Pope Francis kisses the feet of South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir, as rebel leader Riek Machar looks on (Photo by Vatican Press)
“There will be fights among you, but let these be inside the office. . .in front of the people, hold hands.” Just before Easter, Pope Francis and other religious leaders delivered an emotional appeal to government and opposition leaders from South Sudan.
A Fragile Peace in South Sudan
At the moment a fragile cease-fire continues in South Sudan after five years of civil war. Despite failed attempts in the past, there is hope that this time peace will prevail and a unity government will usher the young nation into a new era.
"I want to reiterate that the war in South Sudan has come to an end. . .To forgive is not an act of cowardice. It is a Christian obligation”, South Sudan’s President, Salva Kiir, declared during a meeting with his former Vice President and rebel leader, Riek Machar.
Promoting Peace and Reconciliation
The government and key opposition leaders are taking steps to move towards peace, but much work remains to be done.
Five Talents is grateful for the opportunity to work with churches and leaders in South Sudan to promote peace and reconciliation. Our programs focus on literacy, economic empowerment, and trauma healing. Over the years we’ve found that these are key tools for promoting peace and development.
“The choice is now for us and our leaders whether to choose the path of peace or to choose the path of war. . . Today, in the name of the risen Lord Jesus Christ, I encourage to all to choose peace and put an end to war. . . Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Join us in praying for and supporting peacemakers in South Sudan.