Díli, 11 September 2025 – The capital of Timor-Leste, with its colourful buildings embraced on one side by the ocean and on the other guarded by the mountains crowned with the statue of Cristo Rei, was wrapped in an atmosphere of celebration and spirituality to mark the first anniversary of Pope Francis’ historic visit. Thousands filled the city’s Esplanada in a spirit of joy, faith, and national pride.
A Celebration of the People
The solemn Mass was presided over by Cardinal Virgílio do Carmo da Silva, Metropolitan Archbishop of Díli, together with Bishop Leandro Maria of Baucau, the Apostolic Representative, and no fewer than 125 priests from the nation’s three dioceses. This extraordinary communion gave visible witness to the strength of the Catholic Church in Timor-Leste and its deep roots in the life of the people.
Youth: The Beating Heart of the Nation
Among the faithful, the vibrant presence of young people brought freshness and the promise of continuity between generations. More than a detail, it was a sign of the future opening before them. During his 2024 visit, Pope Francis had called the young “the most precious treasure of Timor-Leste.” Those words returned as both echo and promise on this day of remembrance and hope.
A Date that Becomes History
The Timorese Episcopal Conference (CET) has chosen 11 September as “Foundation Day”, a commemoration that will now take its place in the national calendar. More than an anniversary, it is an institutional sign: the Church’s commitment to peace, justice, and human dignity.
Faith and Culture in Dialogue
Liturgical hymns, moments of prayer, and cultural expressions punctuated the celebration, weaving together spirituality and Timorese identity. A people able to recognise themselves in their faith, yet also open to the world through the universal language of hope.
More than a Memory, a Mission
11 September 2025 was not only the remembrance of a papal journey: it became a new beginning. A renewed commitment of the Church in Timor-Leste to walk alongside its people, as guardian of values that speak to believers and non-believers alike: the pursuit of peace, the respect for human dignity, and the strength of community.
