Catholic bishops, led by Cardinal Mulla, have urged tax exemptions for the Church in Sudan and South Sudan to enhance resources for pastoral and community services amid ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises in both nations.
Catholic bishops in Sudan and South Sudan have officially requested tax exemptions for the Church from both governments. At the Episcopal Conference on February 18, Cardinal Stephen Ameyu Martin Mulla, the Archbishop of Juba, emphasized that obtaining these exemptions is critical for addressing the financial difficulties faced by the Church. He remarked that such relief will allow the Church to distribute more resources towards essential pastoral activities and community services, highlighting the need for the Church to sustain its vibrant presence in communities.
Both nations have endured prolonged conflicts, significantly impacting their societies. Following its 2011 independence from Sudan, South Sudan fell into turmoil when President Salva Kiir accused former Vice-President Dr. Riek Machar of treason. As a result, approximately 400,000 individuals have died, and millions have been displaced, with violence persisting even after the formation of a coalition government in 2020.
In Sudan, conflict erupted two years ago between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, leading to the displacement of 12 million individuals who now require humanitarian assistance. Sudans situation has further been exacerbated by cuts to USAID funding, prompting agencies like Caritas Internationalis and Cafod to advocate for increased international aid, aligning with calls from the UN Office for Humanitarian Affairs and the UN Refugee Agency.
Cardinal Mulla addressed the need for a “robust response” from the Church in these challenging times, underscoring that more resources are essential. He stated, “As we reflect on the current situation in Sudan and South Sudan, we must acknowledge the many challenges that confront us.” He emphasized that the Church plays a vital role in the communities, not just as a spiritual entity but also as a key player in addressing social and economic issues through education, moral formation, and inter-religious dialogue, which are vital for promoting peace and unity.
In summary, Cardinal Mulla’s call for tax exemptions highlights the pressing financial challenges faced by the Church in Sudan and South Sudan. The ongoing conflicts in both nations necessitate a substantial Church response, reinforcing its role within the community. The bishops’ appeal for enhanced resources reflects their commitment to fostering social cohesion and supporting humanitarian efforts amid crises in these countries.
Original Source: www.thetablet.co.uk
