Dili, April 22, 2025 (Media Democracia) – The Catholics of Timor-Leste are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, marking the end of his earthly journey.
In an interview with a parishioner from the Cathedral Parish, Elena Ximenes expressed that as a Catholic, she feels profound sorrow at the loss of a beloved and kind spiritual father, cherished by Catholics worldwide, including the faithful in Timor-Leste. She said it feels like losing someone dear, especially because Pope Francis had recently visited Timor-Leste and personally reminded the Catholic community to reject hatred and embrace love for one another.
“We truly feel this loss deeply, even though he was physically far away, the moment we heard the news our hearts sank. I will never forget the memories of his visit to Timor, especially his message reminding us Catholics never to let hatred divide us but instead to live with love. These words will always stay with me, because Pope Francis understood the reality that Timor-Leste is a majority Catholic nation, and before returning to the Vatican, he left us with that heartfelt message,” said parishioner Elena Ximenes.
She emphasized that today, Catholics gathered at the Garden of Our Lady to offer prayers for His Holiness Pope Francis. Though their prayers may not physically reach the Vatican, as believers, they trust that their prayers will reach Pope Francis, for he remains in the hearts of all Catholics. That is why the faithful have come together here to lift their prayers for His Holiness.
Meanwhile, Castro Tavares, a parishioner from Motael Parish, shared that yesterday, like many other Timorese Catholics, he read through social media of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. As a Catholic, he feels a deep sense of loss for such a wise and kind spiritual father who has now left this world.
“As a Timorese Catholic, I feel a great sense of loss, especially because not long ago His Holiness visited us and left behind profound messages for both the faithful and the leaders. Whenever I recall the memories of Pope Francis, it brings me great sadness, but I also give thanks to God, who has lovingly called him home to His holy kingdom. I will always remember his words during his visit to our nation, when he said that his heart had fallen for Timor-Leste, those words remain forever etched in our minds,” said Motael parishioner Castro Tavares.
He went on to highlight one of the most profound messages left by Pope Francis, urging the people of Timor-Leste to preserve their culture and not allow other cultures to dominate their nation. He also reminded parents to watch over and protect their children and called on young people to love one another, to avoid hatred, and to refrain from creating conflicts. These messages, he said, will forever remain in their hearts as part of the Pope’s legacy from his visit to Timor-Leste.
As a closing note, he explained that Catholics from the parishes of the Cathedral, Motael, Balide, and Bidau gathered together at Our Lady’s Garden at Lecidere to offer prayers, light candles, and place flowers at the feet of Our Lady in honor of His Holiness Pope Francis.
Reported by : Domingas
Photo by : Dominga