The Catholic Bishop of Bentiu, Bishop Christian Carlassare, has called on the faithful of the diocese to intensify their prayers for peace in South Sudan, as the nation continues to grapple with violence and suffering, particularly in the Abiemnhom area.
In a message to his parishes, Bishop Carlassare expressed deep concern for the pain and hardship endured by South Sudanese citizens, particularly those displaced by conflict. He specifically requested that Parishes make a special collection during the fifth Sunday of Lent to assist Christians displaced in Agook.
“I invite all Catholic faithful in our diocese to pray even more fervently for peace, as we all feel the wounds of violence and the suffering of our brothers and sisters in Abiemnhom. During this fifth Sunday of Lent, we will take up a special collection to support our displaced Christian families in Agook,” Bishop Carlassare said.
He emphasized that parish priests are responsible for gathering these heartfelt gifts and sending them to Fr. Bulus Reth in Agook, where the displaced families are in urgent need of assistance.
In addition to prayer and material support, Bishop Carlassare called on local authorities in Unity State and the Ruweng Administrative Area, particularly in Mayom and Abiemnhom Counties, to collaborate and initiate dialogue in order to resolve the ongoing crisis. He stressed the importance of leaders listening to their communities and finding common ground to address the challenges facing the region.
“We cannot allow certain elements in our communities to rob us of the peace and security we desperately need,” he emphasized. “Those who have selfish interests must stop inciting violence in our communities.”
The bishop also advocated for a comprehensive disarmament process, urging South Sudanese to unite in search of peace, righteousness, and reconciliation.
