The Greater Mundri Community Organisation (GMCO) has called for urgent dialogue after violent clashes reportedly broke out between members of the Moru Congregation and the Diocese of Juba, turning church compounds into scenes of tension and injury.
The clashes, which allegedly occurred at St. Paul Parish Church in Nyakuron, reportedly left members of the clergy injured, while heightened tensions were also reported at St. Andrew Parish Church in Kubir Habuba and St. Thomas Parish Church in Munuki.
The Community’s Chairperson, Amb. Lawrence Korbandy, said in a press statement that GMCO received the reports “with dismay” and emphasized the need for dialogue.
“The Greater Mundri Community Organization learned with great dismay of violent clashes that took place in St. Paul Parish Church, Nyakuron, reportedly resulting in injuries of the clergy,” Amb. Korbandy said.
Korbandy said GMCO “strongly registers its disapproval to violence and any violent actions in the churches,” stressing that places of worship must remain centers of peace and reconciliation.
“We strongly disapprove of violence and any violent actions in the churches,” he said. “Churches are sacred spaces meant for prayer, peace, and unity.”
The GMCO Chairperson urged both the Moru Congregation and the Diocese of Juba to refrain from further confrontation and instead embrace peaceful dialogue to address what has been described as a dispute over church ownership and administration.
“We encourage the adversary groups of the ECSS in the Parish Churches of St. Paul, St. Andrew and St. Thomas to refrain from violence and embrace peace, dialogue, and non-violent conflict resolution,” Korbandy stated.
Korbandy emphasized that non-violence is deeply rooted in Christian teachings, referencing biblical guidance that calls for resolving disputes through dialogue rather than force.
“Non-violence is rooted in core Christian teachings that call on followers of Christ to be instruments of His peace,” he said, citing Matthew 18:15–16 and Isaiah 1:18, which urge believers to reason together and settle differences amicably.
He further stated that GMCO is ready to play a constructive role in facilitating dialogue between the two sides to address the underlying causes of the conflict.
“We therefore call upon the Moru Congregation and the Diocese of Juba to engage in dialogue by fostering prudent communication between them,” Korbandy said.
“The GMCO is ready to facilitate the peaceful process to address the root causes of the conflict.”
Korbandy called on congregants to remain calm and allow dialogue efforts to proceed, warning that continued violence risks undermining both faith institutions and community harmony.
