The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sudan and South Sudan marked a major milestone over Easter weekend with the inauguration of St. Paul Cathedral in Yambio, Western Equatoria state.
Sunday’s celebration drew local worshippers, church leaders, government officials and international partners. The timing, coinciding with Easter, added to the spiritual significance of the event.
Bishop Peter Anibati Abia, head of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sudan and South Sudan, expressed gratitude during the ceremony.
“This is where the word of God will be preached. It is the beginning of something great, and we are thankful to the donors from the U.S. who made this possible,” Abia said.
He called the cathedral a spiritual symbol reflecting God’s sovereignty.
“We believe God is the ultimate owner of everything. By building this cathedral in Yambio, we are pointing people to Christ, who is above all,” he said. “Every good work must begin with the Word, and from the Word, it flows into all other ministries.”
Assistant Bishop the Rev. Elinama Jacob Bisi celebrated the realization of a long-held vision.
“My message is simple — let everyone come and receive blessings and hear the Word of God. This church is for all people, not just for the Lutherans,” he said.
Visiting professor Ban Ltz, one of the main donors from the U.S., said the cathedral would serve as a place of solace and strength.
“When people face challenges, it is important to remember the power of God. The new St. Paul Cathedral is a place where people can come together in prayer,” he said.
Acting Western Equatoria State Gov. Daniel Badagbu Rimbasa praised the church’s efforts and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to peace and development.
“This cathedral will allow people to proclaim the Word of God freely,” he said. “Let us embrace peace and become ambassadors of development.”
Rimbasa highlighted progress in the state, including new schools and hospitals.
“Things are changing in Western Equatoria. Faith is growing, schools are being built, hospitals are functioning — all these are signs of progress,” he said. “I encourage this continued movement and value the church’s partnership.”
Worshippers welcomed the new cathedral as a significant step in their spiritual and communal growth, saying it would strengthen Christian faith and promote unity.