Archdiocese of Juba Centenary Grand Closing Ceremony
On November 1st, the Church in South Sudan, and specially the Archdiocese of Juba, celebrated the most memorable event at the Centenary of Faith Grand Closing Ceremony, on the grounds of its first parish, All Saints Church in Rajaf, Juba. The celebration of the Eucharist started around 10:30 a.m. and it was well attended by more than 15,ooo pilgrims who came from all over the Archdiocese and beyond.
The event was hosted by Archbishop Paolino Lokudu Loro and his Auxiliary Bishop Santo Loku Pio. Among the distinguished guests, the event counted with the presence of His Eminence Gabriel Cardinal Zubeir Wako, Bishop Emeritus of Khartoum, who was the main celebrant, and all the Bishops of the Sudanese Catholic Bishops’ Conference, which joins the prelates both of North and South Sudan. Moreover, one of the guests of honour was Fr. Tesfaye Tadesse, Superior General of the Comboni Missionaries, who came all the way from Rome for a pastoral visit. He was accompanied by Fr. Alcides Costa, General Assistant of the Congregation in the same location. Among other illustrious guests, the feast was attended by the President of the Republic of South Sudan, General Salva Kiir Mayardit and several Ministers of State, Governors, Commissioners and other lay authorities. Apart from those, there came also a delegation from the Parish of Cerro Veronese, the birthplace of Fr. Angelo Vinco. There was also a representative of the diocese of Verona, Italy, and the Mazza Institute. They happily shared in all the actions of the moving South Sudanese liturgy.
The Eucharist had several highlights such as the address of Cardinal Zubeir; the various groups of liturgical dancers, the excellent singing of the Choir and the unending procession of the faithful at the time of the offerings. Everyone vibrated with the prevailing hope of a new era for the Church in South Sudan and for the prospects of peace and reconciliation for the Peoples of South Sudan.
In the end, several bishops addressed the faithful, the President of the Republic himself greeted the general public and pledge once more to lead the roadmap for peace among the different tribes and factions of the country. Everyone left with joy and praising God for such a time of grace for the South Sudanese.
