Pope Francis has concluded a historic visit to East Timor, one of the world’s poorest nations, and is now heading to Singapore, one of the richest. The Pope’s journey highlights the stark economic contrasts between the two countries and underscores his message of peace, prosperity, and reconciliation.
A Joyous Visit to East Timor
Pope Francis wrapped up his visit to East Timor with a rally attended by the nation’s youth, who make up the majority of the 1.3 million population. He urged them to work together to build their young country, using the foundations laid by older generations who secured independence from Indonesia in 2002.
“Go forward with the happiness of youth, but don’t forget one thing,” Francis told them. “You are the heirs of those who persevered in founding this nation. For this, don’t lose your memory, the memory of those who persevered with so much sacrifice to consolidate this nation.”
The Pope’s visit culminated in a Mass attended by around 600,000 people, nearly half the population. The Mass was held at a seaside park, the same location where St. John Paul II prayed 35 years ago during Indonesian rule.