Pope Francis Grieves Over South Sudan Violence During Lent
Pope Francis expresses deep concern regarding the violence in South Sudan during Lent, as highlighted by Archbishop Horgan. The Apostolic Nuncio calls for peace and reconciliation, contrasting the violence with the season’s message of spiritual renewal. A recent incident resulted in the deaths of troops during a UN evacuation effort, reflecting ongoing instability in the region. Horgan urges Christians to abandon violence and embrace spiritual renewal this Lent.
The ongoing violence in South Sudan during the Lenten season has caused deep concern for Pope Francis, as expressed by the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Horgan. He urged South Sudanese citizens to provide the Pope with the gift of witnessing lasting peace in their nation, emphasizing a need for reconciliation to overcome the use of violence as a political instrument.
On March 7, South Sudan witnessed tragic violence when several troops were killed during an evacuation process involving a United Nations helicopter. The armed assault occurred near Nasir, Upper Nile State, where South Sudanese forces and the White Army militia have been engaged in intense clashes, exacerbating the ongoing instability in the region.
In a homily delivered on March 9, Archbishop Horgan lamented the violent nature of recent events, contrasting them with the spirit of Lent, which is traditionally a period of penance and spiritual combat. He expressed sorrow that the season, meant for spiritual renewal, began with needless bloodshed, which he deemed tragic and deplorable.
The Apostolic Nuncio cautioned Christians against participating in violence, urging them to embrace the transformative nature of Lent. He implored, “Let everyone who calls himself Christian renounce the arms of war and violence this Lent and take up the spiritual weapons of prayer, fasting and almsgiving!”
Referencing Father Pope Francis’ visit to South Sudan in February 2023, Archbishop Horgan reiterated the Pope’s call for peace, stating, “now is the time to say: no more of this.” He emphasized the urgency for reconciliation and encouraged the cessation of hostilities, advocating instead for the building of a peaceful nation.
The Archbishop concluded with a reaffirmation of Pope Francis’ message, calling for transformation and a renewed commitment to peace in South Sudan. He stated, “It is time to turn the page. It is time for commitment to an urgent and much-needed transformation. The process of peace and reconciliation needs a new start.”
In conclusion, the escalating violence in South Sudan during Lent has elicited profound sorrow from Pope Francis, as articulated by Archbishop Horgan. The call for peace and reconciliation is urgent, as Lent symbolizes a time for transformation and spiritual renewal, rather than conflict. Archbishop Horgan’s reminders of Pope Francis’ previous messages emphasize the necessity to renounce violence and strive for lasting peace in the nation.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
