A short film produced by the Catholic Association of Thailand that reflects on climate change through a family conversation won first prize in the Laudato Si’ Short Film Contest organized by Radio Veritas Asia.
The film, “Love in Action” (รัก=ลงมือทำ), was honored during a ceremony hosted by the Archdiocese of Bangkok on March 3, recognizing creative efforts to promote ecological awareness inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’.
The contest, part of Radio Veritas Asia’s campaign marking the encyclical’s 10th anniversary, drew more than 80 entries from communities across Asia and beyond. The winning entry received a US$1,000 prize along with a certificate and trophy.
Directed and produced by the Pick family on behalf of the Catholic Association of Thailand, the short film stars Nehova Pick as the son, Aroonakorn Pick as the father, and Padcharawadee Pick as the mother.
The story unfolds through a simple exchange between a child and his parents about rising temperatures. The conversation gradually develops into a reflection on environmental responsibility and the role families play in caring for the Earth.
“I feel proud and even more love for the Earth,” said 11-year-old Nehova after receiving the award. “I would like all my friends, everyone, to help take care of the Earth, our common home.”
Fr. John Mi Shen, program director of Radio Veritas Asia and executive secretary of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences Office of Social Communication, said the film resonated with audiences because of its simplicity.
“This film touched the hearts of our judges and audiences because of its beautiful simplicity. A small conversation between a child and his parents about the hot weather becomes something much deeper – a moment of ecological awareness, family dialogue, and formation of conscience,” he said.
The priest said that the film, in many ways, “embodies the spirit of Laudato Si’,” adding that “Pope Francis reminds us that care for creation is not merely an environmental issue; it is a matter of relationships – with God, with one another, and with the earth entrusted to us.”
Archbishop Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana of Bangkok said the event reflected growing concern for the environment.
“Today is not just about prize-giving, but it is also a symbol of hope. It is a symbol that many people have not ignored the cry of the Earth, but have chosen to listen and respond with love and responsibility,” he said.
The prelate urged participants to carry the inspiration from the event into daily life by turning it into concrete action and a lasting commitment to care for the Earth for future generations.
Mrs. Emon Srikongphan, chairperson of Thailand’s Senate Standing Committee on Religion, Morality, Ethics, Arts and Culture, said environmental protection also reflects moral responsibility.
“Love for the environment is a tangible way to promote morality and ethics. The committee is pleased to draw inspiration from the apostolic letter in which the Archbishop conveyed the value of caring for the ‘common home’ as a guiding principle in our actions,” she said.
She added that environmental protection and ethical responsibility must advance together, describing care for the world as an expression of gratitude and duty toward others and future generations.
All photos below by Catholic Social Communications of Thailand
