Order Opens New Complex in East Timor

The President of East Timor, Dr. Ramos Horta (seen above with Prior General, Donatus Forkan), attended the inauguration of the Order’s new complex at Laclubar on 30 July 2010. The complex consists of a Mental Health Crisis Centre, a Formation Centre, a Community Residence and a Candidates’ House. In his speech President Horta said that this was one of the most significant developments in his country since it achieved independence from Indonesia in 2002.)

More than 2000 persons participated in the celebrations which lasted 18 hours! The chief church dignitary present was Bishop Basilio do Nascimento who invited the Order to East Timor and his diocese. Other civil dignitaries present included representatives of the Ministry of Health, Doctor Maira Herminia Cabral of Fundacao Gulbenekian which had contributed a substantial amount of money to the Project, the heads of the District of Manatuto and corresponding Sub -districts. Also present were many parish priests, religious and lay people.

Representing the Province of Portugal, to which the Mission of Laclubar belongs, was the Provincial, Br. Jose Augusto Gaspar Louro, the Provincial Secretary, Br. Alvero, the First Provincial Councillor, Br. Adelino and the Director of Saint John of God Fundraising Portugal.