KOVALIMA, 26 April 2025 (TATOLI) – Catholics in the municipality of Kovalima, held a procession to place flowers and light candles at the monument of Our Lady Ave Maria in Suai, in relation to the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis on April 21.
Before placing flowers and lighting candles, Kovalima authorities joined the Catholic faithful in a procession from the Church of Our Lady of Fatima in Suai to the monument of Our Lady Ave Maria.
The parish priest of the Church of Our Lady of Fatima in Suai, Aderito da Costa Vilár Morreira, made the decision to hold this tribute, recognizing that Pope Francis had always sought the help of women before carrying out his mission.
“I decided to place flowers and light candles at the monument of Our Lady, inspired by His Holiness Pope Francis’ biography, which tells us through the media that before embarking on his journeys and missions, he always sought the help of women for prayers,” said Aderito da Costa Vilár Morreira in an interview, after the tribute at the monument today.
Thus, the parish in Suai came together in a gesture of devotion and gratitude for Pope Francis’ love for Timor, as Timorese lit candles at the statue of Our Lady as a symbolic act for all.
“We also pray for Pope Francis’ blessing upon all of us, the authorities, and everyone carrying out their mission, following the example he left us,” he continued.
The passing of His Holiness Pope Francis has deeply saddened Catholics in Kovalima, who feel the loss of a guiding figure, as Pope Francis was seen as the successor of Saint Peter.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of Municipal Administration and Finance, Albeto Moniz de Araújo, stated that all Catholics gathered at the monument to place flowers and light candles in memory of His Holiness Pope Francis, marking the conclusion of his pilgrimage on Earth.
“The authorities of Kovalima will always remember the message from His Holiness Pope Francis during his visit to Timor-Leste when he said, ‘I love Timor, and Timor is in my heart,’ a message that resonates with all of us Catholics, urging us to keep faith in our lives,” he reflected.
Pope Francis’ visit inspires Timorese to love the Church
Pope Francis’ visit to Timor-Leste serves as an inspiration for Catholics in the country to strengthen their faith and love for the Church. During a homily in Suai, the parish priest emphasized the Pope’s role in encouraging spiritual devotion and fostering hope among the faithful. His presence also highlights the importance of children and elders in preserving Timor’s identity and history.
The government allocated $40,000 to support the visit, including logistical preparations for transporting 4,500 registered pilgrims to the solemn Mass on September 10 in Dili. Pope Francis affirmed his deep connection with Timor-Leste, stating, “Timor is in my heart. I love Timor.”
Journalist: Celestina Teles
Editor/translator: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
