Dili, April 25, 2025 (Média Democracia) – Before his passing, Pope Francis released a book in which he shared his reflections and conclusions based on his life experiences. In this book, he made a meaningful statement: death should not be seen as the end or merely a final moment in a person’s life, but rather as a new peace, or a fresh sign for someone to start a new life.
According to the parish priest of the Dili Cathedral, Father Paulos Maia, the book recommends that although death deserves dignity, it should also reflect the values of Christian life lived in this world.
“Dear fellow Christians, the visit of Pope Francis remains strong in the memory and hearts of us Timorese, as we have a deep connection with him because he came and visited our beloved land,” said Father Paulos Maia.
He further stated that Pope Francis is called the “People’s Pope” because of his deep human compassion, particularly toward the poor. This is one of the reasons he chose the name Pope Francis, reflecting the life of Saint Francis of Assisi.
“During Pope Francis’ final mass at Tasi-Tolu, he delivered a message urging the wealthy to live simply and love the poor and care for nature. This message remains in our hearts, and we must continue to sow the seeds and live this message in our daily lives as Christians,” he added.
He emphasized that Pope Francis urged the Timorese people to be faithful and to strengthen their faith, noting that although 90% of Timorese are Catholic, it is still important to deepen that faith.
“Pope Francis used the crocodile as a symbolic figure of Timor, warning us to take care. He said the crocodile can destroy everything, it can destroy our faith, our culture, our unity, our land, ourselves, our families, and more,” he stated.
He highlighted that Pope Francis gave this message to help us understand the threats that silently come in different forms and that may erode our character as a nation.
“Pope Francis recommended that we take care when dealing with different ‘crocodiles’ or threats that may come to destroy or erase our identity as Timorese and as Christians. He also called on us to continue smiling, showing a kind face with love and respect for everyone,” he added.
He conveyed that Pope Francis urged Timorese to take care of their children because the future of this land lies in their hands not only in the hands of the elders but also in those of the young and the little ones. Thus, we must care for both the young and the elderly, as they are the memory and guardians of Timor-Leste’s values.
Moreover, Pope Francis expressed an emotional impression about Timor-Leste. He said that what is good in Timor-Leste is not the fragrance of frangipani or the abundance of fish in the sea – what is best in Timor-Leste is its people, who are more valuable than the wealth of any other nation.
Report : Nelfiano
Photo : Nelfiano