Condolence Statement by the Government of Timor-Leste following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis
Presidency of the Council of Ministers
Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste
Ninth Constitutional Government
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April 21st, 2025
Press Release
Condolence Statement by the Government of Timor-Leste following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis
Timor-Leste was deeply saddened to learn of His Holiness Pope Francis's death. He was a spiritual leader with an invaluable impact on humanity, a tireless defender of the most vulnerable, and a promoter of peace, justice, and fraternity among peoples.
His Holiness Pope Francis passed away in the Vatican on Monday, April 21st, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. (Rome time), at the age of 88.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17th, 1936, Jorge Mario Bergoglio joined the Society of Jesus. He dedicated his life to pastoral service, becoming Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and Cardinal in 2001. On March 13th, 2013, he was elected Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church, adopting the name Francis in reference to Saint Francis of Assisi, a symbol of humility and commitment to the poor.
He stood out for his unwavering dedication to social justice and inter-religious dialogue during his pontificate. He was a firm voice in promoting human rights and the dignity of people, inspiring millions of faithful worldwide with his messages of love, hope and solidarity.
Pope Francis visited Timor-Leste between September 9th and 11th, 2024, in a historic moment for our country. His apostolic visit brought together hundreds of thousands of Timorese in demonstrations of faith and devotion, with the highlight being the Eucharistic celebration in Tasi Tolu, attended by around 600,000 faithful. During his stay, he left a message of hope, unity, and commitment to peace, emphasising the importance of youth and the protection of the cultural and spiritual values of the Timorese people.
The Government Spokesperson and Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, Agio Pereira, recalling the recent visit of the Holy Father, Pope Francis, to Timor-Leste, expressed that this “was much more than a simple visit. It was a profound encounter with a people who had suffered so much in gaining their freedom and independence. The Holy Father arrived in Timor-Leste and conquered the hearts and souls of a nation, leaving a powerful message: that the Timorese people transform their faith into their culture, and they have succeeded. A culture of reconciliation, tolerance, and forgiveness. The culture of a people who place the values of peace, harmony, and solidarity at the highest level of their existence. Our people will be eternally grateful for the Holy Father's efforts in granting us this meeting – this sacred union”.
“On behalf of the Government and the Timorese”, the Government Spokesperson offers “heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church, the College of Cardinals, the people of Argentina and all the faithful worldwide”.
The Government informs that an extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers will be called for this Tuesday. At that meeting, a seven-day national mourning will be decreed, and the flag will be flown at half-mast in honour of His Holiness Pope Francis's memory.
At this time of mourning and prayer, Timor-Leste joins the millions of faithful worldwide in giving thanks for His Holiness Pope Francis's life and mission.
May he rest in peace. END
