By Br. Amilcar da Silva, SDB
Dili, Timor Leste, March 19, 2016 - Today marks another important day in the 500 years long history of Catholic Church in Timor Leste. The new bishop of Dili diocese assumes his ministry. Farther Virgilio do Carmo da Silva, SDB, the former Superior of the ITM Vice-province is ordained to Bishop on the Feastday of St Joseph during the open air Eucharist in Tasi-Tolu, Dili – Timor Leste at 9 AM.
During this celebration participated another seven bishops, including the main celebrant – Apostolic Nuncio, a great number of priest from all 3 Timor dioceses (Dili, Baucau and Maliana), seminarians, religious brothers and sisters as well the dignitaries of the RDTL and government, with thousands of Catholics gathered from all 3 Timor Leste dioceses.
The highlight of the homily, given by Bishop Joseph Marino, the Apostolic Nuncio to RDTL, in particular to the priest and lay faithful of Dili diocese: “Gladly welcome the new bishop, respect him and listen to him. Those who welcome him, welcome the One who sends him and those who reject him, reject the one who sends him.” To the new Bishop: “Remember, that the title of bishop is not a honour, but it is to render service, a Bishop means to serve, not to rule.”
Before the end of the celebration, Bishop Virgilio do Carmo da Silva blessed the gathering and expressed his gratitude to the whole People of God of Timor Leste.
The Salesians and members of the Salesian Family of Timor Leste – Indonesia (ITM viceprovince) wish to the beloved confrere and bishop: ‘BOM APOSTULADO’ and assure him with fervent prayers.
In the meantime the Rector Major Fr. Angel F. Artime in his letter to the ITM confreres (March 15) wrote:
'I entrust the diocese of Bishop Virgilio to the protection of Our Lady and send cordial greetings ahead of his episcopal ordination.'
'According the art. 168 of the Constitutions the vice provincial takes the place of the Superior of a Vice province - now from the day of appointment of Fr. Virgilio as Bishop until the installation of the new Superior, the Vice-provincial, Fr. Neto Ornai Apolinario Maria has taken the responsibility as the Superior of the ITM viceprovince in matters of ordinary administration.
