(ZENIT News / Dali, 09.10.2024).- On September 10, Pope Francis start on a poignant day through Timor-Leste, a nation where Catholicism forms the bedrock of its identity. The day was marked by interactions with children, spiritual gatherings with clergy, and a historic mass attended by a staggering number of faithful.
A Heartfelt Welcome at Irmãs Alma School
The Pope’s day began with a visit to the Irmãs Alma School for children with disabilities. Upon his arrival at 8:45 AM, he was greeted by a vibrant scene. Sisters of the Alma Congregation stood alongside children in traditional dress, singing a welcome song that filled the air with warmth and joy. One child presented Pope Francis with a tais, the traditional woven scarf symbolizing respect and gratitude, embodying the deep connection between the Timorese people and the Holy Father.
Inside the school’s St. Vincent de Paul Hall, the Pope spent time with around 50 children and 28 sisters. Sister Gertrudis Bidi, the congregation’s superior, introduced the Pope to the school’s work, emphasizing the care and support provided to children with disabilities. A touching performance of song and dance followed, a tribute to the Pope’s compassionate presence. As a gesture of appreciation, Pope Francis signed a commemorative plaque celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Alma Congregation, marking the moment with a blessing before departing for his next stop.
A Gathering of Faith at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Pope Francis continued his day with a solemn visit to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Dili, where he was welcomed by Archbishop Virgílio do Carmo da Silva and the President of the Episcopal Conference, Monsignor Norberto do Amaral. The courtyard outside the cathedral was alive with the rhythm of a traditional Timorese dance, setting the tone for the gathering of clergy, seminarians, and catechists waiting to meet the Pope.
After receiving a cross and blessing the holy water at the entrance, the Pope made his way through the cathedral’s nave to the altar, where he paused to greet a group of individuals with disabilities. These small, personal moments reflected the Pope’s deep commitment to inclusivity, a recurring theme throughout his papacy.
Following testimonies from a nun, a priest, and a catechist, Pope Francis delivered a heartfelt address, speaking to the gathered faithful about the strength and resilience of their mission. Before leaving the cathedral, the Pope blessed the foundation stones for three new dioceses in Timor-Leste and took a moment to greet a group of the sick, offering words of comfort.
A Historic Mass at Taci Tolú
The highlight of the day came in the afternoon, as Pope Francis presided over a grand Eucharistic celebration at the sprawling Taci Tolú esplanade. The sheer scale of the event was astonishing: over 600,000 people attended the Mass, accounting for nearly half of Timor-Leste’s population. As the country with the highest percentage of Catholics in the world—96%—this gathering symbolized both a religious and national celebration.
Upon arrival, the Pope was welcomed by a traditional Timorese dance and again took time to greet individuals with disabilities. The Mass began at 4:30 PM, with Pope Francis delivering a homily that resonated deeply with the vast congregation. The Archbishop of Dili, Virgílio do Carmo da Silva, offered words of thanks at the conclusion of the Mass, expressing the nation’s gratitude for the Pope’s presence.
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