Sr. Henriette Anne, FSSA
As the Republic of South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation marks its 14th Independence Day on Wednesday, July 9th, bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala, the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura -Yambio (CDTY), Western Equatoria State, has emphasized to the citizens that true freedom is not just about the breaking of chains or the end of oppression but it is about the awakening of their collective purpose to build, to reconcile, and to renew the land of South Sudan.
“On this glorious day of our national birth, we lift our hearts in gratitude to God, the Author of history and the Giver of every good gift. As we celebrate our Independence Day, let us remember: true freedom is not only the lifting of chains, but the awakening of purpose to build, to reconcile, and to renew”.
In his message shared with Rurugene online newsletter, the local ordinary of CDTY said that South Sudan’s story is not mere survival but a story of people empowered by grace, equipped with divine gifts, and called to be a light shining their communities.
“We are not merely survivors of struggle we are bearers of a sacred mission. Each citizen is empowered by grace, equipped with divine gifts, and called to be a light in our communities.”
The prelate acknowledge that it is easy to feel alone in the face of uncertainties, conflict, or hardship and stressed to the South Sudanese that the spirit of God who brought them this far in history is still walking with, encouraging them not they are not alone.
“You are not alone. The same Spirit that brought us this far still walks with us
guiding, comforting, and calling us forward”.
Bishop Eduardo further said that they are people led by divine wisdom and sustained by grace, with the responsibility to nurture peace in their home, truth in their conversation, and love in their actions.
“We are a people anointed by hope, strengthened by suffering, and sent forth to heal our broken land together.”
In his message he added, “today, let us not just wave flags but raise hearts full of courage, hands ready to serve, and voices that speak peace, truth, and love. Our future is not a dream it is a task, and together we can accomplish it”
