By Otto Abut-CRN|Juba|20 May 2025
His Eminence Stephen Cardinal Ameyu Martin Mulla has returned to Juba after participating in Pope Francis’s burial and the conclave that elected His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.
The Metropolitan Archbishop of Juba received a warm welcome upon arrival and proceeded directly to St. Joseph Parish, where he addressed parishioners about his experience in Rome and the historic transition in Church leadership.
Cardinal Ameyu recalled the deep affection the late Pope Francis had for South Sudan, saying his passing was a great loss for the global Catholic community.
“It was necessary for all cardinals to attend the funeral and pay their final respects,” he said.
He also explained that Pope Leo XIV’s election was finalized after four sessions of the conclave, reflecting the urgency and unity of purpose among the cardinals.
The Cardinal emphasized that the election marks not the end, but the beginning of a renewed mission for the Church.
“As we witness this transformation in Church leadership, let us remember that the election of a pope is not the end but the beginning of the task of unifying the people of God,” he said.