In a historic moment for the South Sudanese Catholic community, the Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan, Monsignor Seamus Patrick Horgan, has arrived in Juba, carrying crucial messages from Pope Francis.
Monsignor Horgan’s arrival marks a significant milestone, as he will be the first permanent resident Apostolic Nuncio in the country, a role that underscores the deepening relationship between the Vatican and South Sudan.
Upon his arrival at Juba International Airport, Monsignor Horgan was greeted with a vibrant and heartfelt reception from thousands of congregants, including bishops from various dioceses, priests, nuns, government officials, representatives from Catholic institutions, and traditional dancers who showcased the rich cultural heritage of South Sudan.
The joyous atmosphere was a testament to the importance of this event for the nation’s Catholic community.
In his first address to the gathered crowd, Monsignor Horgan expressed his profound gratitude for the warm welcome, noting that it reflected not just a personal reception but also an embrace of Pope Francis’ vision for South Sudan.
“I realized, of course, that this warm welcome is not just for me but also for the Holy Father Pope Francis, who has sent the first resident Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan. Thank you for embracing that decision of the Pope and for embracing me,” said Monsignor Horgan.
Monsignor Horgan emphasized that South Sudan holds a special place in Pope Francis’ heart, a sentiment that was strongly affirmed during the Pope’s visit to the country earlier this year.
The decision to establish a permanent Nuncio in Juba is a clear indication of the Vatican’s commitment to supporting peace and reconciliation efforts in South Sudan, a nation that has faced years of conflict and instability.
Bishop Santo Loku Pio, Auxiliary Bishop of the Juba Archdiocese, spoke on behalf of the Sudan and South Sudan Bishops’ Conference, and Cardinal Stephen Martin Mulla, expressing deep appreciation for this significant appointment by Pope Francis.
Bishop Loku highlighted that since South Sudan’s independence, this is the first time the country will have its resident Apostolic Nuncio. “All along, we have had Nuncios, but they resided elsewhere. This is the first time, after the visit of the Holy Father, that we have a permanent representative staying with us here in Juba,” he stated.
The presence of Monsignor Horgan as the resident Apostolic Nuncio is expected to greatly enhance diplomatic relations between South Sudan and the Holy See.
Bishop Loku emphasized that this move would strengthen the local Church’s connection with the Vatican, bringing the Church closer to the people of South Sudan during these crucial times.
“The diplomatic relations with the Holy See, with the presence of a permanent representative, will greatly benefit the local Church of South Sudan,” he noted.
Monsignor Horgan’s agenda includes presiding over a thanksgiving mass at St. Theresa Cathedral on Sunday, where the faithful will gather in large numbers to celebrate this new chapter in the Church’s history in South Sudan.
His role will not only be to represent the Pope but also to work closely with local Church leaders, supporting their efforts in fostering peace, unity, and development across the country.
The arrival of the first resident Apostolic Nuncio is seen as a powerful symbol of hope and a step towards greater international support for South Sudan’s journey towards lasting peace.
As the country continues to navigate the challenges of nation-building, the Vatican’s close involvement, through the presence of Monsignor Horgan, is expected to play a pivotal role in guiding the moral and spiritual direction of the nation.
In the coming days, Monsignor Horgan is expected to engage with various stakeholders, including government officials, religious leaders, and civil society representatives, to discuss ways in which the Church can contribute to the ongoing peace process and address the pressing social issues facing the people of South Sudan.
This historic moment reflects Pope Francis’ deep concern and affection for the people of South Sudan, and it reinforces the Vatican’s commitment to standing with the nation as it strives for peace, justice, and reconciliation.
