Saturday 1 May 2015 was a memorable day in the life of the people of Baucau and indeed for the people of the entire country of Timor Leste when it held a special Mass in the Cathedral and the Blessing and Opening of the new building at the The Instituto Católico Para a Formação de Professores (ICFP), in Baucau.
In his address on the occasion, Peter Corr, as Director of ICFP, acknowledged those who made the vision of a new learning and teaching facility a reality.
Peter made mention of Dom Basilio do Nascimento, the Bishop of Baucau, for his support and commitment to the Marist Brothers and to the people of Timor; to the Marist Brothers for their provision of Brothers and funds, searched through Marist Solidarity; to Mark Paul, for his vision and commitment to the establishment of the institute; to Fons van Rooij, for his vision, focus and ability to manage this project, which were most important to the design and completion of this new building; to the Builder, the overseas donors and the work of Allen Sherry and his Marist Solidarity Team in their securing of funds from a number of donors from countries including Germany, Italy, Holland and Ireland.
All, Peter said, “have made big commitments, trusting that the result of their support would be the qualification of much needed teachers and an improvement in the daily lives of many Timorese into the future. These teachers are helping to develop the education sector in Timor‐Leste.”
A number of dignitaries were present at the Blessing and Opening, including the in‐country representative of the Apostolic Nuncio, the Baucau Municipal Administrator, the former Minister for Education and representatives of the Minister of Education and the Australian embassy.
In thanking the builder and his team from BIMAVI, Peter described the building, its environment and resources as “truly outstanding”.
Peter spoke about the hope and commitment which the new building engenders: “The hope that education brings to the lives of the young people.
The commitment of Brothers and lay and the Church in Timor‐Leste and around the world to be with the people of Timor‐Leste as your new nation emerges”.
Peter, who delivered his entire address in Tetum, appropriately concluded: “Obrigadu no Maromak nia bénsaun ba ita hotu” (Thank you and God bless).
Following the formal function, a large number of ICFP students and staff, and guests enjoyed a typical celebratory feast in the new building.
To donate or learn more about ICFP click here.
Br Paul Kane
Assistant Provincial