In South Sudan, preparations are accelerating to receive Pope Francis. He will be visiting the country from February 3 to 5, 2023, following that in the Democratic Republic of Congo. An opportunity for representatives of the Churches of South Sudan to preach peace and reconciliation, while the country remains in the grip of violence.
With our correspondent in Juba, Florence Miettaux
Having become independent in 2011, South Sudan descended into civil war in 2013 and, despite the signing of a peace agreement in 2018tensions continue and delays in the timetable for the peace agreement are piling up.
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Church representatives spoke to the press on Wednesday 18 January to confirm the Pope’s visit to Juba – accompanied by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland – and to say their hope that it will advance the peace process.
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In the South Sudanese capital, the work of improving the streets and the installation of large welcome posters to the address of Pope Francis continue… These days, the city lives to the rhythm of the preparations for the coming of the sovereign pontiff. A visit confirmed by representatives of the Churches in South Sudan.
The Bishop of Malakal Stephen Nyodho Ador Majwok called on the South Sudanese to ” to prepare spiritually and, for those who intend to join Juba, to begin their pilgrimage: We assure you, the Pope will come. There are only a few days left, we have to prepare. Those who are near Juba, they have to start coming on foot. And those who are further away, they also have to start their journey. »
The Archbishop of Juba, Stephen Ameyu, for his part underlined the ” high expectations of believers and all citizens of the country regarding the impact of the papal visit on the peace process: We are ready to receive the Holy Father in Juba. It is an opportunity to bring South Sudanese together in peace, reconciliation and love for their neighbour. We really hope that the coming of the Pope will make us achieve peace in this country and touch the hearts of politicians, so that they are reconciled. »
The program of the visit includes, in addition to meetings with South Sudanese leaders, churches, diplomats and civil society, a meeting with people displaced by the war as well as a ” ecumenical prayer at the John Garang Mausoleum.
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