This June has been a blessed and joyful month for the Society of Jesus in Thailand, as we celebrated the ordination of two new Jesuit priests: Father Tharadol Dongyasopa, known as Father Jen, and Father Sadudee Dumrongkitmongkol, known as Father Pii. Though shaped by different experiences, their unique journeys reflect the same deep calling—to love and serve others through the priesthood. We give thanks to God for their devoted families, whose faith and nurturing spirit helped shape their vocations and guided them toward God’s call.
Ordination of Father Jen – June 21, 2025
On June 21, 2025, at Christ the King Church, Chang Ming, in the Archdiocese of Thare and Nonseng , Father Jen was ordained as a Jesuit priest. In the days leading up to the ordination, heavy rains caused concern, but through God’s grace, the day itself was perfect—clear skies, cool air, and no rain. The entire community gathered in joy and reverence to celebrate this sacred milestone.
The Most Reverend Anthony Weradet Chaiseri expressed his heartfelt joy, emphasizing how meaningful it was to ordain the first Jesuit priest in northeastern Thailand. He shared his hope that Father Jen would serve the Church and God’s people with joy and dedication.
Father Jen shared that his vocation was not a coincidence but a heartfelt response to God's call—one that was nurtured from childhood by his mother and family. In his early years, he would attend Mass simply to avoid being scolded in the morning, unaware that those small acts were quietly drawing him closer to God. Over time, this foundation led him to recognize and embrace his calling, supported by many who saw his deep love for service. The ordination ceremony was filled with God's presence and grace, as a large crowd gathered in worship, celebration, and thanksgiving.
Ordination of Father Pii – June 28, 2025
Just one week later, on June 28, 2025, at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Chiang Mai, Thailand, we celebrated another profound moment—the ordination of Father Sadudee Dumrongkitmongkol (Father Pii), alongside three other new priests."
In his ordination booklet, Father Pii shared how, from a young age, he had been searching for deeper meaning in life. When his parents spoke to him about what his future might look like, the typical life pattern—being born, growing up, working, starting a family, and eventually dying—felt empty and purposeless to him.
His perspective shifted through the stories his parents told about the missionaries who once came to their village. These men and women worked with the local people, taught them, served them, and lived lives full of love and selflessness. Though Father Pi never saw them himself, the example passed down through these stories inspired him deeply. He realized that a life of mission and service, rooted in love for others, was a life of true meaning—and it was then that he began to sense God’s call.
The ordination ceremony was filled with joy and unity. Many people attended, including representatives from diverse ethnic groups such as the Akha, Pgaz K’Nyau, Mong, and many others. It was a vibrant celebration of faith, diversity, and God’s calling.
May God bless Father Jen and Father Pii with fiery passion and gentle hearts, that they may continue to serve those in need with love and humility. The priesthood is a sacred and profound vocation—one that requires perseverance, a spirit of service, knowledge, flexibility, and compassion. Let us keep our priests in prayer, that they remain faithful to their mission. And may we continue to support and walk alongside them in their journey of serving God and His people.
