Sudanese Church calls for national reconciliation

By Ngor Arol Garang

January 4, 2010 (KHARTOUM) — The Sudanese Catholic Church has called on citizens to embrace peace and reconciliation as the nation enters the festive period.

Bishop Rudolf Deng Majak of Roman Catholic Church Diocese in Wau launched his call during a church service attended by Western Bahr el Ghazal State Governor Mark Nyipuoc on Sunday.

“There is need to face the year 2010 as a peaceful nation.”

He thanked President Omer Al-Bashir and his first deputy and President of the government of Southern Sudan Salva Kiir Mayardit for reaching consensus on southern Sudan and Abyei referendums and popular consultation for the people of Southern Blue Nile and Nuba mountains.

The Bishop prayed for peace in the Sudan as the country enters election and wished the leaders to commit this nation into the Lord hands. “I pray for peace to reign in this nation as we enter the New Year,” he said.

“We thank you Lord that you have carried this nation this far. As we enter the New Year 2010, I pray that you continue guiding us in everything that we do,” he added.

The leader of the Roman Catholic Church who has been in Wau since ordained said the country has in the past few months experienced political tension because of the recently concluded talks over referendums and popular consultation bills.

He said political leaders should look at the festive period as an opportunity for reconciliation.
“We should realize that despite our different views, we are one nation and, therefore, should live as one, he said encouraging churches to host a prayer breakfast for political leaders.

“People should not spend time venturing into unfounded criticisms and unnecessary politicking; he adds stressing on burial of matters relating to tribalism and move forward in unity.”

(ST)