Churches Express Concerns Over Violence and Call for Peace in South Sudan
The South Sudan Council of Churches has raised serious concerns about recent violence in Upper Nile and other regions, highlighting loss of life and displacement. They commend the Sudan presidency for its peace efforts and stress the importance of dialogue over conflict. The churches affirm their commitment to support peace, reconciliation, and unity, calling upon the leadership to prioritize the welfare of the people. They urge turning to God for guidance towards a peaceful future.
The South Sudan Council of Churches has expressed profound concern regarding the escalating violence and political instability in several regions of the country, including Upper Nile, Western Equatoria, Western Bahr el Ghazal, and Southern Warrap. Their recent statement highlights the devastating impact of these conflicts, which have resulted in innocent lives lost, families torn apart, and thousands displaced from their homes.
The Council commended the leadership of the Sudan presidency for demonstrating a commitment to peace while urging for a stronger dedication to nonviolent actions. They emphasized, “The future of our nation and that of our children depend on the choices we make today. Let us choose peace and not war.” This call to action seeks to prioritize dialogue and the welfare of the populace over political considerations.
Furthermore, the statement appealed for the release of individuals detained in pursuit of peace and stressed the importance of forgiveness, healing, and reconciliation throughout the nation. The churches pledged to remain steadfast in their mission to mediate, pray, and work for the collective benefit of all South Sudanese citizens, voicing that their people are, “tired of war and displacement that have always compromised their dignity.”
In addition, the churches stressed the necessity of turning towards God as a source of peace during this critical juncture in history. Their statement concludes with a prayerful hope: “May the peace of Christ, which surpasses all understanding, fill the hearts of all South Sudanese and guide us toward a future of unity, justice, and lasting peace.”
In conclusion, the South Sudan Council of Churches has highlighted the urgent need for peace and stability in South Sudan amidst rising violence and political turmoil. Their call to prioritize dialogue, compassion, and nonviolence reflects their commitment to the wellbeing of the nation and its citizens. By turning to God and promoting reconciliation, the churches advocate for a brighter future marked by unity and justice for all South Sudanese people.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
