Dili, May 21, 2025 (Média Democracia) – Timor-Leste celebrated the 23rd Anniversary of the Restoration of Independence on May 20. In his address, the President of the Republic recalled the touching words of the Holy Father during his visit to Timor-Leste in September 2024. The official celebration took place at the Presidential Palace in Aitarak-Laran, Dili, on Tuesday.
In his speech, President José Ramos-Horta stated that on this day commemorating the 23rd Anniversary of the Restoration of Independence, he bows in deep reverence to the memory of His Holiness Pope Francis, who visited Timor-Leste and left a lasting impression on the nation and the world.
“The Pope’s presence among us in September 2024 was an extraordinary gift, like a sweet, lingering fragrance. His words continue to echo in the hearts of the Timorese people, strengthening our faith, inspiring our hope, and encouraging us to pursue justice and reconciliation. I am particularly moved by the central message of his visit, both simple and transformative: ‘Let Your Faith Be Your Culture,’” said President José Ramos-Horta.
The President elaborated that Pope Francis challenged the people of Timor-Leste not to be afraid to proclaim the Gospel as a fundamental part of their identity, to become “the fragrance of the Gospel in this land” a fragrance of reconciliation, peace, compassion, and justice.
“As we celebrate another year of restored independence, we draw inspiration from the spiritual and moral legacy left to us by His Holiness. Our commitment to faith is not merely a refuge, but a living and transformative force in building a more humane, just, and compassionate society,” the President continued.
The President also noted that these decisions carry special meaning when considering the profile and personality of the new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. His election, the result of a thoughtful and wise choice by the College of Cardinals, came as a surprise to many analysts and observers of Church life.
“This reflects deeply the coherence of the Holy See’s millennial mission. The new Pontiff has reaffirmed with clarity and determination the central role of the Church’s social doctrine, emphasizing Christian charity, justice, and attention to the most marginalized and vulnerable at the heart of his pastoral mission,” the President stated.
President Ramos-Horta emphasized that at a time when the world seems engulfed in darkness marked by violence, conflict, and a loss of spiritual values, the words and gestures of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV serve as a source of hope.
He further explained that, as Pope Francis once said, we live in a desacralized world often dominated by the “logic of conflict.” But he reminded us that we are not orphans in our faith, and amidst the depths of suffering, the light of love continues to shine, renewed now through the presence of the new Supreme Pontiff.
Report by: Nelfiano
Photo by: Nelfiano