[Eva and Georgina Represent Timor-Leste at CHE Conference in Malaysia]

Representing the Community Health and Education (CHE) team at Jesuit Social Service–Timor-Leste, Dra. Eva de Jesus and Georgina Soares recently attended an international CHE conference in Penang, Malaysia. Joined by 58 participants from over 16 Southeast Asian countries, the event brought together Christian communities, NGOs, CHE partners, and individual leaders for a powerful exchange of skills and inspiration.

“Community Health and Education is about empowering communities,” – Dr. Eva de Jesus She emphasized that CHE is not charity—but capacity building. By helping people understand how to respond to their own health needs and challenges, communities gain independence and dignity.

For example, in Jesuit Social Service’s local programs like health promotion and water sanitation, the CHE method encourages people to:

• Respond confidently to common health issues like coughs or colds
• Use local remedies and rest
• Collaborate between villages to protect clean water sources

One of the most meaningful parts of the conference was Bible sharing, which reminded Dr. Eva of the power of Scripture in daily life. “Sometimes we forget to share the Good News. We leave the Bible on the pulpit. But it must be read, reflected on, and lived.” – she shared.

She also found inspiration in leadership training: “It’s not enough to just give information. We must walk with the people, belong to the community, and accompany them.”– Dr. Eva

Finding God in All Things

For Georgina, the conference highlighted how God’s Word should guide learning and action. “CHE teaches us to live according to the Bible—not just read it. It’s about reflecting, obeying, and growing from it.”– Georgina

A session on Healthy Business particularly moved her, “Your hobby can become your business. If a mother knows how to cook, she can turn that into a livelihood. Instead of crying about life, we can use our gifts to support ourselves and others,” explained Georgina.

Mission, Not Just Work

For both Dr. Eva and Georgina, their daily work is not just a career—it’s a mission.

“God works every day. If we do our work for Him, it will bear good fruit.”

Returning home, they are committed to beginning every community session with Bible sharing, then moving into practical, participatory health promotion. Whether it’s teaching parents how to care for children, or encouraging village collaboration, their focus is always to serve both body and soul.

“Our mission is not only to heal the sick, but to bring souls closer to God.” – Dr. Eva & Georgina.

With your continued support, the work of the CHE and CSDO teams in Timor-Leste is transforming communities—physically, spiritually, and socially.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

[Writer: Iriana Soares–ETR Communications Officer]