Apostolic Nuncio Urges for Peace and Prayer During Lenten Season in South Sudan
Archbishop Séamus Patrick Horgan, the Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan, called on political leaders to embrace Pope Francis’s message of peace amid increasing violence. He stressed the significance of Lent as a time for spiritual renewal and urged citizens to abandon violence in favor of reconciliation and prayer. Horgan emphasized the Pope’s concern for South Sudan and his hope for lasting peace in the nation.
The Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan, Archbishop Séamus Patrick Horgan, has urged political leaders to heed Pope Francis’s message of peace during a recent homily at Saint Theresa Cathedral in Juba. He emphasized that despite the Pope’s health challenges, he remains aware of South Sudan’s situation and shares concerns over escalating violence following the Revitalized Peace Agreement. Archbishop Horgan stated that had the Pope been present, he would reiterate his previous calls for peace from two years ago.
During his address, the Nuncio condemned the ongoing violence, declaring, “Now is the time to say: ‘No more of this’… it is time to build!” He highlighted the significance of the Lenten season, stating that it serves as a moment for conversion and transformation, urging South Sudanese to embark on a new journey towards peace and reconciliation.
The Archbishop reminded the congregation of Pope Francis’s continued prayers for the recovery of South Sudan and encouraged reciprocal prayers for the Pope’s health and enhancements in peace. He articulated a vision for South Sudan to provide the Pope comfort by ultimately achieving lasting peace amidst the turmoil.
Emphasizing the spiritual nature of Lent, Archbishop Horgan urged Christians to abandon violent tendencies and instead embrace prayer, fasting, and charitable contributions. He lamented the violent start to Lent and stressed that believers should embody the essence of spiritual renewal rather than engage in conflict.
The Nuncio called upon all Christians in South Sudan to reject weapons of war and adopt spiritual practices, reinforcing the urgent need for peace in this conflict-ridden region.
In conclusion, Archbishop Horgan’s messages during the homily resonate with the need for immediate peace and spiritual renewal in South Sudan. By recalling Pope Francis’s teachings, he encourages political leaders and citizens alike to replace violence with constructive dialogue and genuine reconciliation. With a focus on prayer and spiritual practices, the call for transformation during Lent highlights the critical need for a united front against conflicts that plague the nation.
Original Source: communications.amecea.org
