision of the establishment of a diocesan college nurse.
In 1985, the Ministry of University Affairs approved the training of St. Louis College of Nursing under the direction of Professor Dr. Boonsom Martin and the sisters of Saint-Paul de Chartres.
The institution has adopted the guidance motto, Ubi Caritas and Amor, Deus Ibi is (“Where there is charity and love, God is there”).
Cardinal Francis Xavier Krriengsak Kovithavanij, who retired as Archbishop of Bangkok in June 2024, underlined the transformative leadership of Cardinal Kitbunchu.
“In fact, it is the” sweetest power “- the genre, gentle and merciful in its direction, embodying the” civilization of love “that we learned of Jesus Christ”, shared the cardinal Kovithavanij in his Congratulations message.
He also congratulated the institution for his mission to “shine the light of love”, praising the dedication of his administrators, teachers, former students and students by promoting compassion and mercy.
Sr. Christophe, the current president of St. Louis College, has underlined the institution’s commitment over the past four decades to feed professionals with competence and compassion.
“Since its creation, Cardinal Kitbunchu has considered St. Louis College as a Catholic establishment which instills love, compassion and a commitment to patient care,” she noted.
Even at the age of 96, Cardinal Kitbunchu remains influential to shape the management of the college, ensuring that he adheres to his founding principles of faith and education focused on service.
The impact of St. Louis College extends beyond national borders thanks to partnerships with national and international institutions.
Memorandums of understanding (MOUS) have raised its teaching, research and academic services to global standards.
The sisters of St. Paul de Chartres, who also manage the hospital of St. Louis, were part of the progress of the mission of the college.
“For 40 years, the sisters have sown with the seeds of God’s love and mercy,” said Sr. Christophe. “Their commitment inspires the whole university community to embody love and mercy in their professional and personal life.”
This article was initially published on https://www.licas.news/. All rights reserved. Republication not authorized by third parties is not authorized.
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