On the occasion of the Feast Day of Nossa Senhora de Fátima (Our Lady of Fátima) celebrated on May 13, the East Timor Region highlights the inspiring experiences of two outstanding students from Nossa Senhora de Fatima (NOSSEF), a Catholic school in Railaco, Timor-Leste, run by the Jesuits: Simplicio J. de C. Babo (18) and Garilcia M. F. Betek (16). Their stories show how this special celebration, and their time at NOSSEF, has strengthened their faith, talents, and relationship with Mother Mary.

The Feast Day celebration at NOSSEF is marked by a variety of meaningful activities and competitions that bring together the entire school community. Students actively participate in sports, cultural performances, and academic competitions that encourage friendship, teamwork, and personal growth.

“As part of the organising committee, I helped coordinate the event and also took part in several competitions,” Simplicio said. “We held sports competitions among all NOSSEF students, including volleyball, basketball, and futsal, and I participated in all of them.”

Photo: The volleyball competitions among students at NOSSEF, Railaco.

Started from the first week to second week of May, the school came alive with joyful celebrations. Students showcased their talents through solo guitar performances, fashion shows, traditional dances, solo singing, Choir performances, floor dance competitions, poetry presentations, quizzes, and public speaking activities.

Photo: Garilcia with her partner in Fashion Show competition are on the stage showing their talent.

Garilcia is among the students who participated in the fashion show, floor dance, and traditional dance performances together with her classmates and friends.

“Apart from the performances, I also joined the basketball and futsal teams to represent my class,” she explained.

Beyond the celebrations, both students reflected on how their experiences at NOSSEF have helped them grow personally, academically, and spiritually.

“I have participated in many activities as a member of the Student Association,” Simplicio said. He also shared how joining the Portuguese and English language clubs has helped him improve his communication skills and better understand the languages.

Simplicio also shared that “NOSSEF does not only teach science and academics, but also helps us grow spiritually. I feel encouraged to love God more and follow Him closely”.

Through sharing sessions, retreats, the Via-Sacra, and praying the Rosary during the months of May and October dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Simplicio finds many opportunities to deepen his faith as both a student and a Catholic.

Photo: A group of students include Simplicio in Sharing Sessions or they called it, a BC in the corner of Railaco Parish next to their school.

For Garilcia, now in her second year at NOSSEF, the school environment has helped her grow in confidence.

“At first, during my first trimester last year, I was very shy,” she recalled. “Personally, I really enjoy the sharing sessions we have because they give me the opportunity to express my knowledge and experiences with classmates and students from different grades.”

Like Simplicio, Garilcia also participates in the English club, which she says has helped her become more confident.

“The English club really supports me to grow in confidence because I can learn from foreign volunteers from Australia, practice English conversations with friends, and also have opportunities to guide benefactors and donors when they visit NOSSEF,” she explained.

Alongside academic growth, Garilcia continues to nurture her spiritual life. “My most precious moments at NOSSEF are when we pray the Rosary together during May and October, and during our First Friday Masses with students and teachers. I truly enjoy these moments,” she shared.

Photo: Students and Teachers at NOSSEF are gathering to move the statue of Mother Mary from one class to another classroom.

Simplicio also described his deep relationship with Mother Mary and the important role Our Lady of Fátima plays in his daily life. “I think my relationship with Our Lady of Fátima is very strong. Since my first year here, and now in my third year, every day when I arrive at school, I visit the grotto first to greet Mother Mary, and I do the same before going home,” he said.

He added that Mother Mary has become a powerful intercessor in his life, especially during examinations and difficult moments. “When exams come at the end of the trimester, I always pray to the Virgin Mary to take care of me and give me grace. Praying the Rosary together with friends has deepened my faith in God. I truly experience Mother Mary’s presence in both my studies and spiritual life.”

As the interview came to an end, both students shared their hopes and dreams for the future.

Simplicio hopes to become a person who contributes positively to society.

“I do not ask for too much. I simply hope to become a good person in society, someone who creates positive change and helps others. Maybe one day, I can become a good leader,” he said.

Meanwhile, Garilcia dreams of becoming a doctor.

Both students also expressed their gratitude for the opportunities provided through the Feast Day celebrations and extracurricular activities at NOSSEF.

“We believe these activities help strengthen the relationship between students and teachers, while also helping students express their talents,” they agreed.

Before concluding, Garilcia encouraged her fellow students to take part actively in school activities.

“Do not be shy to participate in events and extracurricular activities at NOSSEF because they help you grow and develop. Take advantage of every opportunity,” she said.

Photo: Garilcia, in the second middle one, wearing a blue uniform among four of the girls, is playing Basketball for sports competitions.

Simplicio likewise reminded students about the true meaning behind the celebrations and competitions.

“When we celebrate the Feast Day of NOSSEF and win competitions, we should remain humble. And if we lose, we should stay courageous and continue placing God at the center, because everything we do is for the greater glory of God.”

Written by:

Iriana Soares, ETR Communications Officer