In his message he stated: “This is an important moment to make us remember our history as a sovereign country, where the prosperity of of the people was wrought after much struggles and challenges. With a spirit of nationalism, all have toiled and worked for the development and welfare of the nation, and today Timor-Leste is a mature, independent sovereign country”.
The Salesian Congregation together with the Salesian Family has been present on this nation for a long time and has ceaselessly worked and contributed to the development of the state. They have offered the best of their resources in the service of education and evangelization to the young people in the schools, parishes, youth centers and others.
The provincial Fr. Apolinario, in his message recalled the words of St. John Paull II his Apostolic letter Novo Millennio Ineunte: “Let us remember the past with gratitude, live the present with enthusiasm, and look at the future with confidence.” The words of St. John Paul II to the Timorese, on his visit to East Timor (Timor-Timur) in 1989 cannot be forgotten: “You are the Salt of the Earth and You are the Light of the World. Your country really needs reconciliation to establish peace, stability and good life.” He exhorted everyone to remember this powerful message and contribute one’s best for the growth of the nation.
Fr. Apolinario concluded his message stating: “Let us take moments of silence to remember our heroes who have sacrificed their lives for our independence. God has a plan for us. He has plan for our prosperity and future. He is our Alpha and Omega. Nothing happens out of his control as the Latin expression goes: “Deus Ex Machina”, He will continue to guide our nation and bless us. May God Bless Timor-Leste. Happy 20th Restoration of Independence to all!”
