AUTHOR|Chuol Jany|CRN- His Eminence Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin, Archbishop of Juba, has arrived in Malakal together with other Catholic bishops ahead of the Bishops’ Plenary Conference scheduled for Sunday, 9th November 2025.
Hundreds of Catholic faithful and state government officials turned out at Malakal Airport this afternoon to warmly welcome the high-level delegation.
This year’s annual conference is being held under the theme “Peace, Healing Wounds, and Strengthening Unity.” The theme underscores the Church’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation, healing, and rebuilding trust among communities affected by years of conflict and displacement.
Bishop Stephen Nyodho Ador of the Catholic Diocese of Malakal, who is hosting the event, welcomed the delegation and prayed for lasting peace in the state, saying the presence of the Church leaders would inspire hope and unity among the people.
Speaking during the reception, the Deputy Governor of Upper Nile State, Hon. Deng Joh, expressed appreciation to the Catholic Church for selecting Malakal as the host city for the plenary conference. He said such gatherings play a vital role in promoting peace and social cohesion in the region.
In his remarks, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin said the visit of the bishops symbolizes solidarity with the people of Malakal, the state government, and the local Church community.
“We have come in solidarity with you — the people of Malakal, your government, and your Church. We thank God because the last time we came, this town was not like this. Now, Malakal is alive again,” he said.
The Bishops’ Plenary Conference is expected to discuss the Church’s peace and reconciliation efforts, humanitarian challenges, and ways to strengthen unity among the faithful across South Sudan.