The article highlights the challenges facing families in South Sudan, where ongoing conflicts and natural disasters have displaced millions. Ave Maria parish serves as a vital sanctuary, offering education and health care amid severe shortages. Under the leadership of Fr. Avelino Bassols, the community makes significant strides despite overwhelming odds, calling for ongoing support to sustain their vital programs.
In South Sudan, villagers are continually faced with the harrowing reality of sudden displacements due to floods, violence, and civil unrest. With over two million individuals having been uprooted, many seek refuge at the Ave Maria parish, a sanctuary established by the charity New Ways located at the country’s western border near the Central African Republic and the Congo. Originally a haven for war refugees, Ave Maria parish has evolved into a self-sustaining community under the guidance of Fr. Avelino Bassols. Fr. Bassols recently communicated with New Ways’ CEO Angela Docherty, sharing insights into the urgency and challenges experienced by the community. “We have passed once again some very stressful months,” he noted, referencing escalating insecurity that has led to further intern displacement. The area suffers from both a lack of human resources, as new recruits fear for their safety, and a crumbling economy with the South Sudan Pound experiencing extreme devaluation, necessitating urgent economic and social support. The parish actively provides education through three nursery schools, two primary schools, a secondary school, and a vocational training center offering trades such as carpentry and electrical work. Fr. Bassols highlighted the cultural importance of textiles, stating, “It may sound surprising, but in an area such as ours, the first luxury people think about is a new dress for Sunday, or new clothes to dress on Christmas.” Additionally, the health care at St. Peter Health Centre offers vital services, operating as a small hospital capable of serving hundreds from surrounding areas despite severe resource limitations, with a staggering ratio of one doctor per 65,000 patients. Fr. Bassols emphasized the critical need for functional health services, as many patients cannot afford the long journey to further hospitals. The center benefits from an annual eye-health campaign conducted by Spanish ophthalmologists, which has successfully treated hundreds. Despite the overwhelming challenges, the community at Ave Maria parish, fueled by dedication and a commitment to service, continues to push forward, striving to attain levels of health and education akin to those enjoyed in more stable regions. With continued support from organizations like New Ways, there is hope for improving the prospects of the people of South Sudan.
The ongoing humanitarian crisis in South Sudan is characterized by a combination of natural disasters, civil conflicts, and economic turmoil, leading to widespread displacement and dire conditions for the affected populations. Ave Maria parish has emerged as a crucial refuge for those fleeing violence or disasters, providing essential support such as education and health care amidst an environment marked by scarcity and insecurity. The insights provided by Fr. Avelino Bassols, who leads the parish’s initiatives, illustrate the complexities of offering assistance in such challenging circumstances, including the significant gap in healthcare availability and educational resources in one of the lowest-ranked countries in terms of development.
The situation in South Sudan remains precarious, yet the efforts of Ave Maria parish, under the leadership of Fr. Avelino Bassols and the support of New Ways, highlight the resilience and hope within the community. By addressing the urgent needs for education and health care, such initiatives are gradually transforming lives despite the pervasive challenges. Continued funding and support are essential to sustain these efforts and enhance the quality of life for the vulnerable populations in the region.
Original Source: www.indcatholicnews.com
