A Historic Arrival: Setting Foot in a Long-Suffering Land
Fr. Rolando arrived in Timor-Leste on 24 January 1983, the Feast of St. Francis de Sales, during one of the most turbulent periods in the nation’s history. After a short stay in Dili, he was assigned to Fatumaca, where he immediately began teaching and dedicating himself to the education and evangelisation of young people. Amid poverty, hardship and political unrest, his Salesian vocation flourished as he committed himself to forming honest citizens and good Christians according to Don Bosco’s preventive system.
Much of his missionary life unfolded in Baucau, where his pastoral and educational leadership left an enduring mark on the local Church and society.
The Founder of ESSA Teulale
Fr. Rolando became the founding principal of Escola Secundária Santo António (ESSA) in Teulale, Baucau. Under his firm yet fatherly guidance, the school developed into one of the country’s most respected secondary institutions, forming generations of professionals, community leaders and religious vocations.
The Miraculous Youth Cross (Cruz Joven)
In 1993, inspired by St. John Paul II’s World Youth Day initiative, Fr. Rolando introduced the “Cruz Joven” (Youth Cross) pilgrimage in Timor-Leste. Carried by young people from parish to parish, the Cross became a powerful symbol of faith, unity and hope during challenging years. Today, it remains deeply rooted in the spiritual life of the nation and continues to inspire youth across the country.
Giving God’s Word a Timorese Voice: The Media Center and Bible Translation
Recognising the importance of inculturation, Fr. Rolando established the Salesian Media Center in Dili to promote Catholic formation and communication. His most significant contribution was leading the translation of the Holy Bible and liturgical texts into Tetum, enabling the faithful to pray and encounter God’s Word in their own language. This milestone strengthened both the Church’s pastoral mission and the cultural identity of the Timorese people.
In recognition of his outstanding service to education, evangelisation and nation-building, the National Parliament of Timor-Leste granted him official Timorese citizenship.
A Tearful Farewell: “Age is Just a Number”
The farewell celebration was marked by gratitude and emotion. Representatives of the Salesian Family—including the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Salesian Cooperators, past pupils and Church leaders—paid tribute to a missionary who dedicated his life entirely to the youth of Timor-Leste.
As he now begins a new chapter of missionary service in Bolivia, Fr. Rolando leaves behind a living legacy in countless hearts. His unwavering zeal at 84 stands as a testimony that missionary passion knows no age. Timor-Leste bids him a heartfelt “Obrigado barak” and accompanies him with prayers as he continues to serve Don Bosco’s mission abroad.
