United in Love in Timor Leste

In remote Oe-Cusse, Timor Leste the congregation gathered in a solemn atmosphere of worship. They praise God and hear His Word with fervour. The humble church building did not prevent them from growing in faith in Christ. Most of them did not have a Bible. Only a few have, and even then the Bibles are already in use. Please understand, since Timor Leste separated from Indonesia more than 22 years ago, owning a Bible has been a dream.

“We have difficulty in being able to have a Bible. Bibles are only available in Kupang or Dili. The cost of transport to get there is expensive," said a member of the congregation we met. "We grew up reading the Bible in Indonesian, only a few can read in Dawan Timorese," he continued.

For them, having their own Bible is a big dream — a symbol that God is truly present in their home. Praise God, with the support of Friends of the Bible and donor partners, LAI answered that longing by bringing 5,193 Bibles and parts to Christians in Timor Leste.

This cross-border journey was not without its challenges. We went through a long road journey, hot temperatures, and unfriendly road conditions as well as crossing the sea. But every swing of the step felt light, as we imagined the smiles of the many parishioners awaiting our arrival.

When the Bibles arrived, and were then handed over, the faces of the servants of God, adults, youth and children were beaming with joy.

“I'm glad I have my own Bible, I can now read God's word every day,\rdquo; said a child in Balibar Dili.

Today God's word is truly alive in the people of Timor Leste; strengthening faith, igniting hope, and uniting the hearts of people in two nations.

This journey is not just a distribution of Scripture. It is a journey of presenting God's love that moves LAI's friends and partners to cross national and cultural boundaries. "If you want to see the face of Jesus, come to Timor Leste," said Pastor Dominggus Alves, Chairman of the IPTL Synod, after we handed over the Bibles and parts supported by the One in Love (SDK) programme. The SDK trip in Timor Leste lasted for a week, between 21-27 September 2025.

In Timor Leste we felt God's presence and inclusion. However, of course the "face" of God is not only there. There are many other places in remote parts of Indonesia and neighbouring countries that long for the presence of God's word in their midst. Christ loves them too and His face is present there. We too are invited to greet and share love in their midst. Each Bible sent brings light and hope to those who thirst for righteousness.

Let us support and participate in this ministry of love through prayer, proclamation, and donation. Become God's co-workers, bringing the Good News to the ends of the earth.(alpha)