Timor-Leste government has called on its citizens to actively participate and cooperate in the upcoming Apostolic Visit of Pope Francis from September 9 to 11, 2024.
“This is a historic moment for our country, and everyone’s warm and enthusiastic presence is essential to show our affection and hospitality to the Holy Father,” the Timor-Leste government said in a statement on Sept. 6.
“The Government of Timor-Leste invites the entire population to take an active part in the celebrations and to accompany His Holiness as he passes through the streets of Dili,” it added.
The government emphasized the need for the public to adhere to traffic restrictions in key areas of Dili during the three-day visit.
Several major roads will be blocked to accommodate the movements of the Pope, starting from his arrival on September 9, with a ceremony at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport at 2:10 p.m. Road closures around the airport, Nicolau Lobato Roundabout and the Presidential Palace will begin at noon on that day.
The centerpiece of the Pope’s visit will be a Holy Mass in Taci Tolu on September 10 at 4:30 p.m., with roadblocks affecting areas between the Apostolic Nunciature and the mass site.
His visit will also feature meetings with children, bishops, and Church members, with traffic restrictions in place on all major routes between his scheduled destinations, including the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
Timorese youth are invited to meet Pope Francis on the final day of his visit at the Dili Convention Center, where he is expected to deliver a message of hope and unity.
The government also highlighted the values of peace, fraternity, and solidarity that the visit represents, encouraging all citizens to join in the celebrations while maintaining order and cooperation.
