By Otto Abut
The President of the Sudan and South Sudan Bishops’ Conference, H.E. Dr. Stephen Cardinal Ameyu Martine Mulla, has called for unity, collaboration, and teamwork within the Bishops’ Secretariat, emphasizing the importance of serving in the spirit of God within the Church.
Cardinal Stephen Ameyu made these remarks during an event on Monday, January 3, 2025, where the new Secretary General of the Bishops’ Conference, Rev. Fr. Martine Ochaya, was officially welcomed, and outgoing Secretary General, Fr. Peter Suleiman, was bid farewell.
The Metropolitan Archbishop of Juba encouraged the staff to work together harmoniously, emphasizing that the Bishops’ Conference is a place of service, not division.
“In the Catholic Church, there is no tribalism; it is only service,” Cardinal Ameyu affirmed. He also clarified that the Bishops’ Conference is governed by unanimous selection, not tribal affiliations.
Meanwhile, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Juba Archdiocese, H.G. Bishop Santo Loku Pio, urged the new Secretary General to consult with the bishops before making decisions. “The Bishops’ Conference is where the sun does not set,” he said, stressing the need for prompt and careful responses to the needs of the bishops.
Bishop Loku also commended the peaceful transition and highlighted the challenges faced by Fr. Peter Suleiman during his tenure.
Rev. Fr. Martine Ochaya, in his speech, expressed his commitment to serve as an obedient servant of God and praised Fr. Suleiman for ensuring a smooth handover of the position.
Rev. Fr. Dr. Martine Ochaya Lino was appointed to his role on December 22, 2024, by H.E. Stephen Cardinal Ameyu. His installation on January 1, 2025, marked the beginning of his duties to coordinate the work of the Secretariat and oversee the implementation of resolutions made by the bishops.
Fr. Ochaya Lino has extensive experience, having served as Secretary General of the Archdiocese of Juba from 2006 to 2012 and most recently as the Diocesan Coordinator for the Justice and Peace Commission. He is also a lecturer at the Catholic University of South Sudan.