On 27 April 2025, H.E. Mrs. Kanchana Patarachoke, Ambassador of Thailand to Belgium and Luxembourg, together with Ms. Siribhusaya Ungphakorn, Minister for Commercial Affairs, Mr. Songkhla Chulakasian, Minister for Agricultural Affairs, officials and officers and from the Embassy, and the Office of Agricultural Affairs in Brussels, attended a merit-making ceremony and Songkran Festival at Wat Thai Buddharama, Luxembourg.

 

The event was well attended by over 500 people. At the event, there were stalls selling Thai food, vegetables, and cooking ingredients. Everyone participated in offering alms and presenting lunch to the monks. In the afternoon, a Buddhist memorial service (Bang Sukun) was held to dedicate merit to deceased relatives, followed by a robe (Pha Pa) offering ceremony. Attendees also participated in pouring water to the Buddha statue and the monks, and enjoyed the “Little Kids Awards” competition, held for the second time this year for children aged 3 to 10, with 15 children participating. The event was organized by Wat Thai Buddharama, Luxembourg and Baan Benjatham, reflecting the strong cooperation of Thai families and communities in encouraging children, who will grow into future adults, to express themselves confidently and to take pride in Thai culture and traditional dress. The Royal Thai Embassy sent a representative to serve on the judging panel for the competition.

 

Throughout the day, the Royal Thai Embassy also provided mobile consular services at the event, including services related to Thai passports, civil registration (birth and death certificates), and legalization, as well as answering consular-related inquiries from both Thais and foreigners attending the event. More than 30 people registered and requested services.

 

On this occasion, the Royal Thai Embassy presented financial support to Wat Thai Buddharama, Luxembourg, and Baan Benjatham to assist in the operation and activities of the temple and the Thai community. Thai temples overseas are not only spiritual centers for Thai people but also important venues for preserving and continuing the beautiful traditions and culture of Thailand. We wish that all may fully share in these blessings. Blessings to all!