Malakal |CRN| Chuol Jany – Bishop Stephen Nyodho Ador of the Catholic Diocese of Malakal has expressed deep joy and gratitude as his diocese hosts this year’s Bishops’ Conference, describing the event as a “visit of solidarity” and a powerful message of peace and coexistence for the people of Upper Nile State.
“Despite the destruction, we can still bring Upper Nile to a better place to live,” Bishop Nyodho said. “This conference shows that we are not forgotten. The Church stands with us in our journey toward healing and rebuilding.”
This year’s conference gathers bishops, priests, religious sisters, and Catholic partner organizations from across South Sudan under the theme “Peace, Healing Wounds, and Strengthening Unity.” The theme reflects the Church’s commitment to reconciliation and the restoration of trust in communities still suffering from the consequences of war and displacement.
Bishop Nyodho offered a heartfelt apology for the violence and suffering that have affected the people of Upper Nile and other parts of the country.
“We are truly sorry for what has taken place in our state and in other regions—the destruction of war, the loss of lives, and the destruction of property. At the end of the day, there is nothing better than peace,” he said.
The Bishop encouraged all South Sudanese to look to the future with hope and determination, emphasizing that peace can still be achieved if people renew their love and respect for one another.
“We can forget the pain of the past if we have the vision to look forward. The future is bright,” he said. “We, the people of South Sudan, were not brought together by mistake. God united us, and His plan for us is peace—not division.”
Bishop Nyodho also expressed deep concern for the suffering of displaced people in Nasir and Ulang, where many continue to face the impact of ongoing conflict and displacement.
“We know what has happened in Nasir and Ulang—our people are suffering. Some are still in refugee camps in Gambella, some have gone as far as Kakuma and Uganda,” he said. “It is our prayer that everyone will one day return home. Together, we can rebuild South Sudan and our state.”
The Bishop further highlighted the difficult situation of people displaced from Khartoum to Renk, particularly women and children separated from their families.
“The Diocese of Malakal has been on the front line of this crisis. Our parish in Renk has received thousands of people arriving in distress, sharing heartbreaking stories—especially women who have been forced to leave their children behind,” he said. “We call on the authorities of both Sudan and South Sudan to address this humanitarian tragedy urgently.”
As the Bishops’ Conference opens, the Catholic Church in South Sudan reaffirms its mission to stand with the suffering, promote peace, and strengthen unity across the nation.
“This conference is more than a meeting,” Bishop Nyodho concluded. “It is a message of hope—that together, through faith and love, we can heal our wounds and build a peaceful future for South Sudan.”