South Sudanese churches, through the South Sudan Council of Churches and PAX, launched the “Active Non-Violence” booklet to promote peace. Rev. Tut Kony Nyang emphasized the importance of church leaders in fostering reconciliation and unity. The booklet aims to reshape perceptions of violence in South Sudan and encourages leaders to engage their communities in nonviolent practices.
The South Sudan Council of Churches, in collaboration with PAX, has introduced a booklet entitled “Active Non-Violence.” This resource aims to promote peace within South Sudan by conveying the message of nonviolence as integral to the Gospel and the teachings of Jesus Christ. Rev. Tut Kony Nyang emphasized that church leaders play a crucial role in fostering reconciliation, justice, and unity in their communities.
Rev. Nyang, who recently assumed the role of general secretary, remarked that this booklet serves as an essential tool for church leaders, encouraging them to advance the principles of love, forgiveness, and dialogue. He urged leaders to engage their congregations actively with themes of nonviolence through sermons and Bible studies, turning churches into sanctuaries of hope that can address conflicts and injustices with courage and grace.
The compilation process of the booklet started in April 2022, during a meeting in Lukenya, where South Sudanese church leaders reaffirmed their unity and commitment to the 2015 Kigali statement on peace. In subsequent discussions, they recognized the need for an introduction to nonviolence tailored for South Sudan, influenced by calls for nonviolence from prominent religious figures, including Pope Francis.
Emmanuel Ira, the country director for PAX, stated that the booklet is designed to challenge the misconception of South Sudanese communities as inherently violent, asserting that it will help transform this perception. Since 2018, PAX has collaborated with local churches in advancing an Action Plan for Peace to support peace efforts in the region.
The conflict in South Sudan has been deeply rooted in a history of violence and division since its independence in 2011. In light of ongoing social unrest and violent clashes, church leaders felt the need to promote a culture of nonviolence as a vital means of fostering peace and reconciliation. The collaboration between the South Sudan Council of Churches and PAX reflects a collective vision to address societal violence through spiritual and community-based efforts, establishing nonviolent practices as a core component of their faith.
The unveiling of the “Active Non-Violence” guidelines marks a proactive step by South Sudan’s church leaders to counteract violence and promote peace. Through education and engagement within congregations, they aim to reshape societal attitudes towards reconciliation. The collective efforts of the church, backed by organizations like PAX, represent a significant commitment to fostering a sustainable culture of peace in South Sudan.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
