Thai people have been immersed in grief recently as a result of the death of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.  We have seen various expressions of grief by individuals as well as groups.  The university has participated as far as we were able in activities conducted by the province and units.  The latest event organized by the Chiang Mai Provincial Government will be a memorial candle lighting service on November 2 beginning at 5 p.m. at the Royal Floral Park (near the Night Safari).  Payap has been invited to be the central organizer for the orchestra and choirs.  The Office of Public Relations with Organizations requested participation from various institutions.  Almost 200 singers and musicians were recruited.  They have rehearsed in the Sri Sangwan Building with the College of Music being the core group.  We expect great results as is appropriate for such a service.  In addition to the activities mentioned, we have carried out many things within the university, including encouraging wearing mourning clothing, decorating the campus, and posting billboards.  There was some delay with regard to the latter two activities inasmuch as there was confusion about the appropriate wording to be used.  People who were in touch with various official agencies, in the beginning, suggested nomenclature that was not consistent.  On top of that, it was very difficult to procure enough black and white cloth to use.  However, as of now that has all been successfully accomplished.

With regard to memorial activities, I have been asked why Payap University has not conducted activities as other agencies have done.  My response is that Payap University has outlined a year-long plan of memorial activities consistent with our identity.  We will begin with activities attached to our commencement program.  The commencement exercise will include a memorial at the outset.  Graduates will be invited to gather in the Henry Luce Chapel on November 1 to sing Sansern Phra Baramee (The King’s Anthem) before the Commencement dress rehearsal. 

On Friday December 9 at 4:30 p.m. there will be a memorial candle-lighting service for His Majesty for students and personnel in the Henry Luce Chapel and around the pool.  I would appreciate it if all students and staff would set aside this time to join in this veneration.  Details will be announced later.  If anyone has suggestions for conducting other activities please do not hesitate to let me know.  I am always glad to listen to suggestions.