By Ginaba Lino
The Bishop of Malakal Diocese, Stephen Nyodho, assured the people of Unity State on Sunday that the establishment of the new Diocese of Bentiu is not an act of division, but rather a step towards building a stronger local Church in South Sudan.
Speaking at the inauguration and installation of the first Bishop of Bentiu Diocese, Bishop Nyodho emphasized that the creation of the new diocese aims to foster cooperation and promote peace and unity.
“Building Together”
“Let me be clear, the creation of the new Diocese is not about separation,” said Bishop Nyodho. “We remain one family, united under one home, working together to build a stronger Church.”
Bishop Nyodho called on the people of Unity State and Malakal, including bishops, priests, and religious men and women, to support the newly established diocese.
“It is essential that we all support the new Bishop so he can stand on his feet. Let us pray for God’s protection and guidance, for him and for all the citizens under the new Diocese,” he urged.
The Bishop also expressed his gratitude to the pioneers who served in the Diocese of Malakal, including the first Bishop, Pio Yukwan Deng.
A New Beginning for Unity State
The Governor of Unity State, Justice Riek Bim, described the inauguration of the Bentiu Diocese as a significant milestone for the region’s faith community.
“My dear Christians, this occasion marks a new beginning of our faith journey, both as believers and as a society,” Governor Bim stated.
He attributed the creation of the new diocese to the ecumenical visit of Pope Francis to South Sudan last year, which he said inspired this development.
Supporting the Future
Governor Bim pledged his government’s unwavering support for the Diocese of Bentiu, including the construction of parish houses and other necessary institutions.
“As the head of this state and a beneficiary of Catholic teachings, my government is fully committed to supporting the establishment and growth of the Diocese. We welcome all religious and missionary congregations that will be part of this mission,” he declared.
Governor Bim also took the opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of the first Cardinal of Sudan, whose efforts during the civil war were instrumental in South Sudan’s journey to independence on July 9, 2011.
These remarks were made during the historic inauguration of the new Diocese of Bentiu.