Bentiu: As South Sudan celebrates 14 years of independence, Bishop Christian Carlassare of Bentiu delivered a heartfelt appeal to his people: peace must not remain a distant dream or lofty slogan, but must take root in the everyday lives of citizens.
Marking the nation’s independence anniversary, Bishop Carlassare called on the faithful to embody peace through tangible actions shaped by Gospel values. “We often speak of peace,” he said, “but then act in ways that fuel division. Peace cannot remain an abstract idea it must be lived, built, and seen in our conduct every single day.”
In his pastoral message ahead of the July 9 celebrations, Bishop Carlassare highlighted the importance of integrity in public life. He urged those in positions of responsibility whether in government, community leadership, or civil service to serve with transparency and a vision for the common good. “Honesty in our work, fairness in leadership, and care for all not just one group are the foundations for true peace,” he said.
His message comes as South Sudan continues to face internal strife and persistent insecurity. Violent clashes between forces of the SPLM-IO and the SSPDF have left a trail of devastation displacing thousands and shaking hopes of national unity.
Against this backdrop, Bishop Carlassare’s call is more than symbolic. He reminded South Sudanese Christians that peacemaking starts at home: in how we speak, in how we treat our neighbors, and in our willingness to place the needs of the nation above personal or ethnic interests. “When we choose corruption or favoritism,” he warned, “we erode the very freedom we claim to celebrate. Our institutions must be rebuilt on justice and accountability.”
Looking ahead to the crucial 2026 national elections, Bishop Carlassare urged citizens to view the electoral process not just as a political milestone but as a moral turning point. “This election must be peaceful, fair, and credible,” he said. “It is a critical opportunity to shape a new chapter for South Sudan one that is defined by unity, dignity, and shared responsibility.”
As the country reflects on its journey toward statehood, Bishop Carlassare’s voice echoes as a prophetic reminder: independence is not just won once it must be nurtured every day through a commitment to peace that begins in the heart and spreads to every corner of society.