Pope Leo XIV has urged the people of South Sudan to unite in prayer for peace amidst ongoing conflict. Cardinal Stephen Martin Ameyu, returning from Rome, communicated the new Pope’s commitment to advocate for South Sudan, reflecting on the loss of Pope Francis as a critical supporter. The Cardinal emphasized the need for spiritual renewal among Christians to bring peace to the nation.
In a poignant message directed towards the people of South Sudan, Pope Leo XIV has urged a collective commitment to peace and prayer. As conflicts and divisions continue to plague the nation, his call emphasizes the necessity for spiritual renewal in pursuit of harmony. The Pope’s message stands as a crucial reminder that faith can drive community healing amidst turmoil.
Cardinal Stephen Martin Ameyu delivered this message during a speech on May 21 while returning from Rome. This trip coincided with the election of the new Pope following the death of Pope Francis, in which Cardinal Ameyu actively participated. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to communicate directly with Pope Leo XIV regarding the pressing challenges facing South Sudan.
In his address, the Cardinal highlighted the urgent needs of the South Sudanese people for peace. “In a very short time, I have talked to him personally, and I told him the people of South Sudan need peace,” he stated. He mourned the loss of Pope Francis, who had been a tireless advocate for South Sudan on the global stage. “We have lost our advocate, the one who speaks about us at the International level,” he continued, underlining the pivotal role the late Pope played in drawing international attention to the region.
Looking to the future, Cardinal Ameyu expressed hope that Pope Leo XIV would continue the work started by Pope Francis. He noted that the Holy Father acknowledged the grim reality in South Sudan and called for fervent prayers. “Pope Leo said he understands the situation of South Sudan, and he told me this: We must all pray, and pray hard that the evil should go away from our hearts and peace will come tomorrow,” he detailed.
The Cardinal painted a picture of Pope Leo XIV as a globally-minded man, who, despite being rooted in one place, has traveled widely to spread the missionary message. His experiences span nations such as Kenya, Chicago, Bali, and Indonesia, highlighting his commitment to the Gospel. Cardinal Ameyu emphasized the importance of inner peace within Christians, stating, “When we are at peace, we can bring that same peace to others.”
Upon returning to Juba, the Metropolitan Archbishop received a warm welcome from the community. He promptly visited St. Joseph Parish to share his experiences in Rome along with insights about the Church’s leadership transition. Cardinal Ameyu recalled the late Pope Francis’ deep connection to South Sudan, mourning the void his death has left not just for the country, but for the entire Catholic community globally.
Pope Leo XIV’s call for prayer and unity serves as a reminder of faith’s role in addressing South Sudan’s ongoing conflict. Cardinal Ameyu’s reflections highlight the significance of Pope Francis’ advocacy and his hopes for the new Pope to continue this essential work. The emphasis on inner peace among Christians is crucial for fostering wider communal harmony, as South Sudan seeks healing through faith and collective action.
Original Source: communications.amecea.org
