DILI, East Timor (AP) — The Catholic Church in East Timor is facing allegations of clergy sexual abuse, with prominent figures like Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo and American missionary Richard Daschbach accused of molesting young boys and girls, respectively. Despite the Vatican's acknowledgment of the cases and sanctions imposed, many in East Timor continue to support these individuals, focusing on their roles in the country's fight for independence rather than the abuse allegations.
Pope Francis is set to visit East Timor, where the majority of the population is Catholic, but it remains uncertain if he will address the sex abuse scandals directly. The victims and advocates hope for an apology and acknowledgment from the Pope during his visit.
