Signs of hope in the East Timor tragedy. Bishop Basilio do Nascimento, Apostolic Administrator of Baucau, communicated that the Canosian and Salesian Sisters present in East Timor, are safe and active in assisting the Timorese population. The Canosian Sisters of the Manatuto, Baucau, Ossù and Lospalos communities, are well, though day after day they share in the sufferance, fatigue and fears of their people. Salesian Sister Paola Battagliola, left her home in Dili for the first time yesterday to go to the hospital in search of medicine and food. She then courageously brought the supplies to the foot of the mountains where many are hidden after escaping the inferno of Dili. Recent reports also indicate that the Salesian Sisters of the Laga community, north-east of the capital of East Timor, may arrive in Dili today. Though communications are down, also Salesian Sister Alma Castagna of the Venilale community and the sisters with her, have been confirmed safe for the moment. These reports are undoubtedly a sign of hope and reassurance, given that so many missionaries have remained by their people despite the extreme personal risk. (BO)
MISNA - Missionary Service News Agency