East Timor

Capital: Dili

Major Languages: Tetum, Portuguese

Area: 15,007 km2

Population: 1.4 million

HDI Rank: 141 of 189

Major Religion:

Catholic: 1.3 million (97%)

Other Religions:

Protestant: 32,500 (2.5%)

Other: 6,500 (0.5%)

General Information:

East Timor is one of the world’s newest countries. The natives are descendants of the aboriginal of Australia. Colonized by the Portuguese during the 16th century and occupied for nearly 500 years, the nation declared itself free in 1975. But nine days later, the country was invaded by Indonesia. East Timor gained independence in 2002. One of the main tourist attractions in the country is “Cristo Rei of Dili”, a 27-meter-high statue of Jesus standing on a globe. After years of war and violence, the inhabitants enjoy a peaceful life. The most popular sport in the country is soccer.

Religious Background:

Catholicism is the dominant religion in East Timor, being one of the most densely Catholic countries in the world. There are also small Protestant and Muslim communities. The Constitution of East Timor protects the freedom of religion, and there is generally good relations between the three communities. Animistic beliefs and practices also play an important role in shaping the culture of the people of East Timor. Most citizens also retain some vestiges of animistic beliefs and practices, which they have come to regard as more cultural than religious.

Catholic background:

Catholicism was introduced in the country by the Dutch and Portuguese traders at the beginning of the 16th century. However, it was only after the colonization of East Timor by the Portuguese in 1642 that the popularity of Catholicism started to increase. The first known missionaries were the Dominicans. They sought to convert the local chieftains, along with the subjects. The converted rulers became vassals of Portugal. Jesuits arrived in 1898, and the Salesians in 1927. The Church is composed of one archdiocese, 2 dioceses and 58 parishes. Patron saint: None.

Prayer Points

1. Timorese to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior

Pray that everyone will get an opportunity to hear the gospel and come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

2. Catholics to know Christ

Pray for the salvation of 1.3 million Catholics in East Timor.
Most Catholics practice the religion in conjunction with animist traditions and rituals. Pray that they would have a clear understanding of the gospel, and follow Christ.
Pray for a mighty move of conviction and salvation upon the nation by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Pray for the conviction of the Holy Spirit as Catholics hear the gospel. Ask the Lord to give them receptive hearts to receive the gospel and trust Christ alone for their salvation.
Pray for all the Catholics attending the 58 parishes to come to know Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Pray for the cardinals, archbishops, bishops, 113 priests, 195 brothers and 289 sisters.
Pray for effective discipleship and grounding in the word of God for those who come to know the Lord.

3. Evangelicals to grow and multiply

Evangelical growth has been meagre and they are looked upon with suspicion by the Catholics. There is a great need for Christian workers and resources to reach the Timorese. Ask God to send forth His workers and resources for the mission. Pray that the Holy Spirit will grant supernatural boldness in generating opportunities to share the gospel.

4. Social evils and issues in the country

Poor health and illiteracy are prevalent and poverty is widespread. People are exposed to and suffer from gang attacks and violence. Pray for peace to prevail in the nation and that there would be overall wellness, and economic stability.

5. Other Religions

There are small communities of the followers of Islam, Jehovah’s Witness, Hinduism and Buddhism. Pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit on this nation and that many from these various religious traditions would come to know Christ.