“The Eucharistic Congress, at the heart of this jubilee, has provided a unique opportunity for us believers from all corners of the world to converge in worship and thanksgiving. It is through the Eucharist that we are built up as a new Jerusalem, of fostering unity among the diverse people,” the Cardinal said.
The Local Ordinary of South Sudan’s Catholic Archdiocese of Juba who doubles as President of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SSS-CBC) further said, “The collective prayers and praises offered during this time have surely ascended to heaven, echoing the sentiments of gratitude and resonate within our hearts.”
He said, “Fifty years after, we reflect on the blessings received during these celebrations. It is vital to recognize the contributions of all who have worked tirelessly to prepare for this momentous occasion.”
“Fifty years after, in reflecting on the golden jubilee of the hierarchy for Sudan and South Sudan, it is essential to acknowledge the profound journey that has unfolded since its inception in 1974. This celebration is not merely a commemoration of years past, but a testimony to the enduring faith and resilience of the Church in this region,” Cardinal Ameyu said.
He continued, “The jubilee invites us to remember and celebrate the blessings that God has showered upon His people and leadership. It serves as a reminder that through the incarnation of Jesus Christ, eternity has entered into time and the history of salvation continues to unfold in the lives of believers today in Sudan and South Sudan.”
“This moment is a unique opportunity for the Church to reflect on its mission, the call to holiness, charity, and solidarity, especially in the face of changes that have marked the history of Sudan and South Sudan,” the Catholic Church leader said.
He continues, “Fifty years after, as the Church moves, we celebrate this occasion with loving memories because we have still the surviving Bishops who have served you. With this spirit, we thank the Lord for having given us this opportunity again. In closing, this golden jubilee inspired a renewed commitment to the values of peace, reconciliation, and solidarity.”
As the Church in Sudan and South Sudan moves forward, Cardinal Ameyu called for a renewed commitment to the values of peace, reconciliation, and solidarity.
“Let us embrace this moment as a time of grace, a day of blessing by the Lord, and a call to action for believers in both South Sudan and Sudan,” he said.
Cardinal Ameyu underscored the importance of unity and diversity in the Church, noting, “This unity in diversity serves as a model for Christian unity, especially in the context of shared history and aspirations for peace and reconciliation.”