Led by Bishop Lawrence Thienchai Samarchit, the event was attended by 3,500 students from 60 Catholic schools, colleges and universities nationwide. A representative from the Vatican Nunciature in Bangkok and Catholic clergy from at least 10 nations attended the mass.

 Bishop Thienchai urged the students to follow HM the King's example of simple living and practical thinking.

 Reverend Bancha Saenghiran, the rector of the university, said, "We pray for His Majesty the King, for his physical well-being and for God's protection over him."

 An American visiting lecturer at the university, Reverend Francis Nash, said, "I love the King very much and I do know how much he means to all Thais. His Majesty the King is truly special."

 Student Kittipon Kornsung, from Phramaemaree Sathon School, said he was very happy for his King to be celebrating 60 years on the throne. "He is a good, great King," he said.

 Young Nuntaporn, from Santa Cruz Convent School, said, "I love my King very much."

 A senior at the university, Tana Kaipunlert, said, "Our King is great. He is a very warm person. We always think about Him in happy and sad times."

 The St John's University choir performed HM the King's favourite song, "Oh I say". The choir also sang the Royal song and a greeting song for HM the King, the world's longest-reigning monarch.

Glen V Chatelier

Special to The Nation