By William Madouk
Members from the Council of States sought divine guidance before embarking on a month-long recess to visit their constituencies. The 100 members conducted a spiritual retreat session for God’s intervention.
On Thursday, the Council of States and South Sudan Council of Churches teamed up in a retreat to reflect on Ecumenical messages by the top global faith leaders, Pope Francis of the Roman Catholic Church, Justin Welby, the head of Anglican Communion, and Ian Greenfield, the head of Presbyterian Church.
The MPs were given spiritual sustenance by senior clerics; Cardinal Dr. Stephen Ameyu, Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Juba, Justin Badi Arama, Primate of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan (ECSS).
His eminence Cardinal Ameyu, who reflected on the Ecumenical messages called on the MPs to work for the greater good of society by putting aside their party and personal interests.
“The Archbishop (Welby)’s message aimed to inspire the members of the council to prioritize the well-being of the nation and unite for the common good,” said Ameyu.
“The religious leaders emphasized that the council members have a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future and ensuring the well-being of its people,” he added.
Cardinal Ameyu underscored that the global faith leaders’ message centered on compassion, justice, inclusivity, and harmony and urged MPs to prioritize these principles in their work for the betterment of society.
Meanwhile, the first deputy speaker of the Council of States, Mary Ayen stated that the retreat was to reflect on the messages of the churches.
“So, I think… The church thought that it is wise for us to go for this recess with some messages from the church. And these messages reflected actually on the messages that were from the church leaders,” said Ayen.
“They reflected on a range of issues. Issues to do with peacebuilding. Issues to do with forgiveness and healing, taking care and spreading the love,” she added.
She added that the retreat also was a reflection on oneself before one spread the message of love to others.
“So, I feel that the retreat itself is a reflection on oneself before you reflect on what you need to do to the people or what you give to them.”
Furthermore, the Deputy speaker implored the South Sudanese to embrace peace.
“I can say that let’s try to do the best that we can, it is always easy when telling people let’s unite, let’s do peace. But in practice, it’s completely different,” she continued “So what I can say is that let’s try the best that we can do, and if the will is there, then there will be always a way.”
On Wednesday, the Council of States announced to go for recess until the first of February 2024.
She stated that the Upper House will take a half-break for a month-long recess and return early to clear backlog bills as the 2018 peace deal draws to a close.
Mrs. Ayen highlighted they have not yet received recess allowance but assured that they would get a three-month salary for each MP to facilitate their movement to their constituencies.