CRN| Chuol Jany| Ten Catholic bishops, a representative of the Pope, clergy and heads of Catholic institutions have arrived in Torit for the 52nd Annual Plenary Assembly of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference.
The assembly is scheduled to commence on Sunday with an Ecumenical Mass at Sts. Joseph Cathedral in Torit. The gathering will provide an opportunity for Church leaders to deliberate on institutional development, the growth of faith and other important matters affecting the country, Catholic Church and its dioceses.
Welcoming the delegation, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Torit, His Lordship Emmanuel Bernardino Lowi, said the presence of the Church leaders in Torit was a sign of peace, unity and their shared commitment to the faith.
Representing the Governor of Eastern Equatoria State, the State Minister of Agriculture and Livestock described the arrival of the Church leaders as a blessing to the state. He said Torit had made significant contributions to South Sudan and emphasised that peace should begin in Eastern Equatoria.
The minister acknowledged the Catholic Church’s important role in promoting peace and reconciliation across the country and assured the visiting delegation of their safety and hospitality during their stay in Torit.
During the gathering, Church leaders and the faithful also paid tribute to the late Bishops Akio and Paride Taban at Torit Cathedral, honouring their contributions to the Church and society.
His Eminence Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, Bishop of Juba Archdiocese expressed appreciation to the clergy, faithful and the wider Catholic community in the Diocese of Torit for their efforts in hosting this year’s assembly.
He said the event would not have been possible without the significant contributions of the local faithful, who had supported the preparations in different ways. He encouraged them to remain committed to serving the Church, assuring them that God would reward their generosity and dedication.
The Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference held its previous annual plenary assembly in Malakal. The Diocese of Torit was subsequently selected to host the 52nd plenary, bringing Catholic Church leaders together to reflect on the mission, challenges and development of the Church in the two countries.