By: Ginaba Lino
The first-ever resident Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan, Archbishop Séamus Patrick Horgan, is calling on Christians to reject the arms of war and embrace the spiritual weapons of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving during the season of Lent. His powerful message came on Sunday, March 9, 2024, during his homily at Saint Theresa Cathedral in Juba.
Speaking to the congregation, Archbishop Horgan lamented that South Sudan had once again been plunged into violent conflict, marking the beginning of Lent in a tragic manner. He expressed his sorrow over the ongoing bloodshed, calling it a grave tragedy, especially during such an important period of spiritual reflection.
“This country is facing another season of bloodshed, and it is a tragedy that Lent should begin in this way,” Archbishop Horgan stated. He emphasized that the Lenten season is a time for conversion, renewal, and spiritual growth, urging the faithful to reject violence and embrace the path of peace.
“We must start by converting from the violence that can destroy us. Christians should not be involved in this sort of combat,” he said. “The season of Lent calls us urgently to that conversion this year. Pope Francis continues to follow the events in South Sudan and prays for this country. We can now return those prayers, praying for his recovery, praying for his healing.”
The archbishop’s words resonated deeply with the audience as he urged the people of South Sudan to shift their focus from violence to reconciliation and peace. “It is time to turn the page,” he continued. “It is time for a commitment to an urgent and much-needed transformation. The process of peace and reconciliation needs a new start.”
Archbishop Horgan also appealed to South Sudanese Christians to offer consolation to Pope Francis by helping to bring peace to the country.
“We can give him the gift of seeing South Sudan at peace. We can give him the consolation of a country that turns the page away from violence and political weapons. We can give him the comfort of seeing this country, for which he has such affection and concern, embracing a definitive and enduring peace through reconciliation.”
As the Pope continues to support South Sudan with his prayers, Archbishop Horgan called on the faithful to join him in prayer for both the country’s peace and the health of the Pope.