“Financial burdens should not hinder our mission”: Bishops in Sudan and South Sudan on Possibility of Tax Exemptions

“As we reflect on the current situation in Sudan and South Sudan, we must acknowledge the many challenges that confront us. The church is not only a spiritual beacon but also a crucial player in the social economic landscape of our communities,” he said.

“Our commitment to education, moral formation, and inter-religious dialogue is paramount in fostering peace and unity among our people,” he said hinting at the expected discussions for the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Solidarity, a new model of ministry and collaboration among women and men Religious and the Laity in serving the poor in South Sudan.

The partnership with Solidarity, he said, “represents an opportunity for us to enhance our outreach and support for communities we serve.”

The South Sudanese Catholic Church leader, who was one of the three Africans created Cardinals during the 30 September 2023 Consistory in Rome said that the partnership will provide a platform for them “to enhance our outreach and support for communities we serve.”

“Solidarity has a proven track record of working alongside the church to address pressing issues, and needs, particularly in education, and health care,” Cardinal Ameyu said, and added, “By formalizing this relationship, we can leverage their expertise and resources to better serve our faithful and promote the common good.”

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The Cardinal also lauded the establishment of a new commission for Catholic education in South Sudan which he described as “a critical step forward” illustrating the Church’s commitment to education.

The education commission, he said, “will focus on ensuring that our educational institutions not only provide academic excellence but also instill moral values and civic responsibility in our students and others.”

“As Pope John Paul II emphasized, the church's involvement in education is vital for the moral and civic formation of young people, which is essential for the future of our communities. The safety and security of our church personnel and properties are paramount,” he said.

In his remarks, the Cardinal also talked about the Opus Securitatis initiative developed to enhance security measures across dioceses and ensure that “the Clergy and Lay persons can serve without fear.”

The initiative, the South Sudanese Cardinal said “is not merely about physical safety. It is about creating an environment where the gospel can flourish.”

The Cardinal also spoke about the formation of Priests as future church leaders, urging the Catholic Bishops in Sudan and South Sudan to take the formation as “a sacred duty” that must be prioritized.

“The major seminary plays a crucial role in this endeavor, providing the necessary theological and pastoral training for our seminarians,” he said, and added, “Investing in Clergy education is an investment in the future of the church in Sudan and South Sudan.”

The SSS-CBC president added, “We must ensure that our seminarians are well-prepared to meet the spiritual and practical needs of our communities.”

Cardinal Ameyu urged the Church leaders to foster a spirit of collaboration among themselves with the sole goal of providing better services to their communities and those under their pastoral care.

“Together we can foster a spirit of collaboration and commitment to our shared mission, ensuring that we respond effectively to the needs of our communities,” he said. 

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Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.