Author: Chuol Jany
The newly established Catholic Diocese of Bentiu is preparing to officially inaugurate and install H.L. Bishop Christian Carlassare early next month.
The Catholic Priest of St. Martin, Rev. Fr. William Bawar said Preparations are underway both spiritually and materially for the official inauguration on 8th, August 2024 in Bentiu-Unity State.
He added that faithful from all 7 Parishes of Bentiu are ready for the BIG day and will assemble at the new Diocese to celebrate the historic occasion.
“We are preparing spiritually, and that preparation is not only for us Christians of this pastoral region. Our government is also participating with us. I can say that the preparation is going on well and smoothly because when we celebrate new things people move with that happiness,” Fr. Bawar said.
Fr. Bawar said the Parishes outside Bentiu will take part in the inauguration to celebrate the momentous occasion in the history of Unity State.
“Some parishes are coming since the diocese belongs to them not only Bentiu. In an area like Parieng, we have two Parish, Abiemnhom, Mayom, and Leer who are part of the Diocese.”
Fr William acknowledged that they are excited to have their diocese, as desired, and it has been in their prayers for a long time.
Some members of the Catholic Congregation in Bentiu also expressed their joy for the establishment of the Diocese.
Alemma Khamis said the people of Unity State are very excited to have the Diocese and faithful community praise God for such recognition.
“We the faithful are very happy because have the diocese, God will help us to make this diocese a better place for worshippers,” she said.
Elizabeth Meer a member of the Women group at St. MArtin is expecting the new diocese leadership to advocate for peace in Unity State. She said there is also a lack of people who will join the priesthoods which makes it hard to carry out evangelization in the remote areas.
“The dioces are going to bring peace in a Unity state, and Education and the Church will be expanded through evangelization. There is a lack of Priests, and we believe the new diocese will help train people who will join the priesthoods.” Elizabeth said.
Mr. Mut Chan, a member of the youth in the Catholic Church said the promotion of a Unity state in the Diocesan will motivate people to join the Catholic Community.
“Hope that this Diocese will change the future of our people in terms of development we believe the Diocese will bring nearer to the community.”
Catholic Diocese Bentiu was created and announced by the Holy Father, Pope Francis on 3rd July 2024, embracing Lakes State and Ruweng Administrative Area.