By Fr. Kriengsak Joseph, SDB

Hua Hin, Thailand -- On the 22nd August 2017 passed away in Hua Hin, Thailand, to the House of the Father our beloved Salesian Priest Sanong Chornthong at the age of 82 years - after 57 years of Salesian religious life and 48 years of priesthood.

Fr. Joseph was born in Bangkok in 1935, started his Aspirantate in Hua Hin in 1958, then made his first profession in the hands of Fr. Mario Ruzzeddu in 1959, studied philosophy in Hua Hin and theology in Cremisan, Israel. Then was ordained to priesthoood in Jerusalem in 1969.

After his ordination exercised the Salesian mission in a variety of apostolates - Catechist and Prefect in the schools (Udonthani, Bangkok - St. Dominic, Banpong - Don Bosco), Parishes (Haad Yai, Chumphorn, Ban Saen Arun, Tham Sing) as well in Retreat house (Hua Hin) , Vocation Training Center for the Blind (Bangkok - Pakkred) or in the Aspirantate (Banpong - Nazareth House).

After his heart surgery in 1999 he was forced to slow down his working zeal and dedicate some time for rest. During last three years he was a senior member of the Hua Hin community (2014-2017). He passed to the Lord in a silent way.

We pray for the eternal rest of Fr. Sanong and treasure his tireless life witness!

'Death for a Salesian is made bright by the hope of entering into the joy of his Lord.... The memory of departed confreres unites, 'in a love that will not pass away' those who are already resting in Christ' (SDB Constitutions, art. 54)

The photos: The first day of Mass and prayer for Fr. Sanong at St.Theresa Church Hua-Hin (23 Aug). After two days of prayers in Hua Hin (23-24 Aug). the mortal rest of Fr. Sanong will be transferred to Banpong 25 Aug. for evening Mass) and 26 Aug at 14.00 is held the the Funeral Mass presided by Bishop of Surrathani, Joseph Prathan, SDB

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