Bishop of South Sudan Calls for Unity and Hope Amid Ongoing Crisis

Bishop Christian Carlassare of South Sudan highlights the pressing need for hope and unity amidst ongoing violence and political instability. With elections postponed and significant challenges posed by climate change and displacement, the Church commits to fostering reconciliation and addressing the needs of marginalized communities, urging for a collective effort towards peace.

South Sudan finds itself on the precipice of renewed violence as clashes emerge between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, loyal to President Kiir, and the White Army militia supporting First Vice President Riek Machar. The postponement of elections from December 2024 to late 2026 raises anxiety about the future viability of the 2018 peace agreement, underscoring the nation’s precarious political landscape.

In light of these difficulties, Bishop Christian Carlassare of Bentiu emphasizes the Church’s unwavering commitment to fostering peace and hope for the people of South Sudan. In a recent discussion with Vatican News, he characterized the Diocese of Bentiu as one that, despite numerous challenges, remains a beacon of faith, representing around 450,000 Catholics and 350,000 Protestants embedded within a larger cultural landscape of traditional religions. “As people of faith, we are called to bring hope to all,” he stated.

The Diocese of Bentiu covers a vast area of 38,000 square kilometers, consisting of seven parishes, each served by dedicated catechists and lay pastoral workers vital for sustaining Christian communities. Although there are only nine diocesan priests, the reliance on lay leaders, described by Bishop Carlassare as “the backbone of the Christian communities,” is profound.

Bentiu stands as one of South Sudan’s most impoverished regions, having suffered from civil war between 2013 and 2020. Approximately 1,130,000 individuals inhabit this area, predominantly from the Nuer and Dinka ethnic groups, whose relationships are intricate and often fraught with tension. In this context, the Diocese’s foremost aim is to facilitate understanding and cooperation among diverse communities.

The Rucona camp, the largest facility for displaced individuals in South Sudan, currently hosts around 140,000 people, in stark contrast to the estimated 800,000 South Sudanese affected by violent conflict. Additionally, approximately 130,000 Sudanese refugees reside in transition camps within the diocese. “Although peace agreements have been reached, people are still unable to return to their homes,” observed Bishop Carlassare.

Compounded by severe weather conditions, including droughts and drastic rainfall, agricultural efforts are suffering. The past four years have seen significant flooding, displacing up to one million individuals annually, severely affecting food access and resulting in livestock casualties due to waterborne illnesses. “Climate change and environmental degradation are robbing the people of South Sudan of their resilience and making them even more vulnerable to crises,” he stressed.

Beyond national challenges, South Sudan’s borders are strained by an influx of refugees escaping the violence in Sudan. Currently, over a million displaced Sudanese reside in South Sudan; however, resources are insufficient to adequately address their needs.

Looking ahead, South Sudan’s political trajectory remains uncertain as elections face additional postponements. Bishop Carlassare expresses apprehension regarding the country’s preparedness for electoral processes, emphasizing the necessity for civil society to educate voters on choosing leaders based on the common good rather than tribal affiliation. Oil revenues, although once perceived as a potential foundation for stability, have further fueled conflicts.

Reflecting on violence in Nasser involving government forces and opposition supporters, the bishop calls for constructive dialogue as an urgent necessity for conflict resolution. “We are deeply concerned by the growing confrontation. It seems that dialogue is so difficult and we are unable to come to a common understanding and find non-violent solutions,” he remarked.

Despite the overwhelming challenges, the Church remains a steadfast ally to the people of South Sudan. Bishop Carlassare highlights the Church’s mission to foster inter-community reconciliation amid the chaos. “Our priority is to build bridges of reconciliation,” he declared, as the Church persists in its pursuit of unity, justice, and enduring peace amid the ongoing turmoil.

In conclusion, South Sudan faces significant challenges stemming from political instability, conflict, and environmental crises. Bishop Christian Carlassare emphasizes the Church’s mission of hope, advocating for unity and reconciliation among diverse populations while addressing the plight of the displaced. As the nation navigates uncertain political waters and humanitarian emergencies, strong leadership and dialogue are crucial to fostering peace and stability in the region.

Original Source: www.vaticannews.va