| Solidarity with South Sudan joins the universal Church and the global community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a shepherd of profound faith and tireless love for the poor, the forgotten, and the suffering.
We give thanks to God for a life so deeply rooted in the Gospel—marked by humility, mercy, and unwavering dedication to those most in need. Pope Francis was a true witness of Christ’s love, a light in the darkness for those on the peripheries of society. His compassionate heart extended especially to nations too often overlooked by the international community—among them, South Sudan. We hold the valuable memory of the Prayer Vigil for Peace in South Sudan, which he led in 2017 at St. Peter’s Basilica— a moment of intercession and hope, which Solidarity with South Sudan had the grace to promote. His apostolic journey to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan in February 2023 was a sacred pilgrimage of peace, a gesture of pastoral closeness that brought healing, encouragement and hope to a long-suffering people. Even in his final Urbi et Orbi Easter blessing, Pope Francis did not forget us. He prayed: “May the Risen Christ, our hope, grant peace and consolation to the African peoples who are victims of violence and conflict, especially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in Sudan and South Sudan.” These words now echo with even greater poignancy, as we commend his soul to the mercy of the Risen Lord. In our mourning, we also renew our resolve to carry forward the mission of peace, justice, and reconciliation to which he called us—especially here in South Sudan. May his legacy continue to illuminate our path, and may his intercession from heaven sustain our efforts to build a future of peace and respect for life. Fr Hyacinthe Loua, SJ Executive Director of Solidarity with South Sudan Photo credits: CNS/Paul Haring |
Date Published:24 April 2025 Author:Fr Hyacithe Loua Article Tags: Latest news, South Sudan, Solidarity, Peace, Hope, Pope Francis |
