Pope Francis Arrives in East Timor, Encouraging Unity and Healing

Pope Francis, a beacon of hope and inspiration, arrived in East Timor on Monday as part of his Southeast Asia and Oceania tour. He aims to foster the nation’s recovery from a turbulent past and celebrate its growth after two decades of independence from Indonesian rule. The Pope’s visit underscores the overwhelmingly Catholic East Timor’s journey toward peace and stability, instilling hope and resilience in its people.

Papal Visit Follows Key Anniversary

Arriving from Papua New Guinea, Francis landed in the capital, Dili, marking the third leg of his trip. He will meet with Timorese leaders and diplomats, strengthening the diplomatic and spiritual ties between the Vatican and this small, developing nation. The visit comes shortly after the 25th anniversary of East Timor’s U.N.-backed referendum that led to independence from Indonesia—an event that was a significant milestone in the country’s history.

“Our great hope is that he may come to consolidate fraternity, national unity, peace, and development for this new country,” said Estevão Tei Fernandes, a local university professor. He echoed the sentiments of many Timorese citizens eagerly awaiting the Pope’s arrival.

A Different Atmosphere from the Last Papal Visit

This visit contrasts sharply with the 1989 visit by St. John Paul II, which occurred during an unrest when East Timor was still under Indonesian occupation. That era, marked by violence and resistance, saw the deaths of up to 200,000 people throughout Indonesia’s 24-year rule. Francis’ arrival symbolizes East Timor’s substantial progress since its violent past, offering hope for a peaceful and prosperous future.

Confronting Legacies

In addition to addressing the country’s recovery, Pope Francis will confront the legacy of Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo. Belo, a revered figure in East Timor’s independence movement, shared the Nobel Peace Prize in 1996 with José Ramos-Horta, the current president of East Timor. The Norwegian Nobel Committee hailed Belo’s courage in peacefully resisting Indonesian occupation, including his bold actions in exposing the 1991 Santa Cruz massacre—a tragic event in which over 250 East Timorese civilians were killed by Indonesian forces—to the United Nations.

However, Belo’s reputation has been tarnished by sexual abuse allegations. In 2020, the Vatican sanctioned Belo for sexually abusing minors, placing restrictions on his ministry and barring him from contact with East Timor. Despite these revelations, many in East Timor continue to support Belo, with some hoping he might welcome Francis despite the Vatican’s firm stance on the matter. The Vatican has reiterated that Belo’s sanctions remain in place, which include restrictions on his public appearances and movements.

Reflecting on Progress and Challenges

Pope Francis’ visit presents an opportunity to celebrate East Timor’s progress and reflect on the challenges the nation and its people still face. As Francis continues his journey through Southeast Asia, his presence in East Timor is a powerful reminder of the importance of healing, unity, and reconciliation in overcoming a traumatic past.