Thai Church, Holy See mark Queen Sirikit anniversary with royal requiem

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Thailand and the Apostolic Nunciature of the Holy See in Thailand will host a musical tribute to mark the first anniversary of the death of Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. The event, titled “A Royal Requiem: Music in Memory and Prayers,” will also honor Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati, who died in June at age 47.

The premiere performance is scheduled for November 18 at 6 p.m. at Assumption Cathedral in Bangkok, where the King and Queen are expected to attend. A second performance will be open to the public on November 29 at 4 p.m. at the Mahidol University main campus in Salaya.

Archbishop Francis Xavier Vira Arpondratana, president of the bishops’ conference, said the commemoration reflects the historical relationship between the Catholic Church, the Holy See, and the Thai monarchy. He noted that the musical tribute serves as an act of suffrage and a sign of friendship. The Thai Catholic community has held Requiem Masses and liturgies of thanksgiving since the Queen Mother died on October 24, 2025.