Cardinal Michael Czerny visited South Sudan on Saturday, marking the one-year anniversary of Pope Francis’s apostolic journey.
The Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development was welcomed at Juba International Airport by Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin, along with bishops of the Catholic Church and the Minister of Humanitarian, Albino Akol Atak.
Upon Cardinal Michael’s arrival, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin shared that the purpose of the visit is to show solidarity with the Church in South Sudan. Cardinal Michael is scheduled to spend seven days in the country, from February 2 to February 9. During this time, he will participate in Mass celebrations, with a significant role as the main celebrant on Sunday.
Cardinal Ameyu explained, “This morning (Saturday), we received Cardinal Michael Czerny, who has come to South Sudan to be with us, especially after one year since Pope Francis’s visit. He will join us in celebrating Mass this morning, and on Sunday, he will be the main celebrant. His visit is an expression of solidarity with the Church in South Sudan, and he also intends to travel to the border areas of Malakal and Renk to assess the situation of refugees and returnees.”
Ameyu, also serving as Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, has a series of meetings lined up during Cardinal Michael’s visit. They will convene with leaders of the Bishop Conference and various religious communities in Juba.
“Firstly, on Monday, he will meet with the President. Today at 3:00 PM, we will gather with him at the Bishop Conference, followed by meetings with religious communities here in Juba. Additionally, on Sunday, he will lead a solemn mass at St. Theresa Cathedral Kator at 11 am. After the mass on Tuesday, he may travel to Malakal to visit the Malakal Diocese and then proceed to Renk to assess the situation of those fleeing Sudan due to conflict,” Ameyu explained.
Cardinal Michael is expected to meet with President Salva Kiir Mayardit and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs today. Tuesday’s agenda includes a visit to the Catholic Dioceses of Malakal and Renk.