Lutheran bishop appeals for peace and love in W. Equatoria ahead of Christmas

Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Sudan and Sudan, Bishop Peter Anibati Abia. (Courtesy photo)

The Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Sudan and Sudan, Bishop Peter Anibati Abia, has delivered a poignant Christmas message to the people of Yambio and Western Equatoria State calling for love, peace, and reflection on the true meaning of the season.

Speaking to Radio Tamazuj on Tuesday, the churchman appealed for an end to the ongoing violence in Tambura County and across Western Equatoria, emphasizing the need for unity and reconciliation as the Christmas season approaches.

In his heartfelt message, the bishop highlighted the transformative power of love, urging communities to demonstrate God’s love toward one another, especially in areas plagued by conflict.

“If we have love among us, there is hope. Love will dispel wars, tribal conflicts, and tensions. Our prayer is that God hears the cries of the innocent and puts an end to their suffering,” he said. “If God, in His great love, came to seek us, we too must value human life and cherish one another.”

Expressing deep concern over the violence in Tambura County, Bishop Anibati lamented the loss of innocent lives and the displacement of many families, particularly women and children. The prelate further called for collective efforts to foster peace, urging communities to reject tribalism and violence.

“This conflict pits brother against brother and leads nowhere,” he stressed. “God has blessed us with abundant resources and a beautiful land. Let us change the narrative, embrace peace, and value one another. There is no need to slaughter others like chickens for no reason.”

As Christmas approaches, the church leader reminds the people to embrace repentance and transformation, reflecting on the birth of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. He urged everyone to seize this season as a time for renewal and reconciliation.

“This war is brother against brother,” he said. “We must stop, repent, and have a change of heart. This is the season to celebrate the birth of the Son of God and the peace He brings.”

He concluded his message with a call for prayer and a renewed commitment to love, peace, and unity, saying: “May this Christmas inspire us to heal our land and rebuild our communities with love and hope.”


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