He said at a meeting with clergy, religious and catechists in the country, 98 per cent of whom are Catholics, on Tuesday morning (local time): "The priest is an instrument of blessing. He must never take advantage of his role, he must always bless, comfort, be a servant of compassion and a sign of God's mercy."
During the meeting in Dili Cathedral, the Pope went on to say that addressing him with an honourific title such as "Lord" should "not make you feel superior to the people - you come from the people! You were born of mothers of the people! You grew up among the people! Don't forget the culture of the people that you have received."
Francis warned the clergy against the temptations of arrogance and power. "My grandmother always told me that the devil gets in through your pockets," said Francis. He called on them to see the ministry not as social prestige, but as service. "And if any of you do not feel like a servant of the people, go and ask a wise priest for advice to help you acquire this important dimension."
Working for justice and against corruption
The tasks of the clergy are to proclaim the Gospel, to serve the poor and to commit themselves to the economic and social fortunes of the country and to work for justice and against corruption.
Francis called for vigilance: Corruption can also often infiltrate Catholic communities and parishes, he said.
Bishops, priests, religious and catechists took part in the meeting in Dili Cathedral.
Around 98 per cent of the 1.4 million Timorese are Catholics, and people in church offices have a particularly respected position in society.
The Catholic Church supported the country's struggle for independence against Indonesia at the end of the 20th century and has been part of the national identity ever since.