Adil Calls for Unity and Peace at Church Celebration in Juba

(JUBA) – The Governor of Central Equatoria State, Emmanuel Adil Anthony, has called on South Sudanese to embrace peace, unity and love as the country prepares for the coming year and future national elections.

Adil made the call on Sunday while attending the Jubilee of Hope celebrations during the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph at St Theresa Cathedral Parish in Kator, Juba. The event brought together worshippers, church leaders, and government officials.

Speaking during the Mass, the governor urged families to uphold Christian values and promote charity and social cohesion within their communities. He said strong families are important for peace and stability, especially as the country moves towards the general elections expected in 2026.

Governor Adil also encouraged believers to live together in harmony and support one another during challenging times. He said unity at family and community levels can help strengthen peace across South Sudan.

Former Minister of Environment, Josephine Napwon, also addressed the congregation and stressed the importance of family values. She urged people to love and support one another within their households, saying strong families form the foundation of a peaceful society.

During his homily, the Archbishop of Juba, Stephen Cardinal Ameyu, spoke about forgiveness and reconciliation. He said these values are essential for building strong families and communities and for healing divisions within the country.

The Feast of the Holy Family is observed by the Catholic Church as a reflection on the life of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as a model for family life. Church leaders said the celebration encourages families to draw lessons from the Holy Family in their daily lives.

In related developments, Governor Adil joined other senior government officials to convey Christmas greetings to President Salva Kiir Mayardit at his residence in Juba.

On Friday, December 26, 2025, President Kiir received Christmas messages and good wishes from vice presidents, advisers, cabinet ministers, senior military officers, and members of the diplomatic community. The officials congratulated him and wished him well as he continues to lead the country during a critical period.

Those who attended the gathering expressed confidence in the president’s leadership, especially as South Sudan prepares for national elections expected to take place next year. They said unity among leaders is important as the country faces political and economic challenges.

The president thanked the visitors for their messages and reaffirmed his commitment to serving the nation. He expressed hope that the coming year would strengthen peace, reconciliation, and humanity among South Sudanese.

Speaking to journalists, the Minister of Presidential Affairs, Africano Mande Gedima, said the president’s message of unity and collective action was well received. He noted that as the country prepares for elections in December 2026, cooperation among leaders and citizens remains essential.

Key Messages From the Christmas Season Events