Loy Krathong

Ok, so yesterday was also Loy Krathong. Basically Loy Krathong is a holiday in which Thais make these beautiful krathong's out of bannana leaves and trunks and decorate them with incense and candles. Then on the night of the full moon of the 12th month (which in Thailand is November) they light the candles and release these krathong's on the waterways of Thailand. At our language center, the teachers always have special sessions during national holidays to explain to us the customs surrounding the holidays. So, on Tuesday, we had a special session on Loy Krathong...and we got to make a krathong. The sad part about Loy Krathong is that the reason most Thais release these krathong's on the waterways is to appease the spirit of the water. They ask forgiveness for polluting the water, etc and then ask for blessing from the spirit as well. Despite it's pagan origin we (our family and our fellowship group) wanted to join in the festivities and observe this holiday. We ate at the night food area where there are many, many food vendors and then we walked around a bit. Coupled with the actual krathong is a beauty pageant and here in Lopburi, a parade. An interesting point to make about Loy Krathong is that in some parts of Thailand Christians are redeeming this part of culture with their own version. They thank God for the rivers and place crosses on the krathong's instead of incense. They view it as having a fun time with friends and giving thanks to God, the maker of all ALL things. How encouraging it was to hear that many Thai Christians are seeking to transform culture to bring glory and honor to God alone. So, posted below are some more pictures of the festivities.