SOUTH SUDAN: Booklet on Non-violence to Encourage Hope and Transformation in South Sudan
Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
A booklet on non-violence has been launched in the world’s youngest nation by members of the South Sudan Council of Churches (SSCC) to encourage church leaders and the community to advocate for hope and transformation in the country.
The launch was organized in collaboration with PAX, the largest peace organization in the Netherlands that serves to protect civilians from the violence of war, ending armed conflict, and building inclusive peace, aimes to encourage especially Church leaders to be actively engaged in actions beyond words.
In his message on the day of the launch on January 27, Rev. Tut Kony Nyang Kon the General Secretary of the SSCC said, “Let this launch mark a new chapter in our missional commitment to model nonviolence not only in our words but in our actions.”
He added that churches should become “sanctuaries of hope and transformation, equipping communities to overcome conflicts and injustices with courage and grace.”
While addressing church leaders and referencing the booklet titled ‘Active Non-Violence’ the SSCC official said that leaders should “stand at the forefront of shaping hearts and minds, guiding communities toward reconciliation, justice, and unity.”
He continued, “This booklet serves as a powerful tool to deepen our understanding of nonviolence as a divine mandate and a practical way of life. It challenges us to reject hatred, vengeance, and division, instead of embracing love, forgiveness, and dialogue as the pathways
Non-violence campaigns play a crucial role in promoting peace, justice, and reconciliation. These should focus on education, advocacy, and community engagement to foster a culture of peace in South Sudan.
“I am encouraging each of you member church leaders to actively engage with your congregations through preaching in your respective pulpits, teaching during Bible study gatherings, and utilizing these opportunities for outreach evangelism campaigns to use even five minutes to share about nonviolence,” Rev. Nyang appealed and stressed that Churches are avenues that should be used to “bring the light of Christ to those who need it most and to share the messages of hope, salvation, and the power of God’s love and nonviolence as Jesus mandated.”
The Church leader asked for God’s wisdom, strength, and peace to guide members of SSCC as they lead with boldness and compassion. He appealed further, “Together, let us embody and proclaim the power of nonviolence for the glory of His name.”
