Author|Chuol Jany|CRN
The Catholic Diocese of Rumbek has appealed for an end to violence in Greater Tonj Counties of Warrap State, urging communities to embrace dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence following renewed insecurity that has claimed lives and displaced families.
In a statement issued on South Sudan’s 15th Independence Day, the Diocesan Priests, Religious Missionaries, and Apostolic Administrator Bishop Christian Carlassare expressed concern over the recent violence in Tonj North and Tonj East counties, while noting that Tonj South has also been affected by ongoing insecurity. They extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and prayed for the recovery of those injured.
The Church also condemned an incident in which a catechist and a Comboni scholastic travelling for pastoral work were threatened by armed men, saying such attacks demonstrate that fear is replacing trust and violence is taking the place of dialogue.
The Church leaders questioned how Warrap, known for its strong Christian heritage, has become increasingly insecure, stressing that faith should be reflected in daily actions through respect for human life and peaceful coexistence.
The Diocese called on young people, elders, families, community leaders, government authorities, and all people of goodwill to reject violence, resist revenge, protect innocent lives, and choose dialogue and reconciliation. It also urged the authorities to strengthen security, uphold justice, and protect civilians.
The statement further appealed to all sons and daughters of Warrap, both at home and abroad, to become ambassadors of peace and unity rather than division.
The Church also highlighted the important role of Catholic missions in Warrap, Awul, Marial Lou, Romic, Thiet, and Tonj in promoting education, pastoral care, and support for vulnerable communities, warning that continued violence disrupts worship, learning, and community development.
Concluding the message, the Diocese reaffirmed its belief that reconciliation is stronger than revenge and that lasting peace can only be achieved through dialogue, justice, patience, and love. The Church called on South Sudanese to use the Independence Day celebrations as an opportunity to renew their commitment to building a peaceful, united, and secure nation where every family can live without fear.