Bishop Emmanuel Murye Modi of the diocese of Kajo-Keji has made an appeal for practical assistance amid ongoing security concerns. Bishop Modi says that the situation locally has calmed after a recent spate of violence, but over 90 percent of people in several districts had fled to Uganda for refuge. Over 70 percent of the people in other local districts had sought safety within internally displaced camps: “The church is encouraging people to stay, even if it means gathering into churches for security and other services” he said. Bishop Modi appealed to the international community for food and medical supplies for the internally displaced and the “remants” of Kajo-Kehi as well as logistical support to help the Diocese be mobile around Kajo-Keji and to assist in refugee camps in Uganda.

Meanwhile, despite the ongoing insecurity, a neighbouring Diocese, the Diocese of Yei has celebrated its centenary anniversary, marking 100 years since it was founded as a mission station by the CMS missionary,  Rev Paul Gibson.

Many Christians from Juba travelled to Yei to witness the historic occasion, officiated by the President of the Republic of South Sudan. The Archbishop of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan,  the Rt Rev Daniel Deng Bul and many other Bishops in the country were in attendance, as well as visitors from CMS Northern Ireland, CMS England, Sudan, DR Congo and Uganda.