On Wednesday 28 November, Micheline and Kumudinie participated in the Annual General Assembly of the Solidarity with South Sudan. It was a very special event as the celebration marked the 10th anniversary of its journey. It was a day of listening and sharing, being touched by and in solidarity with what is lived by so many committed and daring women and men of good will!
Solidarity with South Sudan originated as the result of two important factors. Firstly, the request of the Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference to the UISG - International Union of Superiors General, both women and men, to help them address the critical educational, health and pastoral needs in South Sudan. Secondly, it was in response to the call made at the Congress on Consecrated Life, on the theme “Passion for Christ, Passion for Humanity” - held in Rome in 2004.
At present, 31 religious and 3 lay volunteers (women and men) from 18 countries and 19 congregations serve in Solidarity communities in South Sudan under trying circumstances yet with great joy and love! They minister in training teachers, nurses, and midwives; initiating the collaborative model in Pastoral ministry and training in sustainable agricultural methods provided to 50 families on 30 hectares of hand-cleared land. Of late, this area gives refuge to 6000 displaced people fleeing the conflict in Rimenze, providing them with humanitarian aid to support this community.
“The harvest is great but the laborers are few,” hence the present President of the Solidarity of South Sudan, Fr Paul Smyth is – ‘Be with us on this mission’!
While thanking God for this good work, we ask God’s constant guidance and protection on these our brothers and sisters who give themselves for the people in need, in South Sudan!
