Thai of all faiths prepare to welcome Pope Francis

13 Sept 12:39 Key points summarised by AI

Pope Francis embarks on a three-day apostolic journey to Thailand, following in the footsteps of Pope St John Paul II.
Tens of thousands, including an anticipated 50,000 at Holy Mass, are preparing to welcome the Pontiff, highlighting widespread anticipation.
His packed schedule includes high-level meetings with the Prime Minister, the Buddhist Supreme Patriarch, HM the King, and leaders of various religions.
The visit aims to encourage Christians as missionary disciples, coinciding with the 350th anniversary of Jesuit missionaries proclaiming the Gospel in Thailand.

Flooding persists in Bangkok and 22 provinces

Today 16:00 Key points summarised by AI

Persistent flooding continues across Bangkok and 22 Thai provinces, though water levels are gradually receding in many affected areas.
Over 604,000 families, impacting approximately 1.83 million people, are still grappling with the widespread flood conditions.
The national flood death toll has reached 80 since mid-September, with fatalities reported across various provinces.
Major regions like Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, and Bangkok report significant numbers of affected households, with hundreds of thousands still in trouble.