Bishop Harold’s message of support to Bishop Justin in Maridi, South Sudan
As Barack Obama warns that South Sudan is on the “precipice” of a civil war, with the intensification of sectarian clashes and an attack on a UN Mission, Bishop Harold writes to Bishop Justin in our link diocese of Maridi.
Dear Bishop Justin,
On behalf of the whole diocese of Down and Dromore, I want to assure you of our love and prayers at this very difficult time in South Sudan. We pray for peace and reconciliation, for the presence of the One who is Emmanuel among you, and for the protection that Name brings.
As you know well, here in Northern Ireland, we are still working through what it means to live in peace with one another, even after many years since the main trouble ended. At this very moment, we are struggling together to find a way of copper fastening that peace for the future. So we understand well that new political situations take time to settle.
As you know, you in Maridi have a special place in our hearts, and in the hearts of the people of Albany as well – a threefold cord is not quickly broken! So you are remembered in prayer across three continents, and we greatly value your keeping us in touch with the situation so that we can pray inan informed way. Our diocese is about to enter into a year of 24/7 prayer and South Sudan will be in our constant intercessions.
May the blessing of Christmas be all the more real in these coming days.
In Christ,
Your brother bishop
+Harold
Read the latest report on BBC News here.