“In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.”
“Let the skies pour down righteousness; let the earth open, let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness spring up.” – Isaiah 45:8
The following is an extract from an article written by Lucy Gillingham who worked at Jesuit Missions.
“Since 2018 [Jesuit Missions] has been working with Jesuits in East Africa to contribute to South Sudan’s development through a comprehensive programme of education and livelihood initiatives, directly helping more than 3,000 people each year.
South Sudan is the youngest country in the world, gaining independence from Sudan in 2011 after more than half a century of civil war. It is also one of the poorest, most insecure and conflict ridden countries, with an estimate 9 million of the 12 million population in need of urgent humanitarian assistance. Some of the most daunting challenges are in the field of education: more than seventy percent of children are out of school according to UNICEF. The majority of students learn in informal, corrugated iron structures, or in some cases under the shade of trees. In the north of the country, the Jesuit Refugee Service compound houses the only library in the state. My visit coincided with the anniversary of Fr Victor-Luke Odhiambo SJ, who was gunned down at his Jesuit residence by anonymous attackers. Four years later, within sight of his resting place, is the Victor-Luke Memorial Secondary School, supported by [Jesuit Missions]. Its 140 students will graduate with a secondary school certificate as well as teacher training skills. Plans are underway to construct a girls’ dormitory so that female students can complete their studies without harassment.” (This article originally appeared in the publication “Jesuits and Friends”).
Pray for South Sudan.
Look out for stories in the news that mention South Sudan, to try and keep yourself informed and in solidarity with the people there.
When you see a crib this Christmas try and remember God also present in our world today in the people of South Sudan.
God of power and mercy, open our hearts in welcome. Remove the things that harden our hearts from making room for Christ. Remove the things that harden our hearts from making space in our lives for others. Open our eyes to see your presence in all things. Amen.