Fr Joaquim Sarmento has been acting as an agent of God’s mercy since 1999.
He is one of 20 Jesuits working to transform lives in Timor-Leste. Here he
describes his life and work.
“I still remember the words of Jesus that inspired me
to become a Jesuit. Christ said, ‘I have come so that they
may have life, and have it in abundance’, and these
words continue to lead me almost two decades after
my ordination.
Our Jesuit life is always ‘on the move’, as we aim
to enact our Lord’s love in this needy world. TimorLeste
has a long history of conflict and poverty, and
with the help of our friends and supporters from
overseas we have been able to accompany the people
of Timor-Leste, and support them as they work to
overcome these obstacles.
Superior in Timor-Leste, holds the foundation stone for
a new Teacher Training Institute founded by Jesuit missionaries
with support from our Australian Jesuit community.
Jesuits in Timor-Leste work to support the development
work of the Church and the Government, mainly in
the areas of education and social services. Both rely on
our collaboration, and we in turn rely on financial help
from overseas.
In the field, the support we gather from our friends and
benefactors from abroad is always so encouraging
and inspiring for us. We are thankful for all the gifts
of prayers, donations to our work, and the solidarity
of generous people.
We are motivated to serve God and his people, and the
financial support we receive from our friends abroad
has given us a big push forward the past several years.
But still, a lot needs to be done. The country is in
a condition that needs continuous support.”
Read more in link below.