On July 30-31, 2024, the Jesuits of the East Timor Region (ETR) celebrated two significant milestones, namely, “the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the 125th anniversary of the Jesuit mission in Soibada, Manatuto, Timor-Leste. In addition, it was also the celebration of the 25 years of Fr. Joaquim Sarmento, SJ, as the first Jesuitpriest from Soibada.
The Jesuit mission in Soibada began in 1897 when Fr. António Antunes, a secular clergyman, established the Missão de Soibada. Two Jesuits, Fr. Sebastião Maria Aparício da Silva and Fr. Manuel Fernandes Ferreira, were then entrusted with constructing the Church of Sagrado Coração de Jesus and their residence. The construction began in 1900 and was completed four years later, in 1904. (text from JCAP article)
Different Jesuit communities, including fathers, brothers, collaborators, friends, students, and alumni from Colégio de Santo Inácio de Loiola Kasait, gathered in Soibada to celebrate the three milestones of the Jesuit mission in the region. The celebration featured a pilgrimage walk, Holy mass, an exhibition of Jesuit apostolic work, the unveiling of a plaque dedicated to Fr. Aparício, a screening of the film “The Mission and Istoria Missionasaun ho Domin” (produced by Casa de Produção Audiovisual).
During the pilgrimage participants walked together, reflecting on the rich history of St. Ignatius of Loyola at various stations, culminating at the Soibada parish built by the Jesuits over a century ago. Despite the challenging weather, including heavy rains and difficult road conditions, which added to the pilgrimage’s spirit, everyone was joyful to reach the final destination. The event concluded with a Mass presided over by Fr. Erik John Gerilla, SJ, the Regional Superior, at the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora de Aitara, Soibada, attended by all pilgrims and the local community.
The following morning, despite the cold, rainy, and cloudy weather, everyone gathered for the Holy Mass, celebrating the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola at 10:30 a.m. The Jesuit community was especially grateful to Bishop Dom Leandro Maria Alves of the Baucau Diocese for presiding the Mass. It was attended by the Jesuits their collaborators, students, alumni, and the local community in Soibada.
After the Mass, Bishop Leandro expressed his gratitude, stating, “Religious and parishioners, let us pray and thank God for continuing to bless the Society of Jesus, ensuring that they can grow in vocation and carry out their mission in Timor.” Following the final blessing, the Bishop congratulated the Society of Jesus in East Timor on its 125th anniversary, as well as Fr. Joaquim Sarmento, SJ, who celebrated his 25 years as a Jesuit priest.
On the same day, Fr. Erik John J. Gerilla, SJ, Regional Superior of the East Timor Region, and Bishop Dom Leandro Maria Alves of the Baucau Diocese, signed a commemorative plaque recognizing the long-standing contributions of the Jesuit mission in Soibada. The plaque honors Fr. Sebastião Aparício da Silva, SJ, his companions, and all Jesuits who have followed in their footsteps over the past century. Their dedication has significantly impacted Timor-Leste, particularly in the field of education.
The local population, including the Datos and community leaders expressed their appreciation for the Jesuits’ contributions. They highlighted how the Jesuits’ early missions provided educational opportunities and empowerment to the local people, a legacy that continues to benefit the community even after the Jesuits left Soibada many years ago.
Fr. Joaquim Sarmento, SJ, remarked, “Soibada is a historical site. I am grateful for the Jesuit mission established here a century ago, especially for Fr. Sebastião Maria Aparício da Silva, who founded this place. Soibada, was one of the most isolated areas in Timor-Leste, but is now widely recognized, partly due to the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora de Aitara, and has also become a National Religious Pilgrimage site.”
By: ETR Communications