South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Waure Eddy
Hundreds of Christian faithful thronged St. Mary Help of Christians Parish to celebrate Christmas in the restive Tambura County which has endured violence since mid-2021.
The celebration brought together worshippers from various displacement camps, many of whom have been forced from their homes by years of violence.
Despite the hardships, the community came together to mark the sacred holiday, filling the church with hymns and prayers that echoed messages of hope and peace.
Rev. Santino Makuei, the parish priest, described the celebration as a profound act of faith.
“Christmas is a time of hope and love, and our people have shown that even in the most challenging circumstances, faith can sustain us,” said Rev. Makuei. “It is a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and that God’s love is ever-present,” Makuei told the Dawn in an interview.
He expressed gratitude for the courage and determination of the displaced community, many of whom made significant efforts to attend the mass despite limited resources and ongoing security concerns.
The violence in Tambura between the Azande and Balanda communities has displaced thousands of residents, forcing them to live in overcrowded camps with scarce access to basic necessities.
The persistent insecurity has disrupted daily life, restricting movement and leaving many families reliant on humanitarian aid.
Despite these challenges, the Christmas celebration offered a moment of solace and unity.
For many, it symbolized the power of faith to inspire resilience and a sense of community, even in the darkest times.
Local leaders and Rev. Makuei called on stakeholders to work towards peace and reconciliation in Tombura.
“Let this celebration remind us of the importance of peace.We pray that one day, all our people can return to their homes and live without fear,” said Makuei.
The Christmas mass in Tambura stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the community, offering hope for a brighter future even amidst ongoing challenges.
