As Pope Francis visits Timor-Leste, a devoutly Catholic country heavily reliant on oil and gas revenues that may soon be depleted, the government has spared no expense in preparing for his arrival. Allocating $12 million for the visit, including $1 million for the mass altar alone, Francis is likely to address economic and social issues in a country where 42% of the population lives below the poverty line. Despite these challenges, some individuals are taking advantage of the pope’s visit to make money, such as a teacher who set up a street stall selling pope merchandise and earned more in two days than the average monthly salary.
In addition to economic issues, Timor-Leste faces problems including alleged government corruption, serious gender-based violence, domestic abuse of persons with disabilities, and child labor. However, the most controversial issue facing the pontiff during his visit is clerical abuse cases within the Catholic Church, including a Nobel-winning bishop who was secretly punished by the Vatican for allegedly sexually abusing young children for decades. Advocacy groups are calling for Francis to address the issue during his visit, although his official schedule currently does not include any events with victims of abuse.
Despite the government’s efforts to welcome Francis, there is growing concern among the public about the lack of action on child abuse cases within the Church. The pope has a history of addressing abuse allegations in the past by speaking out in speeches or privately meeting with victims during his trips. However, with no events currently scheduled with victims during his visit to Timor-Leste, advocates are hoping that Francis will use this opportunity to acknowledge and address ongoing issues of abuse within the Church.
As the pope continues his visit to Timor-Leste, many are looking to him to address not only economic and social challenges facing the country but also the sensitive issue of clerical abuse cases within the Catholic Church. With a history of addressing abuse allegations during his trips, advocates are hopeful that Francis will use this opportunity to speak out or meet with victims of abuse privately. While the government has spared no expense in preparing for his visit, it remains to be seen how the pope will navigate the complex issues facing the country during his time in Timor-Leste.
Overall, Timor-Leste’s population is eager to welcome Pope Francis, who they view as a symbol of hope and inspiration. As one of the world’s poorest countries, heavily reliant on oil and gas revenues, the visit of the pope holds special significance for many. Despite the challenges facing the country, including economic hardship and allegations of government corruption and abuse within the Church, Francis has the potential to address these issues and offer support and guidance to the people of Timor-Leste. With his visit underway, many are hopeful that the pope will not only uplift the spirits of the country but also address the difficult issues that are plaguing the nation.
