Sis Laura Richards writes:
In January, our family of six had the privilege of spending a week in Timor-Leste, sharing fellowship and encouraging brothers, sisters, and friends across Dili. Timor-Leste is one of the youngest nations in the world, known for its resilient people and strong family culture: its people have endured a lot of hardship.
We arrived in the heart of the wet season and were greeted by tropical rain and warm smiles from familiar faces. We base ourselves at Timor Lodge, where our days are filled with visits from various brothers and sisters. From our first Sunday memorial together with four of the brothers and sisters, we were encouraged by thoughtful discussion and heartfelt questions.
Throughout the week, opportunities for connection came in many forms. We visited the University of Timor Lorosa’e, where final-year English students eagerly practised conversation and discussed the challenges of teaching English. We then explain what we are in Timor Leste for and invite them back to discuss the Bible. In the past, many of the brothers and sisters had begun learning about the Truth this way. During the evenings we spent time discussing various parts of the Bible with whoever came around. Stories such as Ruth’s journey of faith resonated deeply with one new sister. We also spent some time discussing some of the challenges in ecclesial life in Dili at the moment, including brothers currently working in Australia, or other members living in the villages.
Our children were a bridge of their own—forming quick friendships with two of the sisters’ children, sharing laughter, swimming, building Lego, and watching ‘Footsteps’ together. Their joy reminded us how naturally fellowship can cross cultures and languages.
We were also blessed to reconnect with a few brothers who had travelled significant distances to spend time with us in Dili. These moments highlighted the commitment within the Timorese brotherhood, often expressed through great personal effort. Our final memorial meeting was had in Hera, an hour’s drive in a truck from Dili, with some of the brothers and sisters who live there.
As we packed to leave, we were struck by how much we had gained from the trip through conversations, encouragement, and faith shared freely. Timor-Leste may be small and developing, but the faith of our brothers and sisters is rich, sincere, and inspiring.
For further information, please email: easttimor@acbm.org.au
