Christmas is a special occasion for our Catholic Students Network to reflect on the meaning of God dwelling among us and to share our joy with people who long for God’s coming.
From 20 to 21 December, around 38 students from different universities in Northern Thailand joined a Christmas project at Ban Pa Khao Lam Village, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai. This village has no electricity or Wi‑Fi; the community relies on solar panels for electricity.
From Seven Fountains Spirituality Center, we travelled for about two and a half hours before reaching the village. We began our programme by playing games with the children, such as the chair‑music game and “Sao Doi”. In Thai, Soi Dao means “Star Plucking”, a popular festive game similar to a lucky draw or raffle. Villagers spent only 10 baht per ticket and won useful household items such as shampoo, cooking pots, and daily necessities. Rather than handing out aid, we created an atmosphere of sharing, dignity, and hope. The students joined in enthusiastically, celebrating and rejoicing together with the villagers—especially when someone snagged a valuable prize for their 10 baht.
In the evening, we celebrated Christmas early with the community. The night was filled with performances prepared by the students, including dances, a short drama, and question‑and‑answer games. We served grilled meatballs and soft drinks, adding warmth and festivity to the celebration.
The next morning began with a Christmas Mass. After the Eucharistic celebration, we joined the Karen people in their traditional “Offering of New Rice” festival. Each family brought food to the church, and we shared a joyful buffet breakfast together. Afterward, we organised special games for the children, such as bingo, blind man’s bluff, straw passing, and chopstick ball picking. The adults enjoyed traditional games with us, including tug‑of‑war and climbing the oil‑slicked bamboo pole.
We concluded our programme by offering a special gift to each family in the village. There was so much joy and happiness shared and learnt during this trip. Somehow, it brought each of us deeper and made Christmas more meaningful for us and the people of Pa Khao Lam Village.
One student shared:
“I found this project interesting and meaningful in every aspect—the activities, the location, and the people. The venue was surrounded by beautiful nature, with fresh air and a peaceful atmosphere that made me feel relaxed and at ease. The food prepared by the villagers was delicious and heartwarming. Everyone took very good care of one another, from the warm welcome to accommodation and daily life together. I felt both physically full and emotionally fulfilled at the same time.
“This project not only gave me wonderful experiences but also helped me understand myself better—to step out of my comfort zone, to dare to try new things, and to gain valuable friendships. I was deeply impressed and truly grateful for this opportunity. If there are similar projects in the future, I would definitely want to join again, because this project has given me precious memories, meaningful experiences, and happiness.”
Christmas has come! Merry Christmas to all. May the Infant Jesus make each of us a joyful gift to everyone we encounter in our lives.
