Fighting Fear with Friendship in South Sudan: The Resilient Community of Ave Maria Parish

This article discusses the challenges faced by the community at Ave Maria parish in South Sudan, which provides refuge and support for displaced individuals due to conflict and natural disasters. Fr. Avelino Bassols outlines the needs for manpower and resources in the face of economic decline. The community has initiated various educational projects and operates St Peter Health Centre, which serves as a critical healthcare facility despite limited resources, showcasing resilience in overcoming adversity.

In South Sudan, the struggle against fear and adversity is vividly illustrated by the experiences of communities coping with displacement due to wars, civil unrest, and natural disasters. Over two million individuals have been forced to leave their homes, often with nothing but their loved ones. Amidst this turmoil, Ave Maria parish, backed by the charitable organization New Ways, has emerged as a sanctuary of hope. This parish, initially established as a refuge for war victims, has evolved into a thriving community that offers shelter and support to countless displaced families. Father Avelino Bassols, who oversees the parish, communicates the challenges faced in the region. Reports indicate that recent violence has caused another influx of displaced individuals seeking safety at Ave Maria. Furthermore, the parish faces a critical shortage of priests to manage support programs, compounded by an economic crisis highlighted by the currency’s drastic devaluation. Despite these difficulties, Ave Maria parish has established several educational initiatives, including three nursery schools, two primary schools, one secondary school, and a vocational training center, which provides courses in carpentry, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and tailoring. This educational framework presents a significant opportunity for the local population to rebuild their lives. The health services provided by the St Peter Health Centre, founded in 2019, play a crucial role in the community. With limited resources and staff, the center functions as the only referral facility in the region, highlighting the overwhelming health care deficiencies in South Sudan. Statistics illustrate the dire situation, indicating there is one doctor for every 65,000 patients, vastly exceeding the World Health Organization’s standards. Though far from ideal, the health center provides essential services, including free annual eye-health campaigns conducted by a team of Spanish ophthalmologists. In summary, Ave Maria parish stands as a powerful symbol of resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges, continuing to provide education and health care to support the community amid adversity. The dedicated efforts of Father Avelino and the assistance from New Ways headline a story of perseverance and hope in South Sudan.

The context of this article centers around the humanitarian crisis in South Sudan where families have been violently uprooted due to ongoing conflicts and natural disasters. The country has reported the displacement of over two million people who face severe economic and health care challenges. As one of the least developed nations, South Sudan grapples with a lack of educational resources and an inadequate healthcare system. Amid this backdrop, Ave Maria parish represents an important lifeline for the displaced, offering a semblance of community and support.

In conclusion, Ave Maria parish in South Sudan exemplifies the power of community and unwavering support in the face of daunting adversities. Despite severe challenges such as violence, economic instability, and a healthcare crisis, the parish not only serves as a refuge for displaced individuals but also plays a pivotal role in providing education and health services. Father Avelino’s leadership and the ongoing contributions from New Ways underline the importance of sustained efforts in fostering hope and rebuilding lives in this region.

Original Source: www.indcatholicnews.com