December 4, 2008
by Jerry L. Van Marter

LOUISVILLE – As a worsening political crisis in Thailand drifts toward anarchy, the leader of the Church of Christ in Thailand (CCT) – the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s partner church there – has urged Christians around the world to pray for his country.

The PC(USA) has 10 mission workers serving in Thailand.

"Please pray for the situation throughout our country for wisdom and humility on the part of decision makers and for a swift, just and peaceful solution to hostilities," wrote the Rev. Sayam Muangsak, general secretary of the CCT in an email that was received by David Hudson, the PC(USA)'s area coordinator for Asia/Pacific.

The crisis in Thailand intensified last week when anti-government protestors occupied both of Bangkok's airports, forcing them to close. The protestors, members of the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), have demanded the ouster of the prime minister and have occupied his compound since August.

The prime minister is out of the country and unable to return. Speculation is rampant that the Thai military will step in and seize control of the government.

Political violence has added to the sense of drift than many fear is leading the country to anarchy. More than 50 people were injured over the weekend in clashes between PAD supporters and pro-government counter-protestors. The two groups confronted each other Sunday (Nov. 30) in front of the capitol.

The full text of Muangsak's prayer appeal:

Dear Friends,

As you may be aware the situation here in Thailand has worsened over these last few days. The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) has taken over Government House and the government's temporary offices in Don Muang. They have also moved into both airports here in Bangkok disrupting all air traffic both domestic and international.

In all of this there have been several isolated incidents of violence from both the PAD and those who oppose them (the United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship or UDD) and the fear is that this will escalate and perhaps spread. The military are still holding back from becoming directly involved, but there is a threat that if they do some sectors of society will respond with violence.

We here in the Church of Christ in Thailand value your prayers at this particular time. Please pray for the situation throughout our country for wisdom and humility on the part of decision makers and for a swift, just and peaceful solution to hostilities. As you can imagine at this time of economic difficulties throughout the world the closing of our airports and the subsequent loss of confidence by the business community and tourist industry does not bode well for the long term financial situation here.

May God continue to bless you.

Respectfully,
The Rev. Sayam Muangsak
General Secretary
Church of Christ in Thailand

Presbyterian News Service