Fr General Arturo Sosa flanked by Regional Assistant for Asia-Pacific Fr José Magadia on the left and Regional Assistant for South Asia Fr George Mutholil on the right
Jesuit Superior General Fr Arturo Sosa has arrived in Timor-Leste for a three-day apostolic journey, from 2 to 4 February.
This is Fr Sosa’s first trip to the majority Catholic nation and one of the youngest countries in the world. Father General is expected to immerse himself in the country’s faith and culture and engage in meaningful dialogues with various groups and communities.
His first order of business was a courtesy call on Archbishop Virgílio do Carmo da Silva SDB and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão. He likewise visited the Resistance Museum and spent some time in the mountain parish of Railaco.
Fr General Arturo Sosa SJ and Archbishop Virgílio do Carmo da Silva SDB
On the second day, 3 February, he will serve as the main celebrant in the graduation Mass of Instituto São João de Brito, a Jesuit teacher-training institution. Father General will also deliver an inspirational message to all the graduates. Following the graduation ceremony, he will visit the various works of the Jesuits at their residence in Taibessi and pay his respects to the departed Jesuits buried in the gardens. Later in the evening, he will participate in a dinner gathering with friends, collaborators, supporters, alumni, and families of the local Jesuits.
On his last day before flying back to Rome, Fr Sosa will celebrate a Mass with the novices, scholastics, and various youth groups, including Magis and parish youth, to be followed by reflective conversations. This is a significant part of Father General’s journey, as the majority of Timor’s population comprises young people—about 70 percent are under the age of 30—and most local Timorese Jesuits are still in formation.
The region prays that the visit of the Superior General will be a joyous celebration of faith and hope, affirming the works of the Jesuits in the country, their connections, and community life in the spirit of synodality and service to the people of Timor-Leste.
