By Lodu William Odiya
Central Equatoria State Governor Emmanuel Adil Anthony has emphasized that South Sudan’s most pressing challenges can only be overcome through strong collaboration rooted in unity, peace, and shared responsibility between the government and the church.
The Governor made the remarks on Wednesday in Juba during the official opening of a three-day House of Bishops’ meeting of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan (ECSS).
Addressing the bishops, Governor Adil acknowledged that the nation continues to face significant challenges.
“I believe that with unity, determination and faith, together, government and church, collectively we can confront these challenges and our people will live in peace and harmony,” he stated.
He urged both the political and spiritual leadership to remain committed to promoting peace, reconciliation, and development, adding: “We need to overcome them as a united people. And so let us be committed in promoting peace, reconciliation and development.”
Governor Adil specifically commended the church for its role in national growth, noting the infrastructure and innovations developed by the church, which he stressed must be continuous. He called on all citizens to work together to empower communities, support youth and vulnerable populations, and promote tolerance and understanding across the social, political, and economic spectrum.
Meanwhile, Most Rev. Dr. Justin Badi Arama, Archbishop and Primate of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan, confirmed that the House of Bishops meeting is an annual gathering involving all 61 ECSS bishops from across the country.
He explained that this tradition, held towards the end of the year, is a time for the bishops to receive encouragement, guidance, and equipment before returning to serve their congregations.
The Archbishop highlighted this year’s theme, drawn from John 16:33, in which Jesus encourages his disciples to “take heart” despite the challenges.
“We are encouraging the bishops to take heart and to stand firm and to look to Jesus amidst of all the challenges that people face in the country, region, families and the church as well,” Dr. Badi stressed.
He concluded that the bishops will continue to stand firm, demonstrate leadership, and be a symbol of peace and reconciliation in every community of South Sudan. He also expressed hope that the meeting would be dedicated to prayer, looking to Jesus to intervene in the nation’s current situation.