Catholic bishops in Sudan and South Sudan request tax exemptions from their governments to enhance community services. Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla highlights the financial challenges faced by the Church and the necessity for more resources to pursue their mission. The ongoing conflicts in both nations further complicate this need, as humanitarian crises intensify.
Catholic bishops in Sudan and South Sudan have appealed to their respective governments to exempt the Church from taxation. During the Episcopal Conference on February 18, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, Archbishop of Juba, emphasized the necessity of this exemption. He stated that it would allow the Church to devote more resources to its pastoral activities and community services, underscoring the Church’s role as a vital presence in local communities.
The two nations have endured protracted conflicts, particularly South Sudan, which fell into disarray shortly after declaring independence from Sudan in 2011. Accusations of a coup against President Salva Kiir by former Vice-President Dr. Riek Machar sparked a devastating civil war, resulting in nearly 400,000 fatalities and millions of displacements. Despite the establishment of a coalition government in 2020, violence continues to plague the region.
Similarly, Sudan has faced turmoil due to clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, displacing 12 million individuals who now require urgent humanitarian assistance. This crisis has been exacerbated by funding cuts from USAID, prompting organizations like Caritas Internationalis and Cafod to call for increased international aid, in agreement with the UN Office for Humanitarian Affairs and the UN Refugee Agency.
Cardinal Mulla emphasized the Church’s need for a robust response to these crises and the necessity for additional resources. He remarked, “As we reflect on the current situation in Sudan and South Sudan, we must acknowledge the many challenges that confront us. The Church is not only a spiritual beacon but also a crucial player in the social and economic landscape of our communities. Our commitment to education, moral formation, and inter-religious dialogue is paramount in fostering peace and unity among our people.”
The Catholic Church in Sudan and South Sudan is advocating for tax exemptions to bolster its community service efforts amidst ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises. Cardinal Stephen Mulla and other bishops emphasize the importance of resources to sustain their mission of education and peacebuilding. These calls also highlight the greater need for international aid and support in a region severely affected by violence and instability.
Original Source: www.thetablet.co.uk
