South Sudanese Diocese Closes Year of Mercy, Priest Resumes Active Ministry

South Sudanese Diocese Closes Year of Mercy, Priest Resumes Active Ministry

CANAA || By Father Bazia Boro Elario Zambakari, South Sudan || 14 November 2016

In a symbolic celebration of closing the door of mercy, the clergy, religious, and the Christians faithful of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY) in South Sudan gathered Sunday, November 13, at St. Mary Yambio Cathedral parish, in a solemn event that saw Fr. Venasio Zukpa resume active ministry after 23 years.

Thousands of Christians, priests, Religious Sisters and Brothers across the Diocese assembled for the event, which was presided over by CDTY local Ordinary, Bishop Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala.

Addressing his message to the congregation and the people of South Sudan, Bishop Hiiboro said, “To think about the mercy of God, people need to practice it towards each other so that peace may prevail in our society.”

The Bishop and the entire congregation were happy to welcome back to active ministry a diocesan Catholic Priest, Father Venasio Zukpa, who has not been in active ministry for a period of 23 years.

CDTY is one of the seven Catholic dioceses within the territory of South Sudan, the world youngest nation.

The country has been experiencing violent civil conflict, which started in December 2013.

According to reports, the recent attack in Yambio on Thursday, November 10, 2016 left at least four people dead, thousands of civilians internally displaced, some crossing to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Central African Republic for their safety.