Khartoum – “The violent death of a priest while faithfully serving God’s people is a tragedy that touches the very heart of the Church,” wrote Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro Kussala of Tombura-Yambio in South Sudan in his message of condolence for the death of Father Youhanna Al-Amin, who was violently killed on June 19 in Kauda in the Nuba Mountains .
“Father Youhanna was not simply a parish priest,” Bishop Kussala emphasized. “He was a shepherd, a servant of hope, a messenger of peace, and a witness to the Gospel. His loss is a painful wound for the Diocese of El Obeid, for the Church in Sudan, and for all of us who believe in the sacred dignity of every human life.”
“As bishops of Sudan and South Sudan, united in the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference, we stand together in solidarity with the Diocese of El Obeid and with all those who mourn the death of Fr. Yuhana Al Amin,” Archbishop Kussala continued.
The Bishop of Tombura-Yambio emphasizes that the murder of Father Youhanna “reminds us of the immense sacrifices that priests, religious, catechists, and lay faithful continue to make in places marked by conflict and insecurity. It also reminds us that the mission of the Church is often carried out in difficult circumstances, where servants of God remain close to their people despite dangers and uncertainties.” For this reason, Bishop Kussala says, “The witness of Fr. Yuhana speaks eloquently of pastoral dedication, courage, and faithfulness to Christ and His people.”
With regard to the difficult situation in the Nuba Mountains, where the murdered priest had served for decades, Bishop Kussala emphasizes: “The Church has remained close to the people of the Nuba Mountains throughout their many trials.” “Her mission has always been to accompany the suffering, heal wounds, promote reconciliation, defend human dignity, and proclaim hope. Even in the darkest moments, the Church continues to be a sign that God has not abandoned His people,” he concludes.
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