Author|Ginaba Lino|CRN
The Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan, Archbishop Seamus Patrick Horgan, has called on Catholic bishops to provide spiritual leadership, promote the common good and offer hope to the people of South Sudan as the country marks 15 years of independence amid ongoing insecurity and humanitarian challenges.
In a message delivered during the opening of the three-day Ecclesiastical Province Meeting of South Sudan Catholic Bishops in Juba, Archbishop Horgan expressed regret for not attending the gathering in person due to ongoing medical treatment.
The Vatican diplomat said he remains optimistic about his recovery and assured the bishops that the work of the Apostolic Nunciature in Juba would continue uninterrupted through the support of local collaborators and a temporary representative to be appointed by the Holy See.
“Unexpected medical diagnosis has necessitated my entering a cycle of treatment which will last some months. The medical professionals I have consulted are optimistic that the suggested treatments will bring a positive outcome and permit a full resumption of duties again.”
Reflecting on South Sudan’s 15th Independence Anniversary, Archbishop Horgan described the milestone as a moment for honest reflection on the country’s progress and continuing struggles.
He noted that many South Sudanese continue to face insecurity, displacement, poverty and limited access to essential services despite years of self-rule.
“Fifteen years after independence, I know that you will be reflecting on the socio-political context of the country during your meeting and I pray you will offer a serious examination of that situation together with a word of hope for your people.”
The Archbishop encouraged the bishops to draw guidance from Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, which emphasizes human dignity and the common good in addressing modern challenges, including the growing influence of artificial intelligence.
Quoting the Holy Father, he stressed that technology, politics and economic decisions must always serve the human person and uphold the dignity of every individual.
“A concern for the common good must be an essential element of any state worthy of the name. It is the state’s responsibility to ensure cohesion, unity and the proper organisation of civil society so that the common good can be pursued with everyone’s contribution.”
Archbishop Horgan said the principles outlined in the encyclical are particularly relevant for South Sudan as the country navigates political uncertainty and prepares for potential elections later this year.
He urged the Church to remain a “home and school of communion,” applying the values of justice, unity and human dignity within its own structures and in its engagement with society.