Coptic Orthodox Church Published Pastoral Message on the Violence and Unrest in Sudan
Gerges Mounir Hanna – OCP News Service – 03/06/2023
Cairo – Egypt: Coptic Orthodox Church on June 02, 2023, published a pastoral Message on the violence and unrest in Sudan. This was published in the context of reports of the devastation and displacement that is now faced by the Sudanese population which include a large and vibrant community in the dioceses of Khartoum and Omdurman.
As the Coptic Orthodox Church prepares for the Feast of Pentecost, the hearts of her people are filled with sadness and concern for the people of Sudan as they experience increasing violence that is affecting the whole nation. The Coptic Orthodox Church has a large and vibrant community in Sudan situated in the dioceses of Khartoum and Omdurman, from which we have been receiving reports of the devastation and displacement that is now faced by the hundreds of thousands who have been forced to flee their homes and livelihoods to seek safety. Our prayers are with them all, as well as those who have decided not to leave, or have been unable to escape safely.
In recent weeks, along with the ongoing and escalating unrest and violence in the general community, there have been reports of targeted attacks on churches and church properties, and these have placed our laity and clergy at great risk. Churches and church properties have been attacked, looted and seized by armed groups, and nuns and senior clergy have been relocated for their own safety.
While calling upon all around the world to pray for Sudan as a nation and a people suffering greatly, we also appeal to policy makers and those in authority to do all they can to restore order and the rule of law that ensures the safety of every person, and the restoration of peace for all.
Alongside prayer, the Church around the world is raising awareness to the plight of those in Sudan and is raising funds to support those in desperate need of financial assistance as a result of the war. And the bishopric of the public and social services is currently attending the needs of the Sudanese in Egypt, such as providing housing, treatment, and financial and food assistance. It is at times like these that our love for one another shines the light of our Lord Jesus Christ into the world, for in darkness light is ever more visible, remembering the instruction of our loving Lord, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, NKJV).
We lift up our hearts and our prayers to a loving God and Father of all, Who is aware of our struggles, hardships and pain, and Who will never abandon us in our time of need. We pray for all those affected, including those around the world with loved ones in Sudan, and who are deeply concerned for their safety. We remain reassured by the promises of our God, especially in times of difficulty, “For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5, NKJV).
Source: Coptic Orthodox Church
OCP News Service
