Pope Francis Concludes East Timor Visit, Heads to Singapore
Pope Francis wrapped up his East Timor trip with a mass attended by nearly half the population. He urged youth to preserve their heritage before departing for Singapore, marking a stark economic contrast.
Pope Francis concluded his visit to East Timor, one of the world's youngest and poorest nations, before departing for Singapore, a stark contrast in economic development. The pontiff's journey highlighted the diverse challenges faced by countries in Southeast Asia.
In East Timor, Francis addressed a gathering of young people, who constitute the majority of the nation's 1.3 million population. He emphasized the importance of preserving their heritage while building a future of peace and prosperity. The Pope's message resonated deeply in a country that gained independence just 22 years ago after a long struggle against Indonesian occupation.
"Go forward with the happiness of youth, but don't forget one thing. 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 87-year-old pontiff's visit to East Timor culminated in a record-setting Mass attended by approximately 600,000 people - nearly half the country's population. This event took place on the same field where St. John Paul II prayed 35 years ago when East Timor was under Indonesian rule.
Francis cautioned the Timorese about potential exploitation of their natural resources, using the metaphor of "crocodiles" to describe those who might seek to change their culture and history for commercial gain. This warning is particularly relevant as East Timor grapples with the development of its offshore gas reserves, a key source of economic potential for the nation.
The contrast between East Timor and Singapore, the Pope's next destination, is stark. While East Timor struggles with poverty and high unemployment, Singapore has transformed from a colonial port into an economic powerhouse since gaining independence 59 years ago. The city-state is known for its high living standards and low crime rates, but also for its competitive work environment and high cost of living.
As Pope Francis transitions from one of Asia's poorest countries to one of its richest, his journey underscores the diverse challenges and opportunities facing the region. The Pope's visit serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing economic development with cultural preservation and social justice.
