Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Mulla of the Archdiocese of Juba has expressed that pragmatic synodality could facilitate peace in South Sudan. He emphasized that meaningful dialogue, both within the Church and with political leaders, is essential for addressing the country’s ongoing conflicts. Despite the Church’s growth, instability remains prevalent due to the failure to implement peace agreements and the crisis across the border in Sudan.
Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Mulla of the Archdiocese of Juba, South Sudan, addressed journalists in Rome on October 18, asserting that a pragmatic approach to synodality could foster peace in his nation, which has been marred by conflict. At a Vatican press conference, he articulated, “The synod journey helps us the Church to resolve many problems together,” emphasizing that the principle of synodality—”going together”—is pivotal for establishing peace in South Sudan. The cardinal explained that the emerging methodology of prayerful dialogue and reflection represented by synodality could have profound implications not just within the Church but also in broader societal contexts. He remarked, “The synod journey helps us together to resolve many human problems,” highlighting South Sudan’s troubled history since its independence from Sudan in 2011. Addressing the shared bishops’ conference between South Sudanese and Sudanese bishops, Mulla acknowledged ongoing challenges stemming from historical conflicts and urged for more dialogue among the broader populace of South Sudan. He expressed disappointment over the lack of progress regarding a revitalized peace agreement established in 2018, following a Vatican-brokered meeting between South Sudan’s leaders. “In the aftermath of that audience, they did not implement the revitalized peace agreement. So, as a result, the country is still unstable,” Mulla stated, reinforcing the bishops’ insistence on adherence to the peace agreement’s stipulations. He conveyed that synodality could facilitate dialogue between bishops and political leaders, ultimately addressing social and political issues. While the Church is experiencing growth, as exemplified by the creation of an eighth diocese last July, Mulla lamented the regression of the state, particularly in light of the ongoing crisis in neighboring Sudan, which has erupted into civil war, leading to mass displacement and destruction. He pointed out the catastrophic toll of the conflict in Sudan, noting that it has had a significant impact on the region’s stability, calling for greater understanding and servant leadership within both ecclesiastical and political spheres. Mulla concluded by underscoring the necessity of dialogue, stating that “dialogue is crucial” for resolving issues in both the Church and political fields. He reiterated the essential nature of synodality: “Going together is the way for us to resolve our own problems.”
The situation in South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after a prolonged conflict, has since been plagued by its own internal strife and civil war. The peace deal brokered by the Vatican in 2020 is viewed as fragile, with enduring instability and inter-ethnic conflicts persisting. Cardinal Mulla’s remarks reflect the ongoing struggles both the Church and citizens face in striving for peace and resolution amid political turbulence. Allegations of failure to implement peace agreements further complicate the landscape, even as the Church witnesses growth in its structures and community.
Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Mulla’s advocacy for synodality as a means to foster dialogue and peace is crucial in the context of South Sudan’s ongoing strife. With significant challenges imposed by both internal conflicts and the regional crisis in Sudan, the cardinal’s call for cooperative efforts among bishops and political leaders could represent a potential pathway towards stability. The emphasis on servant leadership and the importance of dialogue forms the crux of Mulla’s vision for revitalizing hope and peace in a region that has endured extensive turmoil.
Original Source: www.pillarcatholic.com
