MISSIONER NEWSLETTER – Summer 2026

Gabe Hurrish, Thailand

“…living together is an art. It is a patient art. It is a beautiful art, it’s fascinating.” — Pope Francis

International news is packed with stories of war, violence, and corruption. One can get the sense that everything is going the way of hell on earth. Too much of this sort of news can depress people in a slow and subtle way, without their being aware of the negative effects on their personalities. Many begin to despair. Yet, HOPE is everywhere!

Bangkok is a bustling, world-class city with every amenity one can imagine. Walking around, there is a feeling that wealth is just a reach away. However, not all are lucky enough to have access to such luxury. Here in Thailand, after only a few weeks, I have witnessed several small projects that have lifted my spirit. Let me try to describe one such effort.

I visited a Buddhist temple where a unique partnership was occurring. The monks were cooperating with Catholics to support a group of refugee children. Families escaping persecution in their homelands have come to Thailand from various countries as far away as Guinea, Iran, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and mostly from Myanmar. Most of these families have no documentation other than a United Nations Refugee card. Unable to speak Thai, much less English, these refugees are immediately vulnerable and at risk. The parents have to work at menial jobs during long days to feed their children. Here is where the Mon Education Program comes in.

An agreement was reached between Catholics, Buddhists, and Muslims to house and educate some 70 children of all ages, races, and ethnicities at the Prok Wat Temple while the parents work. Two rooms were transformed into dormitories. A large room is provided as two classroom spaces for the children, while an unfinished third floor is used for a third class. The program pays three teachers and a cook. Materials are scarce and the conditions are less than ideal. Undaunted by these challenges, the children quickly learn Thai and English. The students do not see differences; rather, all of them work together as one big family. They are truly putting Pope Francis’ prayers for synodality into reality.

It seems such a small, insignificant effort in a wide world of power politics and ideological conflicts. Yet it is precisely these small acts of love that God deems most sacred. Deeply devoted people are working toward a world of nonviolence and peace, step by step. I was touched by how much dedication and care the staff give to these children. I even taught an impromptu lesson in English. I couldn’t communicate much with them, but we had fun anyway. A smile and laughter are universal languages.

I thank God for such experiences that uplift my faith in humanity. HOPE is alive and well. I also thank all of you for your continued support of my mission. If you would like to contribute, please send a gift to: Maryknoll Lay Missioners, P.O. Box 307, Maryknoll, NY 10545-0307. Please mention my name on the donation. God bless all people of good will.

Warm regards,

Gabe

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