After decades of neglect, the historic seminary of the Ratchaburi Diocese, about 100 km west of Bangkok, originally built in 1906 in Bang Chang near the famous Dam Nern Saduak Floating Market to provide young men formation for the priesthood, has been transformed into a diocesan museum and pastoral training center.
This reconstruction serves as a reminder of its rich history and legacy within the Catholic Church in Thailand.
The new museum and diocesan pastoral training center prominently feature photographs of the old seminary, offering visitors a glimpse into its past glory. A key highlight is the newly constructed chapel, adorned with stained glass depicting the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Beneath the artwork is the Latin inscription, “Cor Jesu Sacratissimum Miserere Nobis,” translating to “Sacred Heart of Jesus, Have Mercy on Us.” This phrase not only reflects the spiritual heritage of the seminary but also honors its original name, Sacred Heart Seminary.
The original seminary building, abandoned since 1959 when the Diocese moved the seminary to Ratchaburi provincial center, had fallen into severe disrepair. Hidden beneath dense foliage, it became a forgotten relic of the Church’s history, despite being situated within a bustling neighborhood.
Cardinal Michael Michai Kitbunchu, retired Archbishop of Bangkok, expressed his concern over the building’s state, calling for its reconstruction since restoration was no longer viable. “It’s hard to believe the old building was abandoned for decades,” remarked a local parishioner, recalling its once-prominent role in the diocese.
On Sunday, December 15, Cardinal Michai presided over the blessing of the new chapel, which incorporates elements of the original structure. “The new chapel, while retaining some parts of the old building, is far more beautiful than the original,” he observed at the end of the ceremony.
He also acknowledged the critical role of retired Bishop John Bosco Panya Kritcharoen, who approved the reconstruction plan before being hospitalized, and Bishop Silvio Siripong Charatsri, under whose leadership the project was completed.
The seminary’s history dates back to 1872 when it was established in Bangkok before relocating to Bang Chang. Renamed Sacred Heart Seminary, it became a cornerstone of priestly formation. In 1880, the seminary celebrated the ordination of its first Thai priest.
In 1934, after Ratchaburi became a diocese, Bangkok seminarians moved east to the seminary in Sri Racha, and later the Diocese also moved the seminary to a new site, leaving the original seminary in Bang Chang to eventually fall into disuse.
Reflecting on its legacy, Bishop Silvio Siripong of Ratchaburi Diocese highlighted the significant contributions of the old seminary, which produced two Blessed individuals, one Cardinal, 13 bishops, and hundreds of priests.
“This seminary played a crucial role in shaping the Church in Thailand,” he noted. He also expressed gratitude to the many devout Catholic families, particularly the Yongkamol family, who supported the reconstruction.
The new museum and chapel honor this rich history while also serving as a center for pastoral training and historical learning for the diocese. Bishop Siripong emphasized, “The new structure stands as a memorial to the Bang Chang-Bang Nok Khwaek seminary, ensuring its legacy endures for future generations.”
This renewal not only preserves the past but also paves the way for the diocese’s future endeavors, blending history with hope.
