SOUTH SUDAN: Thousands of Christians Colour Consecration of Bishop Remijo Gbitiku in Wau
Obiala Angel-Torit and Tuna Marial Kau
Thousands of Christians from different dioceses of Sudan and South Sudan coloured the consecration and installation of Bishop Matthew Remijo Adam Gbitiku MCCJ on Sunday January 24, 2021 at the grounds of St. Mary Help of Christians Cathedral in the Catholic Diocese of Wau.
The consecration follows Pope Francis’ appointment of Rev. Gbitiku as bishop of Wau Diocese on November 18, 2020, succeeding the late Bishop Rudolf Deng Majak who left the seat vacant upon his death on March 6, 2017 after serving the diocese for 21 years.
Born on May 5, 1972, Rt. Rev. Remigio Gbitiku was ordained priest of the Comboni Missionaries of the Heart of Jesus (MCCJ) on October 3, 2004.
During the consecration, Government officials called on the new bishop and the entire Catholic Church to cooperate with them to work for reconciliation and peace building in South Sudan.
Governor Sarah Cleto Hassan Rial said the Church has played a great role in reconciling South Sudan communities during and after conflicts. She further appreciated the Church for opening its doors for people seeking protection. She added that regardless of the challenges facing South Sudan, the Church cooperates in re-building the lost social cohesion among the communities.
On his part the special representative of the President, Dr Barnaba Marial Benjamin called for the need to maintain the link between church and South Sudan government, for peace building and reconciliation.
Dr Marial added that without advice from church, the government will face a lot of challenges. He called on all the citizens in the country to be close to God because the Church changes people’s lives.
