In the spirit of the Jubilee Year 2025, dedicated to hope and renewal, Pope Francis has reminded us that ‘in the pilgrimage of Christian life, a new beginning is always possible.’
They are words that resonate particularly with Clintino, a seminarian in Timor-Leste. Growing up in a family who experience significant financial constraints, Clintino decided to follow his calling to make a new beginning and to serve others, despite the financial struggles this entails. Inspired by the words of Jesus, Clintino hopes to become a priest, providing pastoral and other support to communities and ensuring everyone hears the word of God.
‘The thing that inspires me every day is the word of Jesus: “I am the way, the truth and the life,”’ says Clintino.
As well as being leaders in faith, priests play a vital role in supporting communities around the world through education, health and social services. Despite the need for their support, aspiring priests often face a long learning timeframe, and with limited resources in the seminary, this can become a significant hurdle in completing their studies.
Timor-Leste has a population that is 97 per cent Catholic, making it one of the most Catholic countries in the world, reflecting the deep integration of faith into everyday life. Priests in Timor-Leste not only play a significant role in the spiritual life of this predominantly Catholic nation but also support community development, especially in remote and underserved areas.
Clintino’s story shows how pursuing a calling can come with financial strain for seminarians and their families, as many families rely on younger generations to become breadwinners. By choosing a different path, Clintino faces mounting struggles, including difficulties meeting the costs of seminary education.
Catholic Mission invites you to support future Church leaders like Clintino and their communities. Your donation can help train seminarians, giving them the opportunity to pursue their calling and sustain the mission of hope and renewal that Pope Francis named as core to this Jubilee Year. Visit www.catholicmission.org.au/lent and help seminarians bring hope to communities in need.
Banner image: Clintino, a young seminarian in Timor-Leste, on his path to priesthood. (Photo by Catholic Mission.)
