Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace in South Sudan Amid Challenges

Pope Leo XIV encourages the people of South Sudan to pray for peace and healing amid ongoing conflict. Cardinal Ameyu, addressing parishioners, shared his discussions with the new Pope, expressing hope for continued advocacy for the nation following the death of Pope Francis.

Pope Leo XIV has extended a heartfelt message to the people of South Sudan, encouraging them to unite in earnest prayer. He emphasized the importance of dispelling negativity from their hearts to foster lasting peace within the nation. Amid ongoing conflict and division, the Pope’s words serve as a poignant reminder of faith’s potential to instigate renewal and harmony among communities.

During a speech delivered by His Eminence Stephen Martin Cardinal Ameyu on May 21, the Cardinal recounted his recent meeting with Pope Leo XIV. Having traveled to Rome for the election of the new Pope following the death of Pope Francis, Cardinal Ameyu detailed their discussions focusing on the various challenges South Sudan faces. It was critical for him to convey that the Holy Father should maintain engagement with the South Sudanese people.

Cardinal Ameyu remarked, “In a very short time, I have talked to him personally, and I told him the people of South Sudan need peace. The only advocate that we had was Pope Francis, now he is dead, the task has come to you.” He expressed a strong belief that Pope Leo XIV would take up the advocacy work that was once championed by his predecessor, asserting that the late Pope Francis played a crucial role in drawing global attention to South Sudan’s struggles.

As the discussions unfolded, Cardinal Ameyu shared that Pope Leo XIV underscored the necessity of prayer in overcoming the turmoil facing South Sudan. The Pope advised them, “We must all pray, and pray hard that the evil should go away from our hearts and peace will come tomorrow.” The Cardinal portrayed Pope Leo XIV as someone who, despite limited physical presence, has actively engaged with diverse regions across the globe, including Africa.

Upon his return to South Sudan, Cardinal Ameyu received a warm reception in Juba and promptly proceeded to St. Joseph Parish. There, he spoke to parishioners about his recent experiences in Rome, detailing the transitional moment in the Catholic Church’s leadership.

Cardinal Ameyu fondly remembered Pope Francis, describing his deep compassion for South Sudan. The Cardinal lamented the loss of Pope Francis, recognizing it as a significant blow to the Catholic community worldwide.

In summary, Pope Leo XIV’s message to South Sudan emphasizes unity and prayer in the face of adversity, while Cardinal Ameyu has articulated the need for ongoing advocacy for peace. The transition in papal leadership brings both challenges and hope as South Sudan looks to rebuild. With prayer and collective effort, there is a call for spiritual renewal that could lead to lasting peace in the nation.

Original Source: communications.amecea.org