South Sudan is facing increased violence and political instability, with clashes between government forces and armed militias. Bishop Christian Carlassare emphasizes the Church’s role in promoting peace and hope, highlighting the Diocese of Bentiu’s commitment to reconciliation amid hardships. The area continues to struggle with displacement due to conflict and environmental challenges, urging the need for unity and informed election choices.
South Sudan, recognized as the youngest nation globally, is currently facing heightened violence as clashes continue between President Salva Kiir’s South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and Riek Machar’s White Army militia. This instability is compounded by the postponement of elections, originally scheduled for December 2024, now planned for late 2026, raising concerns about the potential breakdown of the 2018 peace agreement.
In an interview with Vatican News, Bishop Christian Carlassare of Bentiu emphasized the Church’s dedication to fostering peace and offering hope within the tumultuous South Sudan. He described the diocese’s span of faith amid adversity, noting that it encompasses approximately 450,000 Catholics and 350,000 Protestants, alongside followers of traditional religions. Bishop Carlassare stated, “As people of faith, we are called to bring hope to all.”
The Diocese of Bentiu, which spans 38,000 square kilometers and consists of seven parishes, is significantly supported by dedicated lay leaders. Bishop Carlassare articulated the importance of these lay members, indicating that they are considered “the backbone of the Christian communities,” as the diocese only has nine diocesan priests to serve its large population.
Bentiu remains one of South Sudan’s poorest areas, still reeling from the scars of the civil war from 2013 to 2020, with many residents living in makeshift shelters. The population consists mainly of the Nuer and Dinka ethnic groups, with Bishop Carlassare acknowledging the complicated relationship between them, emphasizing the diocese’s priority of bridge-building.
Additionally, the Rucona camp, the largest displacement camp in South Sudan, houses 140,000 individuals, a small fraction of the 800,000 displaced South Sudanese. Bishop Carlassare remarked, “Although peace agreements have been reached, people are still unable to return to their homes.”
The impact of extreme climate variations exacerbates the situation, with severe flooding and prolonged drought affecting the region. Bishop Carlassare pointed out that the last four years have seen significant flooding, displacing approximately one million individuals annually, while also stressing the struggles in agriculture and food access.
Moreover, the environmental challenges extend to water pollution from nearby oil wells. Bishop Carlassare noted, “Climate change and environmental degradation are robbing the people of South Sudan of their resilience and making them even more vulnerable to crises.”
South Sudan is also coping with a massive influx of displaced Sudanese fleeing due to their own nation’s civil war, adding strain to the already overwhelmed country. Bishop Carlassare lamented the inability to adequately assist these new arrivals, stating that South Sudan is ill-equipped to provide for every individual seeking refuge.
The uncertain political landscape casts a shadow over South Sudan’s future. With elections postponed multiple times, Bishop Carlassare highlighted the importance of civil society leaders preparing for these elections by promoting informed voter choices that transcend tribal affiliations. He criticized the past reliance on oil revenues, which, rather than fostering stability, have fueled conflict.
Emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue in light of recent confrontations, Bishop Carlassare voiced concerns about the increasing tensions in various regions while stressing the critical need for unity: “To bring South Sudan together in peace.”
Despite these immense challenges, the Church remains a beacon of support, with Bishop Carlassare affirming that their focus is on reconciliation amidst crises. “Our priority is to build bridges of reconciliation,” he asserted, as the Church strives to instill hope, advocate for justice, and promote sustainable peace across the nation.
In summary, South Sudan faces a precarious situation characterized by political instability, violence, and environmental adversity. Bishop Christian Carlassare underscores the Church’s commitment to fostering peace and hope amid these challenges. With significant displacement and complex ethnic dynamics, unity and dialogue are essential for navigating the path forward. The Church’s mission remains focused on building reconciliation and aiding the community towards a more peaceful future.
Original Source: www.vaticannews.va
