Summary
- Pope Francis celebrates Mass at a seaside park in East Timor, following in the footsteps of St. John Paul II who visited during the nation’s fight for independence.
- East Timor remains one of the poorest countries, with high unemployment and limited job opportunities.
- Despite challenges, the overwhelmingly Catholic population turns out in droves to welcome the pope.
- Francis commends progress made by East Timor since independence and advocates for strengthening public institutions and caring for the vulnerable.