Pope Francis concludes his trip through Asia with a visit to Singapore after a record-setting final Mass in East Timor. In East Timor, the Pope encouraged the young population to work together to build their country on the foundations established by previous generations who secured their independence in 2002. He emphasized the importance of not forgetting the sacrifices made by those who founded the nation and urged the youth to maintain their cultural memory.
During his visit to East Timor, Francis also warned the Timorese to be cautious of “crocodiles” who seek to exploit their country’s natural resources for their own benefit. The Timorese economy heavily relies on oil and gas, with the development of the Greater Sunrise gas field being a contentious issue between Australia and East Timor. The Pope criticized multinational companies that exploit poor countries without adequately compensating the local population or caring for the environment.
The massive turnout in East Timor for Francis’ Mass reflects the strong Catholic faith of the population and their reverence for the church, which supported their fight for independence. Francis praised the Timorese for their efforts to reconcile with Indonesia after gaining independence, highlighting the importance of genuine reconciliation in the nation’s history. The focus now shifts towards development and improving the welfare of the Timorese people, with a commitment to mutual respect and cooperation with Indonesia.
From East Timor, Pope Francis traveled to Singapore, an economic powerhouse in Asia known for its high living standards and low crime rate. The city-state’s transformation from a colonial port into an economic success story has been lauded globally. While Singapore enjoys economic prosperity, it also faces challenges such as high cost of living and a competitive work environment that contributes to stress and overwork among the population. The Pope’s visit to Singapore includes a private meeting with his Jesuit confreres.
The Pope’s visit to East Timor and Singapore is part of his efforts to engage with different communities across the world, especially those in developing countries. His message of solidarity, peace, and reconciliation resonates with the people of East Timor, who have overcome their turbulent history to rebuild and strive for a better future. In Singapore, Francis will have the opportunity to learn about the unique challenges and successes of a developed nation and engage with diverse communities within the city-state.
As Pope Francis continues his pontificate’s longest and farthest trip through Asia, his visits to East Timor and Singapore showcase his commitment to promoting social justice, environmental conservation, and interfaith dialogue. The Pope’s presence in these countries highlights the importance of addressing issues such as poverty, exploitation, and economic development in a global context. His words of encouragement and solidarity inspire communities to work together towards a more just and sustainable future for all.
