South Sudan
South Sudan takes steps to curb violence, but still faces major challenges
The government of South Sudan has recently taken laudable steps to halt killings and human rights abuses by members of the armed forces, but South Sudan’s people still face multiple threats from inter-ethnic tensions, entrenched patterns of violence, natural disasters and conflict in neighboring Sudan.
Two South Sudanese women comfort their friend following months of violence in their country
Over the past two years inter-communal violence, primarily among the Nuer and Murle, has destabilized South Sudan’s western Jonglei State, causing massive displacement. The two ethnic groups, both predominately Presbyterian, have been at odds for more than 50 years. The ethnic rivalries were exacerbated by the 1983-2005 war with Khartoum, which armed both communities and pitted them against each other.
More than 100,000 Jonglei residents have been displaced since the start of 2013; many have sought refuge either in neighboring countries or in the capital city of Juba. Survivors have been severely traumatized…
Please:
• Pray for healing for the people of South Sudan, that they may recover from trauma, break the cycle of violence, and promote reconciliation and peacebuilding
• Pray that the Government of South Sudan will be able to put an end to the violence in Jonglei State, enabling survivors to return to their homes.
• Learn more about the situation in South Sudan.
• Give generously to help support the work of the PC(USA)’s mission personnel and global partners.
Read more
Two Sudanese ecumenical councils established—the South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC), based in Juba, and the Sudan Council of Churches (SCC), based in Khartoum.
The two plan to celebrate their 50-year Golden Jubilee together in January 2015
South Sudan: food fears for thousands in Jonglei as violence intensifies
The UN World Food Program estimates more than 100,000 people unable to access humanitarian support in the region—The Guardian
Amnesty International releases an Urgent Alert related to the detention incommunicado of Rev. Idris Joshua Idris Nalos and Pastor Trainee David Gayin by South Sudanese security forces. Read more
Because of insecurity in the Akobo and Pibor areas of South Sudan PC(USA) mission co-workers, Nancy McGaughey and Sharon Curry have had to delay returning to their places of service. Please keep these dedicated mission co-workers who serve in difficult circumstances in your prayers as World Mission staff discern next steps with them and our partner church, the Presbyterian Church of South Sudan. Please also pray for peace to be realized in these conflict-ridden areas of South Sudan. See below:
Watch a video of the Sudan webinar
Violence and turmoil in the Republic of Sudan and South Sudan are in the headlines every week. What can Presbyterians do to respond?
Join Debbie Braaksma of Presbyterian World Mission’s Africa Office for an in-depth webinar that tells you how Christians are being marginalized and persecuted in the Republic of Sudan, inter-ethnic fighting in South Sudan, and violence along the border. In the midst of these crises, you’ll find out how Presbyterians are working alongside Sudanese and South Sudanese partners to be agents of reconciliation, evangelism and justice in Africa.
Hear from a pastor of the Presbyterian Church of South Sudan and U.S. Presbyterians who are making a difference in God’s world. Most importantly, you’ll hear how you can be in prayer for our sisters and brothers in Sudan and South Sudan, and other practical ways you can support them.
GIVE to disaster relief for South Sudan through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA).
GIVE to RECONCILE's work in trauma healing and women’s peace building to address the violence between the Murle and Lou Nuer peoples.
Sudan Mission Network
- For more information contact Bill Andress, Debbie Braaksma or Stacy Gregory
- 2013 meeting: December 9-10, Louisville, Ky.
The Sudan Mission Network is among more than 40 networks that connect Presbyterians who share a common mission interest. Most participants are involved in mission partnerships through congregations, presbyteries or synods. Network members come together to coordinate efforts, share best practices and develop strategies.
Learn more about Sudan
Visit the BBC country profile.
