Author: Chuol Jany
Bishop Christian Carlassare has arrived in Malakal with the second delegation of Church leaders ahead of the much-anticipated Bishops’ Conference, which is set to officially begin tomorrow.
This year’s conference will bring together bishops, priests, religious sisters, and Catholic partner organizations from across South Sudan under the theme: “Peace, Healing Wounds, and Strengthening Unity.”
The gathering aims to foster reconciliation, healing, and renewed hope in communities still recovering from years of conflict and natural disasters.
Speaking upon his arrival, Bishop Carlassare described the occasion as a moment of grace and blessing for the people of Malakal.
“I am very glad for the Diocese of Malakal, which is hosting this important conference. All the bishops are coming together—it will be a time of blessing for this community,” he said.
The Bishop also emphasized that the conference is a call for peace and reconciliation among all South Sudanese communities.
“It is time for peace. I call on all communities and Christian families to work together for peace and unity,” he added.
Vicar General Fr. Stephen Ochir expressed his joy at the arrival of the second delegation, saying that hosting the national conference in Malakal this year demonstrates the Church’s deep solidarity with the people of Upper Nile State.
“The people of Upper Nile have suffered greatly since 2013—through conflict, displacement, and natural disasters,” Fr. Ochir said. “We are happy that the presence of the bishops here shows their solidarity with us. Their visit is a sign of peace and unity for our people. We continue to pray for lasting peace in both Sudan and South Sudan.”
The conference will include moments of prayer, reflection, and dialogue on the Church’s role in promoting peace and healing across the nation.
A high-level delegation led by His Eminence Cardinal Stephen Ameyu and the Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan is expected to arrive in Malakal on Friday, November 7, marking the final group to join the gathering before official proceedings begin.