The Knights of Malta Thailand (KMT) marked the conclusion of the Jubilee of the Sick and Healthcare Workers with renewed gratitude and commitment to their mission, as Pope Francis made a surprise appearance at St. Peter’s Square on Sunday.
“We roared with the crowds as the 88-year-old pontiff appeared, still receiving oxygen and wearing nasal tubes, yet full of spirit,” said Dr. Virachai Techavijit, Vice President of KMT. “It was a moment of deep joy and inspiration for all of us.”
The Pope’s brief but powerful presence was his first public appearance following more than a month of hospitalization for double pneumonia.
Reports noted that before entering the square, he went to confession inside St. Peter’s Basilica and passed through the Holy Door, marking his observance of the Jubilee.
Inspired by the pontiff’s spiritual pilgrimage, KMT members made their own journey on the same day to the Shrine of Blessed Father Nicholas Boonkerd in a Bangkok suburb.
The shrine, designated as a Jubilee site by the Archdiocese of Bangkok, offered pilgrims the opportunity to receive the Jubilee Indulgence.
“We walked through the Holy Door, prayed the Way of the Cross, and reflected deeply on the 14 stations, drawing spiritual strength from the sufferings of Blessed Nicholas and the Passion of Christ,” Dr. Virachai shared.
“We then celebrated the Eucharist and received the holy oil for long life—to continue serving those in need,” he added.
KMT has over thirty active members, including notable figures such as Chartsiri Sophonpanich, President of Bangkok Bank, who currently serves as the group’s president.
For the past five years, the group has collaborated with Catholic medical professionals, the ambulance team of St. Louis Hospital, and volunteers from St. Mark’s Church and surrounding communities to provide holistic care for the sick—addressing body, mind, and soul.
Their outreach includes a dedicated day of service offering Holy Mass, the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, haircuts, nail care, breakfast and lunch, medical check-ups, physical therapy, and ice cream—bringing joy to those often overlooked.
“This year, we donated essential supplies including two patient beds,” Dr. Virachai noted. “But beyond material support, the focus remained on spiritual care, beautifully led by our chaplain, Father Carlo Velardo, who ministers with unwavering devotion.”
The Knights of Malta trace their origins to the 11th century as the Knights Hospitaller, who cared for pilgrims of all faiths in Jerusalem.
Today, the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes and of Malta, is a Catholic lay religious order known globally for its humanitarian work.
In Thailand, the Order gained recognition for its rapid response following the 2004 tsunami, which claimed over 5,000 lives.
Through its global relief agency, Malteser International, the Order provided emergency assistance including food, clothing, and medical support to affected communities.
Now active in 120 countries, the Order of Malta continues its mission through medical, social, and spiritual services, particularly for the most vulnerable.
Members of the Order, organized into three classes under its Constitution, are called to live exemplary Christian lives in fidelity to the Church.
As Pope Francis called on the faithful to remain close to those who suffer, the Knights of Malta in Thailand echo his message through quiet, steadfast service.
“We are committed to serving the poor and sick, following the example of Pope Francis and the teachings of the Catholic Church,” said Dr. Techavijit.
