As “human, societal and environmental decline” continues, various church leaders in South Sudan signed a joint Christmas message, urging respect for differences and increased efforts for peace in the country.
The letter, released by the South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC), was signed by bishops and leaders of the country’s Catholic Church, the Episcopal Church, the Presbyterian Church, and the Pentecostal Church. Among them was the Catholic Metropolitan Archbishop of Juba, Paolino Lukudu Loro.
“The first people to see humbly glory of the Saviour, after Mary and Joseph, were the shepherds”, the letter reads, “and they were not scandalized by his poverty. Rather, like Mary, they contemplate his glory with simple eyes”.
The church leaders went on the thank all those who have contributed to the advancing of peace in South Sudan, including those who facilitate meetings across parties and all the humanitarian organisations.
The letter also welcomes the election of the South Sudanese Prime Minister, Abdallah Hamdock, as the new Chairman of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, and called on him to make peace efforts in the country his first priority.
The SSCC did, however, express their concern at the slow implementation of the peace agreement, stating that “continuous delays would mean extension of the suffering if the people and shattering their hopes for lasting peace in the country.”
Finally, they entrusted the people and political leadership to the Baby Jesus, praying that “they may resume a serene dialogue among the various elements of society for the benefit of all the beloved South Sudanese people.” Vatican News Department
