Timor Awakening
by MCF members Gary Stone and Eric Bettanin (former MCF Treasurer) Photo – Gary and Eric ‘on top of the world’ in Timor 2024. The program is still running today with info at the bottom of the page to find out how to apply….read on to find out more about this wonderful program….
From Gary Stone on the Gold Coast
I’m writing this after just completing our 27th Timor awakening program, in Timor , bringing together about 41 Australian and New Zealand veterans ,some of their partners and other family members .
A particular highlight of this program was that I was able to share it completely with former MCF treasurer LTCOL Eric Betanin who is now Australia’s senior officer leading the Defence Cooperation Program (DCP) in Timor. Eric met us at the Airport and welcomed us, even driving me in a DCP car for us over 600km in rural Timor. I hadn’t met Eric before and was delighted with his enthusiasm, energy, faith hope and love as we shared in myriad activities. We were also able to share our own experiences of nurture through MCF.
We had a 12 day program travelling to all the key sites of ANZAC involvement both in WW2 and from 1999 onwards , reflection on all the key holistic health themes of nurturing the body, nurturing the mind, nurturing the soul, nurturing our relationships, and developing a positive identity and life’s purpose.
We also participated in an outstanding ANZAC dawn service in Dili on the site of the former Australian led UN hospital from the 2000-2004 period. Our culminating activity was a pre-dawn ascent of Timor‘s highest mountain mount Ramalau, climbing from 7000 to 10,000 feet to meet the dawn. The climb involved a two-hour walk along a rough 5 km track. As the sun broke through clouds at 7 am, we had the most spectacular view in every direction. It certainly was a mountain top experience in every regard and the journey both up and down was a metaphor for our lives. For most of the participants, the climb was a real struggle, but all made it with the help of our mentors and friends encouragement.
We held a brief service of thanksgiving for our group on the mountaintop. Eric read out our Veterans Care inspirational and founding scripture Luke 4 18-22 …. The Spirit of the Lord is upon us for he has anointed us to bring good news to the afflicted, to proclaim liberty to captives , to bring new sighto the blind , to set the downtrodden free, and proclaim the Lord’s Favour ….. After a brief homily we all said the Lord’s prayer together and as I offered Holy Communion, the clouds dispersed, and the Son shone upon us . All were surprised! Some were amazed! All were blessed!
I’m grateful for Eric’s witness as a Christian in this mission, and our Veterans Care team are grateful for his support of this healing mission.
From Eric Bettanin in Timor
Timor awakening is an amazing program, designed for many things but most importantly, it will help you get your head back in the right space. With a range of activities designed to test/fill everybody’s bucket to capacity. Anyone who has served in defence for a period of time should consider attending one of these programs, your families, friends and relationships will thank you for it.
Embarking on the Timor Awakening program is like stepping into a realm of profound self-discovery and growth. From the moment I met the team at the airport, my connection to Timor-Leste’s rich history and vibrant culture started to increase. Engaging in community projects and adventurous expeditions, I found myself challenged in ways I never imagined, yet each obstacle became a stepping-stone to personal transformation.
Guided by mentors who shared their wisdom and experiences, I gained invaluable insights into resilience and leadership. But, what truly made the experience unforgettable were the bonds formed with fellow participants. Through shared triumphs and moments of vulnerability, we became a tight-knit community, supporting each other on our respective journeys.
Attending Timor Awakening wasn’t just about exploring a new place; it was about exploring myself and my place in the world. It ignited a sense of purpose and clarity that continues to guide me after the program ended. If you’re seeking a transformative experience that will leave an indelible mark on your soul, I wholeheartedly recommend joining the Timor Awakening family.
You can find out more about the program, or how to join one here:
Veterans Care Association Inc.
others in the ADF and the wider Christian community. Please consider how you can support us through prayer, finances and getting involved in the MCF community.