WCC NEWS: South Sudan churches share Easter messages of hope

Churches in South Sudan shared Easter messages of hope, even amid troubling times for the African nation. The South Sudan Council of Churches, in its message, emphasized renewed hope. “In today’s world, marked by so many conflicts and so much suffering, we understand that many of us feel disheartened,” reads the message. A displaced Catholic woman prays during an open air mass in Agok, South Sudan, Photo: Paul Jeffrey/Life on Earth Pictures 4 April 2024 “So together with you, we would like to set out from the proclamation that is the basis of our hope and that of all humanity: ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here but has risen and is alive!’ (Luke 24:5).” The message also calls for inclusive political dialogue, as well as a peaceful and democratic transition from violence.  The Province of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan Anglican Communion, in its message, encourages citizens in South Sudan to celebrate Easter with love for one another. “We are tired of the continued violence, road ambushes, political and inter-communal killings happening in different parts of the country,” the message reads. “We ask our political leaders to prioritize dialogue and build consensus on how to take the country forward peacefully.”  The Catholic Archdiocese of Juba reminds us that, through faith, we are never alone or forsaken. “Just as Christ has risen, we too are called rise above our trials, our doubts, and fears,” the message reads. “Let us embrace the spirit of Easter, a season of rebirth and endless possibilities.” The Presbyterian Church of South Sudan urges the leadership of South Sudan to bring an end to the continued ethnic violence, child abduction, and gender-based violence. The message also expresses appreciation for international friends and partners for their unwavering support. “We are also indebted to the South Sudan peace partners and entire global community for their firm stand with the war-entangled people of South Sudan for the provision of critical lifesaving humanitarian interventions during this economic meltdown of our country.”    WCC member churches in Sudan "Churches in South Sudan appeal for support during worsening humanitarian crisis" (WCC feature story, 26 March 2024) See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches 150 route de Ferney Geneve 2 1211 Switzerland