Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Dili (Agenzia Fides) - Dialogue, repentance, reconciliation, and national peace are the objectives for the Catholic Church in East Timor, as it lives through this difficult situation of political and social tension. Over the course of the tiny Asian republic’s history, the Church has always had an influence and a say in society, guiding it towards the common good, peace, and harmony.
Thanks to the mediation efforts of the Catholic leaders, there now seems to be prospects for the reconciliation of the people, who are horrified by the assassination attempt made on President Jose Ramos-Horta and by the rebellion of a group of military soldiers (see Fides 25/2/2008). The President himself, who is seriously wounded and hospitalized in Darwin (Australia), has made a first step in announcing his pardon for those involved in the assassination attempt, saying that he feels no desires of revenge; on the contrary, his desire is for peace.
Meanwhile, there are rumors that rebel leaders may be willing to make public apologies. Others have already backed down and surrendered their arms. The work of the Church, that has received recognition on both the political and social levels, is now seeing some fruits of its labors. All await in hopeful expectation that the entire rebel group of soldiers will surrender their arms and abandon the fight for subversion, bringing close to a violent chapter and initiating a new time of peace. The government has also declared its willingness to offer pardon to the rebels, restoring them to their military ranks. The situation, therefore, remains hopeful.
The Democratic Republic of East Timor was established May 20, 2002, following a following a time period under transitional administration by the United Nations. In Timor, over 90% of the population is Catholic. Thus, the Church plays an important role in the formation of the consciences of Timor’s people.
The nation is committed to a “national dialogue” on the themes of justice and reconciliation, that includes members of Parliament, social and political organizations, and representatives of the Catholic community. The local Church has always focused on the necessity of “forgiveness in truth and justice,” as the base for strengthening national unity.
In addition to the service it provides to its 665,000 faithful in the Dioceses of Dili and Bacau, the Church in East Timor also offers social and health services and coordinates development programs for farmers. Among the challenges that the new nation faces, are the reconstruction of its infrastructure, schools, and hospitals and the establishment of an efficient means for overseeing the various sectors of public life. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 4/3/2008 righe 34, parole 425)
