By Emmanuel Mandella
“South Sudanese must embrace the fire of truth and justice if the nation is to rise above its divisions and painful past, Catholic Bishop Barani Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala declared.
Delivering his homily on the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time, bishop Kussala explained that Jesus’ words, “I came to bring fire on earth,” as a challenge for Christians to stand firmly with truth, even when it causes discomfort or resistance.
“Jesus Himself suffered humiliation and death because He stood for truth, but He rose again, proving that truth cannot be buried. In South Sudan, we must choose truth even when it divides families, political parties, or communities,” Bishop Kussala said.
The bishop compared the nation’s challenges of corruption, violence, and ethnic mistrust to obstacles in the Christian race described in the Letter to the Hebrews. He emphasized perseverance, unity, and righteous leadership as keys to national transformation.
“The road to peace is not easy. Families may betray you; colleagues may discourage you, and even leaders may push you toward wrongdoing. But South Sudan will only prosper when its citizens and leaders have the courage to stand with the truth,” he noted.
Amid ongoing peace negotiations and preparations for long-delayed elections, the prelate stressed the importance of role models and positive influence, especially for young people urging parents to guide their children carefully, and for leaders to surround themselves with advisers who pursue justice and accountability.
“If you want success, walk with those who inspire you. A blind person cannot lead another blind person. In the same way, South Sudan cannot move forward if our leaders surround themselves with corrupt friends and tribal cliques,” he said.
He further said, “South Sudan’s unity will not come from empty promises, but from the courage to do what is right, even when it costs us.”
