Holy Cross Chapel Celebrates 16 Years of Faith, Unity, and Community Service

By Jenifer James

Holy Cross Chapel in Nyarjua Na Mere Boma recently celebrated 16 years of faith, resilience, unity, and community service.

The anniversary brought together local leaders and residents to reflect on the church’s contributions and emphasize the ongoing need for cooperation between religious and governmental institutions.

 Community leaders also called for stronger efforts to address social challenges impacting residents, especially young people.

During the celebration, Paul Logale Jimmy, Member of the National Parliament, warned that alcohol and drug abuse are detrimental to young people and undermine community development in Nyarjua Na Mere Boma.

“Alcohol and drugs destroy people in the Boma,” Logale stated.

He also expressed concern that some support and opportunities provided to young people have not yielded their intended results, adding, “Whatever was given to the people of the Boma, the youth has spoiled.”

Logale’s remarks underscored a broader theme among local leaders, who used the anniversary to highlight the importance of tackling social problems and strengthening community unity.

Loro Michael, Administrator of Nyarjua Na Mere Boma, advocated for stronger collaboration between the church and local government to promote peace, unity, and community development.

“It is a great honor and a privilege to stand before you as the administrator of Nyarjua Boma,” Loro said.

He explained that the government and church have distinct but complementary roles in serving the community.

“Today, I want to show you the difference between the church and the government,” he stated.

Loro clarified that while the government is responsible for public services and infrastructure, the church contributes to the spiritual and moral development of society.

“The government can provide services such as roads, health, and infrastructure, but cannot mandate love, peace, and moral integrity, as the church does,” Loro explained.

 He urged church leaders and the local administration to work together to address social problems, support families, and guide young people.

“However, I call on the church to partner with the local administration to heal hearts, comfort the grieving, unite families, educate the youth spiritually, and foster unity,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, Augustino Loro Thomas, Sub-Chief of Nyarjua Na Mere Sub-Boma, urged residents to adhere to Christian teachings and abandon practices he deemed harmful to the community.

“Most of the people these days follow witchcraft, which is bad. Come to Christ and you will get eternal life,” Thomas said.

He encouraged residents, particularly young people, to embrace positive values and strengthen their faith.

The celebrations concluded with prayers for the congregation and communities across South Sudan.

“May God bless the congregation, and may God bless the communities of South Sudan in general,” Loro prayed.