Pope Francis in East Timor: 'Too many child abuses'

"Let us not forget so many children and adolescents whose dignity has been offended, the phenomenon is growing all over the world: we are all called to act responsibly to prevent all kinds of abuse and to guarantee a serene growth to our children". This was said by Pope Francis in his address to the authorities and civil society of East Timor, with implicit reference also to the cases of sexual abuse recorded in not too distant years among the ranks of the clergy.

Pope Francis has arrived in East Timor, the third stop on his 12-day trip to Asia and Oceania. The Pope's plane, coming from Port Moresby, landed at the international airport of the capital Dili. Officially welcoming Francis at the airport are the President of the Republic José Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão.

Upon his arrival, two children in traditional dress offered him flowers and a typical scarf, the tais. After the Guard of Honour and the greeting of the delegations, the Pope, the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister headed to the VIP Lounge for a brief conversation. Fourteen people in traditional dress, representing the 14 municipalities of the country, welcomed the Holy Father on the way to the VIP Lounge. At the end of the interview, Pope Francis left the airport and transferred by car to the Apostolic Nunciature in Dili, where he was welcomed at the entrance by the staff.

In the afternoon, the welcome ceremony at the Presidential Palace, the courtesy visit to the Head of State and the Pope's meeting with the authorities, civil society and the diplomatic corps are scheduled.

"I thank the Lord for bringing me to East Timor and encourage its people to live the joy of faith in harmony and dialogue with the culture. The best and most beautiful thing East Timor has is its people. I bless you from the bottom of my heart'. This is the text written in his own hand and signed by Pope Francis on the Book of Honour in the Presidential Palace in Dili.