At a religious gathering in South Sudan, Archbishop Justin Badi Arama called on the nation to embrace love, unity, and reconciliation, reflecting the values exemplified by Pope Francis.
Speaking to a diverse congregation, Archbishop Arama emphasized the importance of healing and forgiveness in a country still grappling with the scars of conflict and division.
“Let us take inspiration from the humility and compassion of Pope Francis,” he said. “He came to us not just as a religious leader but as a servant of peace. It is now our responsibility to carry forward that message in our daily lives, in our communities, and in our hearts.”
The Mass was led by Archbishop Séamus Patrick Horgan, the Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan, who paid tribute to Pope Francis as a example of hope and tireless advocate for peace and justice.
In his homily, Archbishop Horgan underscored the Pope’s firm commitment to the people of South Sudan, recalling his historic visit in 2023, which was marked by emotional moments of solidarity and a call for national reconciliation.
“Pope Francis walked among us as a true shepherd,” he said.
“His devotion to peace, his concern for the marginalized, and his ability to unite people of different faiths and backgrounds remain a guiding light for us all,” Horgan added.
The service, attended by Country’s President Salva Kiir, religious leaders, and thousands of worshippers, served not only as a tribute to the Pope but also as a renewed call for unity in South Sudan.
With messages rooted in spiritual guidance and national healing, the leaders urged citizens to rise above tribal divisions and political strife and work together for a peaceful future.
