Pope Francis hosted a mass for hundreds of thousands of devotees in Timor-Leste, the most Catholic country outside the Vatican. The pontiff was greeted by a rapturous reception in the capital city of Dili ahead of his sermon. Approximately 600,000 people attended the mass, with many expressing their excitement and emotions at the opportunity to see Pope Francis in person. The mass was a key event during the third leg of the Pope’s 12-day Asia-Pacific tour, which had already included stops in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, and would conclude in Singapore.
During the mass, Pope Francis praised Timor-Leste’s high birth rate, noting the abundance of children in the country and the vibrancy of life evident across the land. After the formal part of the mass ended, the pope made an off-script remark about crocodile attacks, warning the crowd to be vigilant against external threats that could negatively impact their culture and history. The pontiff then greeted the crowd from his popemobile as night fell, with attendees shouting their support for him.
Pilgrims had arrived hours before the mass began to secure a prime spot, enduring the tropical heat while waiting for the pontiff’s address. To shield themselves from the sun, many held white-and-yellow Vatican umbrellas, while firefighters helped cool off the crowd by spraying water. Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao joined in the festivities, leading a sing-along to lift spirits before pouring water into the mouths of those who were waiting to perform for Pope Francis. The event showcased the deep devotion of the Timorese people and their enthusiasm for the visit of the Pope.
The mass in Timor-Leste was a significant moment for the Catholic community in the country, where the majority of the population practices the faith. By hosting such a large gathering with Pope Francis, the authorities aimed to demonstrate the country’s commitment to its religious traditions and strengthen the bond between the government and the Church. The pope’s visit also served as a moment of celebration for the people of Timor-Leste, offering them a chance to come together in unity and demonstrate their reverence for their spiritual leader.
The pope’s remarks during the mass touched on themes of life and culture, highlighting the importance of preserving the values and traditions that define a society. His warning about the dangers of external influences served as a reminder for the people of Timor-Leste to stay true to their roots and protect their heritage. By adlibbing during his speech, Pope Francis showed his ability to connect with his audience on a personal level, using humor and anecdotes to convey his message effectively. The event was a memorable occasion for all in attendance, who will cherish the experience of being in the presence of the pontiff.
Overall, Pope Francis’s mass in Timor-Leste was a poignant moment that brought the community together in a display of faith and solidarity. The enthusiasm and passion of the pilgrims underscored the deep-rooted Catholic heritage of the country and the significance of the pope’s visit. As the Asia-Pacific tour continued, the message of hope and unity conveyed by Pope Francis resonated with the crowds, inspiring them to embrace their religious beliefs and cultural identity. The event will be remembered as a powerful symbol of spiritual devotion and the enduring connection between the Catholic Church and the people of Timor-Leste.
