Pope Francis Advocates for Protection of Young People in Timor-Leste Amid Abuse Scandal

Pope Francis Calls for Protection of Young People in Timor-Leste

Pope Francis, during his historic visit to Timor-Leste, emphasized the urgent need to safeguard the dignity and well-being of young people. In a poignant speech, he declared, “Let us not forget so many children and adolescents whose dignity has been wounded. This phenomenon is surfacing all over the world.” He called upon everyone to act responsibly to prevent all forms of abuse and to foster a nurturing environment for the growth of young individuals.

This statement served as an indirect acknowledgment of the ongoing abuse scandal surrounding Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and a celebrated independence hero in the nation. Belo, who previously held the position of head of the Catholic Church in Timor-Leste, has faced serious sexual abuse allegations that have cast a shadow over his legacy.

Two prominent figures within the Catholic community of Timor-Leste are currently embroiled in allegations of sexual misconduct, with Belo being the most notable case. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1996, he is revered for his pivotal role in leading the country toward independence from Indonesia in 2002. However, his tenure took a drastic turn when he abruptly resigned the same year, citing health concerns. Following his resignation, he was relocated to Mozambique for missionary work before eventually moving to Portugal.

In 2022, the Vatican publicly acknowledged that Belo had been secretly sanctioned from interacting with children or returning to Timor-Leste after credible allegations surfaced regarding his sexual abuse of underage boys over a span of two decades. This revelation has sparked outrage and calls for accountability within the Church.

During his visit, after delivering his impactful speech at the Presidential Palace, Pope Francis took the time to meet with children with disabilities at the Irmas Alma School in Dili, the capital of East Timor. He received a heartfelt welcome from both the nuns and the children, illustrating the warmth and hope that the community exudes despite the surrounding controversies.

The Pope later visited the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Dili, where he engaged with religious officials, seminarians, and catechists, further solidifying his connection with the Catholic community of the nation. Timor-Leste, being the most Catholic country outside of the Vatican, was eager to welcome the pontiff, marking a significant moment as he became the first pope to visit the nation since its independence.

This visit marks the third stop of Pope Francis’s extensive 12-day tour across Southeast Asia and Oceania, following his earlier stops in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. After concluding his visit to Timor-Leste, the Pope is set to travel to Singapore before returning to Rome on September 13.