The northern Chiang Mai Diocese in Thailand celebrated World Food Day, honoring the Christian faith in God’s creation and revitalizing local wisdom for sustainable environmental stewardship.
“We must work together to heal the world, so future generations can inherit a better one,” said Bishop Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana of Chiang Mai to the large gathering of Indigenous people and youth.
World Food Day, designated by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization for Oct. 16, was observed this year by hill communities on a more convenient date—last Sunday. Oct. 27.
This year’s celebration in Mae La Noi District, approximately 230 km (a four-hour drive) from Chiang Mai City, embraced the theme: “Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future.”
Mae La Noi, perched high in the mountains of Mae Hong Son Province, is encircled by lush, green peaks. Visitors are greeted by a sea of morning mist and sweeping views of the hill tribes’ agricultural landscapes.
The event was jointly organized by Caritas Chiang Mai and parishes throughout Mae Hong Son Province.
“We organized this campaign to promote the conservation of nature and God’s creation, which provides our food,” said Fr. Thammanoon Jindadujsaichol of Caritas Chiang Mai Diocese.
“It is important to choose safe, environmentally supportive produce for food security, to pass on sustainable practices to new generations of farmers, and to support alternative markets for community health,” he added.
The celebration featured stalls with local foods made from natural ingredients, agricultural products from various parishes and tribes, and live presentations on traditional cooking and food production by participating tribes.
The event began with a procession from each parish to the venue, followed by an opening ceremony presided over by Bishop Francis Xavier Vira.
Attendees explored food and agricultural booths showcasing local produce, fruits, vegetables, seeds, seedlings, waste management, environmental issues, global warming, and natural fabric dyeing. Each booth facilitated knowledge-sharing and learning.
Bishop Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana of Chiang Mai Diocese visits a booth showcasing local produce at the World Food Day celebration in Mae La Noi. Dressed in traditional attire, young women from the hill communities proudly display fresh fruits and vegetables, highlighting the region’s agricultural diversity and commitment to sustainable food practices. Photo by Diocese of Chiang Mai
“After World War II, food was scarce, and many were extremely hungry. This issue persists today,” Bishop Francis Xavier Vira said in an interview with LiCAS News.
The bishop also referenced Pope Francis’ encyclicals Laudato Si’, Fratelli Tutti, and Laudate Deum, which warn humanity about global crises. “We are all connected, and no one survives alone.”
