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August 28, 2025
Leaders of the East Timor Community in Cambridge (ETICC) recently met with Fr John Minh to discuss key aspects of the community’s spiritual life, including Mass scheduling, preparations for Baptism and First Holy Communion, and their hopes for the forthcoming Jubilee Year.
The meeting was marked by a spirit of collaboration and mutual support. At the heart of the conversation was the challenge of arranging Masses in a way that both reflects the needs of the growing East Timorese Catholic community and fits alongside the existing liturgical life of the local parishes. Various possibilities were explored, from adjusting the timing of Masses to introducing a rotating schedule across different churches in the Cambridge area.
Another central theme was the preparation of children and families for the sacraments of Baptism and First Holy Communion. The community leaders and Fr John stressed the importance of catechesis and pastoral accompaniment, ensuring that candidates are supported not only in faith instruction but also in their sense of belonging within the parish family. Plans under consideration include catechetical workshops, retreats, and community gatherings.
ETICC expressed deep gratitude to Fr Robin Mampallithadathil CRM, Priest-in-Charge of St Laurence’s Parish in Cambridge, his Assistant Priest, Fr Alex Vadasseril CRM, and the parishioners, for their generosity in welcoming the East Timorese community and providing St Laurence’s as a home for their liturgical and pastoral activities.
Looking ahead, the Jubilee Year was also discussed with enthusiasm. ETICC members are eager to take part in the diocesan celebrations and to contribute actively to the spirit of renewal through prayer, charity, and reconciliation. The community also hopes to extend its support to East Timorese living in surrounding areas, helping to strengthen both faith and fellowship.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue building up the life of the Church in Cambridge. It was a moment of encouragement, reflecting both the vibrancy of the East Timorese faithful and the strong bonds of communion being forged with the wider diocesan family.
Contributed by Adrito Do Nascimento.
