Pope Francis sends condolences message on the passing of Isabel Ferreira

DILI, june 21, 2023 (TATOLI) – Pope Francis expressed deep regret at the death of Isabel da Costa Ferreira, wife of the Prime Minister who passed away this june 18, 2023.

Pope’s message of condolences was read by the Ambassador of the Holy See to Timor-Leste, Monsignor Marco Sprizzi at the funeral mass for Isabel da Costa Ferreira, at the Imaculada da Conceição Church in Balide, in Dili.

The Mass was held at 15:00 this wednesday, and was presided Archbishop Dom Virgílio Cardeal do Carmo da Silva along with Mongsignor Marco Sprizzi.

Dom Virgílio Cardeal do Carmo da Silva, who presided over the liturgical celebration, said: “The wife of the Prime Minister, Isabel da Costa Ferreira, was devoted to the Blessed Sacrament of the Altar and the Eucharist has always given them strength, especially in recent times during in your suffering”.

Archbishop of Dili described the late Ferreira, the wife devoted to the Blessed Virgin, Queen of Heaven, to whom she prayed fervently for her family and nation.

“Isabel da Costa Ferreira was a good educator for her family and country. He always defended human rights and was always available to support needy families”.

The funeral Mass for the late Isabel Ferreira was attended by the Parliament, Members of Eight Constitutional Governments, Ambassadors, Religious, and all entities including Family and Friends.

After completing the funeral mass, many people waited with flowers and paid their last tribute to the late Ferreira’s body during the funeral procession to Because Cemetery.

President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta’s presence was also seen at the funeral including Members of the Government, NGOs, International and National Organizations, and the local community.

Arriving at the Cemetery, Prime Minister, Taur Matan Ruak and his three children walked behind the coffin in procession for the funeral rites.

During the funeral process, Timor-Leste members of (F-FDTL-Falintil-Forças da Defesa de Timor-Leste), given A three- salvo shots to honor the body of the late Isabel Ferreira, before laid to rest.

After completion of the funeral rites, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Republika Civil Presidency, Henriqueta Maria da Silva read out a message from the President of the Republic, José Ramos Horta expressing his deep condolences on the death of Isabel da Costa Ferreira.

“A jurist, Isabel da Costa Ferreira is an activist for human rights, in the struggle for self-determination and independence, a member of the Government, a member of the Truth and Friendship Commission, a promoter of peace and reconciliation, an advocate for gender equality, the rights of women, mothers, and children, people with special needs,” the message wrote.

Taur Matan Ruak and his three childrens, laid the flower to Isabel’s grave (Photo Tatoli/Francisco Sony)

The President of the Republic conveys his deepest condolences to the Prime Minister, Taur Matan Ruak, his daughters and sons, and all the grieving family members.

“Isabel da Costa Ferreira has inspired memories and lessons about dignity, honesty, and the passion to serve the poor and unfortunate and to serve our beloved country well,” he said.

The funeral ceremony finished at 8:00 PM Tlh.

Journalist: Camilo de Sousa

Editor: Nelia B.