The general secretary of the Lutheran World Federation called for prayer and assistance over Christmas for the people and churches of Sudan in anticipation of the referendum.
Rev Martin Junge said their hope is that the CPA holds and that the people of South Sudan will be free to vote in the referendum and free to choose the future direction for their region, and that whatever the result of the vote the consequences will play out in a way that is peaceful and respectful of human dignity, Ekklesia website reported.Rev. Junge noted that the situation in South Sudan and with Southern Sudanese in the North is tense adding that many people are fearful.
The Church leader urged Lutherans around the world during the special time of Christmas to pray for the people and churches of Sudan.
Rev Junge asked for assistance for those in countries where the South Sudanese in diaspora are entitled to vote, including Australia, Canada, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, the United Kingdom and the United States.