DILI, 27 April 2025 (TATOLI) – His Holiness Pope Francis has departed from this world, but his memory—his words, thoughts, and actions—will remain deeply engraved in the hearts and minds of every believer.
As children, they feel the loss of a father—the leader of the Catholic Church. Thus, the people of Timor-Leste express their grief, their tears falling as they voice emotions that words cannot fully capture.
Don Leandro Maria Alves, Bishop of Baucau Diocese
“Timor’s heart remains with Pope Francis. May he rest in peace, and may he find eternal rest in God’s heavenly kingdom.”
Angelica da Costa, in Tasi-Tolu
“When I heard the Pope say that Timor was in his heart, my own heart ached, and I cried. I recalled his words when he visited Timor.”
Domingas Soares Maia Tavares
“At that moment, I sang a psalm at the Mass in Tasi-Tolu. Personally, I felt deep sorrow, because we lost a father.”
Maria Canosa Soares
“This is the loss of someone truly great—like a father who loved humanity and became a symbol of universal brotherhood.”
Jeferino Soares, Former President of the Municipal Authority (PAM) of Bobonaru
“His message is especially about love, caring for one another, and being vigilant against the harmful forces that could weaken our community, our faith, and our homeland.”
Farewell, Pope Francis. Rest in peace in this new world beyond ours!
Journalist: Alexandra da Costa/Felicidade Ximenes/Sergio da Cruz
Translation: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
