By Sr. Henriette Anne, FSSA
His Lordship Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala has condemned the latest act of violence, the assassination of Mr. Tamania, a dedicated youth leader and Coordinator of the Catholic Organization for Development and Peace (CODEP).
“This is the second horror visited upon this parish community,” Bishop Kussala wrote, referencing the earlier tragic murder that occurred on December 13th, 2024. “These continued attacks on innocent lives are utterly unacceptable, they are deeply immoral and must stop now.” He continued, “I strongly condemn these barbaric and uncivilized acts,” Bishop Kussala declared. “The Church is not a battleground, it is a holy place, a refuge, where people come to find God’s peace, not the cruelty of man.”
In his letter shared with Rurugene online newsletter bishop expressed his heartfelt condolences to Mr. Tamania’s family, to the clergy serving the parish; Fr. Mark Kumbonyeki, Fr. Santino Makuei, and Fr. William Zaravazio, and to the entire parish community, particularly the internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have sought refuge there.
He noted that St. Mary Help of Christians Parish has served as a sanctuary for thousands fleeing conflict in recent years. That such sacred ground has again been desecrated by violence is, in the bishop’s words, “a grave sin and a wound to our collective humanity.”
In his letter dated 8th May 2024, bishop Hiiboro called on the Government of South Sudan to act with urgency and justice, urging the authorities to apprehend those responsible and to restore peace and security in the region. “It is your solemn duty to protect the lives and dignity of all citizens,” he stated.
The prelate offered not only condemnation but a call to conscience: “These acts are not good—they are evil. You are not serving your people or your cause; you are destroying your brothers. Choose peace. Lay down your arms.”
To the suffering IDPs, who have experienced violence even within the sanctuary of the Church, Bishop Kussala admitted his own helplessness to provide physical protection but assured them of unwavering spiritual solidarity. “Know this: your God is with you, and your innocent blood will never go in vain,” he affirmed, echoing the words of Psalm (116:15), “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His faithful ones.”
Quoting Pope Francis, the Bishop reminded all that true peace cannot come through violence: “Peace is a precious gift, which must be promoted and protected. Never has the use of violence brought peace in its wake. War begets war, violence begets violence”, he said.
He concluded with a caution against vengeance. “Let no one allow the desire for revenge to take root. This path only deepens the cycle of destruction. Reject retaliation. Reject hatred. Choose peace. Let mercy, justice, and wisdom prevail over anger.”
