If we do our work with love, even when we are tired, it will bring us joy.
Having been a member of CSIL over three years as Director of Formation and now the Director of the school for ten months, Fr. Calisto remain to have faith in God’s providence. As he said, he always prays before God, in everything he does. “I ask God to watch over my duties and help me accomplish […]
The Essence of Pursue Education in Instituto São João de Brito (ISJB)
In this edition of our newsletter, we’re excited to feature an inspiring interview with Basilio Soares Maia, a dedicated student at ISJB. Founded by the Jesuits, ISJB is committed to training exceptional educators equipped with deep knowledge, professional ethics and, a holistic approach to teaching. Basilio chose ISJB for its comprehensive training methods, which emphasize […]
Pope Francis Inspires Timor-Leste’s Youth with Love, Service, and Respect for Tradition”
On the final day of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Visit to Timor-Leste, he met with the nation’s youth in a joyful and inspiring encounter. The excitement was high as young people from across the country gathered to hear the Pope’s message of love, unity, and responsibility. He urged them to turn away from hatred and embrace […]
“Uniting Faith and Action: Addressing Timor’s Ecological Crisis”
In a time of immense environmental challenges—from climate change to biodiversity loss—the world urgently needs a moral and spiritual response. The ecological crisis threatens not only the planet but also the livelihoods and dignity of countless people, especially the most vulnerable. In recognition of this, the Jesuits have made ecology a central part of their […]
Spotlight on Manuel Mendonça Araujo: A Journey of Vocation at Instituto São João de Brito (ISJB)
Since joining the Instituto São João de Brito (ISJB) in January 2018, Manuel Mendonça Araujo has made significant contributions as a full-time lecturer in the English department. Guided by the principles of Jesuit and Inclusive Education, Manuel is dedicated to helping others, spreading faith, and striving to make a positive impact in the lives of […]
DEO GRATIAS!
(Reflections from Fr. Joaquim Sarmento, SJ as a Personal Assistant during Pope Francis visits in Timor-Leste) The ‘shock’ is over. Only at this point, I start to gain full consciousness on how great was the privilege and honor the Bishops entrusted to me to assist the Holy Father Pope Francis in his recent visit to […]
“Ramelau Mountain: A Sacred Journey of Devotion to the Virgin Mary in Timor-Leste”
Timor-Leste is a small and beautiful country, where faith is at the heart of its people’s lives. The Timorese have a deep connection to the Catholic faith, and central to that devotion is the Virgin Mary. For generations, she has been seen as a source of comfort, guidance, and protection. Every May and October, this […]
Three Days with Pope Francis: Timor-Leste Feels Blessed and Nostalgic
In 1989, Pope John Paul II visited Timor-Leste when our country had been invaded by the Indonesian military since 1975. Many Timorese people died in the war; we lost our parents, brothers, sisters, relatives and, loved ones. Timor-Leste is a country that has endured immense suffering, but Pope John Paul II’s visit became a turning […]
“ONWARD WITH CORAGEOUS PRUDENCE” Jesuits Meeting with Pope Francis
10 September 2024 Nunciature, Dili, Timor-Leste Transcript of the Meeting by Fr. Antonio Spadaro, SJ After meeting with bishops, priests and consecrated persons in Dili Cathedral, Pope Francis met with 42 Jesuits from the country at around 11 a.m. on September 10. After the greetings, the regional superior, Erik John Gerilla, addressed a brief greeting […]
Meeting the Pope: Self-Reflections from Jesuit
The excitement in the air was palpable as the Pope visited our midst. In the days leading up to his arrival in Timor-Leste, I closely followed his talks and meetings in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. When his plane finally touched down at Dili Airport, I felt immense relief, grateful for his safe travel and […]