Bishop Christian Carlassare of Bentiu addresses the dire state of South Sudan amidst escalating violence and postponed elections. The Church remains committed to fostering hope and reconciliation among the diverse communities facing challenges from conflict, displacement, and climate change. Bishop Carlassare emphasizes the need for dialogue and unity to overcome these obstacles and achieve lasting peace.
The situation in South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has reached a critical point due to rising violence between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the White Army militia. This unrest, coupled with the postponement of elections from December 2024 to late 2026, poses a significant threat to the peace established by the 2018 peace agreement. Bishop Christian Carlassare of Bentiu emphasizes the Church’s role in fostering hope and peace among the nation’s citizens amid this turmoil.
Bishop Carlassare describes the Diocese of Bentiu as a community of faith, consisting of approximately 450,000 Catholics and 350,000 Protestants, alongside practitioners of traditional religions. Covering 38,000 square kilometers, the diocese comprises seven parishes supported by dedicated catechists and lay pastoral workers. The bishop credits these lay leaders as “the backbone of the Christian communities,” essential for sustaining faith under challenging circumstances.
In addition to poverty and devastation from years of civil war, Bentiu is home to the Rucona camp, the largest displacement camp in South Sudan, which houses 140,000 individuals. Despite peace agreements, many remain unable to return to their homes due to ongoing violence and the challenges posed by climate change. Bishop Carlassare warns of severe flooding and drought impacting agriculture, further exacerbating the dire conditions faced by vulnerable populations.
Moreover, South Sudan is facing an influx of over a million displaced Sudanese fleeing violence in neighboring Sudan, intensifying the humanitarian crisis. Bishop Carlassare underscores that the current political climate raises concerns about the future and the readiness for upcoming elections, highlighting the necessity for civic education to encourage voters to choose candidates based on merit rather than tribal affiliation.
Bishop Carlassare points out that oil revenue, which should contribute to stability, has unfortunately fueled conflict and division. The urgent need for dialogue among conflicting parties is crucial for peace, as emphasized by the bishop’s reflection on recent confrontations. The Church remains committed to its mission of reconciliation and hope, striving to promote unity and justice in these trying times.
The escalating violence and political instability in South Sudan highlight the urgent need for effective dialogue and reconciliation. The Church, led by Bishop Carlassare, plays a vital role in fostering hope among the population. Addressing humanitarian challenges and promoting civic engagement for upcoming elections are essential steps to ensure a more unified and peaceful future for South Sudan.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
