Chuol Jany |CRN| The Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference has begun a five-day plenary meeting in Malakal, Upper Nile State, under the theme “Building Peace, Healing Wounds, and Strengthening Unity.”
Ten Catholic bishops, led by His Eminence Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin, have gathered in Malakal for the first time to discuss the growth of the Catholic faith and the strengthening of Church institutions in the two countries.
The Bishop of Malakal Diocese, Stephen Nyodho Ador, described the gathering of Church leaders as “a testimony to the unity of our shared faith,” emphasizing that the bishops’ presence is a sign of hope and solidarity with the faithful.
“I am very grateful that you accepted to hold this year’s bishops’ conference in Malakal despite the challenges and tragic news that often come from Upper Nile,” Bishop Nyodho said. “Your presence is a profound blessing to the Diocese and the people of Malakal in particular.”
In his opening remarks, Cardinal Ameyu, who chairs the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference, acknowledged the immense suffering endured by the people of both nations.
“The people of Sudan and South Sudan are enduring profound suffering, displacement, loss of life, destruction of churches and properties, and an unprecedented humanitarian crisis,” he said.
Cardinal Ameyu commended the dioceses and Catholic humanitarian agencies for their continued work in providing care and support to those in need. He added that the bishops’ plenary will deliberate on key issues affecting humanity, peace, and the Church’s mission — including the possible creation of new dioceses to strengthen the faith.
The Cardinal also raised concern over new government-imposed taxes on Church properties and personnel, warning that such measures could undermine the Church’s mission to serve the poor.
“The recent imposition of taxes on Church properties and personnel threatens our capacity to serve the poor,” he said. “The bishops will engage in dialogue with the government to address this issue.”
Cardinal Ameyu further urged the governments of Sudan and South Sudan to prioritize peace above all else.
“No one was created for war; we were all created for peace,” he affirmed. The plenary session is scheduled to conclude on Friday, November 14, 2025.