Two Sudanese pastors in a South Sudanese refugee settlement have received death threats following an earlier attack by Muslim extremists. One pastor reported that a man lingered outside his home in a nearby city, an incident linked to a previous assault on his leg. Police arrested the suspect, who remains in custody. The regional Christian council was notified of the threats, which stem from extremist views against the church's evangelistic efforts. Camp leaders are calling for increased protection for Christian converts, who face significant risks in the overcrowded settlement.
South Sudan’s church leaders appealed for international solidarity ahead of the nation's first elections since independence in 2011. A delegation from the South Sudan Council of Churches met with Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally and other Christian leaders at Lambeth Palace in the UK. The group highlighted ongoing challenges, including conflict, climate impacts, and severe food insecurity. In response, UK church officials pledged support and prayer, acknowledging the difficult living conditions faced by the population. President Salva Kiir has scheduled the December vote, with religious leaders urging the world not to forget the country during this critical transition.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Sheila C on UnsplashPersecuted church
The South Sudan Council of Churches has urged immediate action to stop inter-communal violence in Tonj North County, Warrap State, following attacks that killed at least 72 people on October 27. General Secretary Rev. Tut Kony Nyang Kon stated the ecumenical group is distraught by the deaths and called for restraint from all parties. The violence, driven by cattle rustling and political tensions, has created a cycle of revenge killings. Church leaders are engaging with local committees and urging state authorities to protect civilians and address root causes to prevent further escalation.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Hongbin on UnsplashPersecuted church
At least 84 people were killed in two intercommunal attacks in Tonj North county, Warrap state, South Sudan, on October 27 and 28. Local authorities report that livestock was stolen and markets burned. Civil society groups and churches are urging the government to intervene in these recurring conflicts. Meanwhile, the UN Human Rights Commission warned the Security Council that President Salva Kiir dismantled the 2018 peace deal, calling it an institutional coup. The country faces upcoming elections in December amid rising political tensions and concerns over civilian protection.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Kaysha on UnsplashPersecuted church
Six Young Life South Sudan workers were released on October 1 after being abducted on September 26 in Western Equatoria state. Pastor David Nyoma John reported that unidentified gunmen ambushed the group near Maridi, burning their vehicle and holding them for five days under harsh conditions. The victims, all native South Sudanese, reported beatings and confiscation of personal items. Catholic Bishop Eduardo Hiinoro Kussala condemned the attack, urging armed groups to stop targeting civilians. This incident occurs amid ongoing violence in South Sudan, where Christians have faced increasing targeted attacks and killings in recent months.
Intense intercommunal fighting erupted in Rumbek, the capital of Lakes State, South Sudan, on October 9. Clashes between Nyang and Pakam youth resulted in over 70 deaths, including four soldiers. The violence, driven by disputes over cattle and land, has severely impacted local Christian communities. Pastors report that fear has disrupted worship services, with congregants afraid to gather. Although Christians were not specifically targeted for their faith, the instability has caused significant grief and displacement. Local leaders, including former Archbishop Alapayo Manyang Kuctiel, are hoped to assist in addressing the needs of affected families and promoting reconciliation in the region.
A Nigerian organization reports that Islamic jihadists have killed approximately 7,500 Christians across Africa in the first ten months of the year. The outlet attributes thousands of deaths and abductions to Nigeria, alongside significant casualties in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additional losses are recorded in Mozambique, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Burkina Faso. The group states that over 1,000 churches were destroyed or burned, including hundreds in Nigeria. These figures highlight the escalating violence against Christian communities in the region during this period.
South Sudan’s church leaders called for an immediate halt to hostilities during a press conference in Juba on Tuesday. The South Sudan Council of Churches warned that armed violence, youth mobilization, and inter-communal fighting are killing and displacing civilians while disrupting humanitarian operations. Primate Justin Badi Arama highlighted the deteriorating security situation across multiple regions, including Upper Nile, Jonglei, Unity, Warrap, and Equatoria states. The council urged the government, armed groups, and communities to protect civilians, ensure humanitarian access, and pursue dialogue over retaliation. This appeal comes amid ongoing instability following the 2018 peace agreement between President Salva Kiir and Riek Machar.
In Uganda and South Sudan, traditional rainmakers face increasing violence from farming communities when weather patterns fail or cause floods. In eastern Uganda, David Nabutsilili was beaten after excessive rain flooded crops, while in South Sudan, at least two rainmakers were killed in recent years due to drought. The Associated Press reports that erratic climate change has heightened expectations, leading to assaults or killings when rituals do not yield desired results. Farmers blame these spiritual leaders for crop failures, despite the complex nature of weather. The quid pro quo payment system often fuels conflict when refunds are denied after perceived failures.
A mother of six fled Sudan for a refugee camp in South Sudan after enduring severe domestic violence linked to her conversion to Christianity. She left during a major holiday to protect her unborn child. Despite finding shelter, she faces renewed threats from men who tracked her down. A local church partner states that while they provide support, she requires protection and relocation to ensure her family's safety from further attacks. The outlet highlights her continued faith amidst ongoing trauma and fear.
A Juba County Court in South Sudan dismissed a criminal case against six Moru Congregation leaders on 18 August 2026. The court ruled that the Episcopal Diocese of Juba lacked legal capacity to file the charges because it is an unincorporated association without legal personality. The six accused, including Canon Rev O’neil Yosia Diama, were discharged immediately. The case stemmed from a long-standing dispute over church administration and property autonomy. While the legal victory is significant, Moru leaders urge dialogue to resolve the underlying conflict over church control and the closure of the Nyokuran church. The Diocese has 15 days to appeal.
A recent Christian convert from Sudan fled to South Sudan after an Islamic militia attacked his village and his family threatened his life due to his new faith. According to International Christian Concern, the convert struggled as a refugee until the organization provided him with a motorbike earlier this year. This asset allows him to earn an income and pay school fees for himself and his niece. The convert states that the support has restored his hope and peace, enabling him to rebuild his life and secure education for his family member. The aid addresses the economic hardships faced by refugees in the region.
World Vision has published a report outlining 13 major humanitarian crises that affected millions of people in 2026. The organization highlights severe emergencies in various nations, including Afghanistan, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Syria, and Ukraine. Specific events include a significant earthquake in Colombia and an Ebola outbreak in the DRC. The outlet states that these disasters have disrupted education, health services, and livelihoods for children and families. World Vision reports providing aid to tens of millions of people through health, nutrition, and protection programs in response to these ongoing emergencies.
Representatives from South Sudanese faith groups and civil society met with British Parliamentarians at Westminster to highlight the country's ongoing humanitarian crisis. Speakers, including Reverend Tut Mai Nguoth and Angelina Nyajima Jial, emphasized that churches remain central to peace and development despite tribalism, unpaid civil servants, and rising poverty. They criticized the reduction in UK aid and the low percentage of funding reaching local NGOs compared to UN agencies. James Wani of Christian Aid urged long-term partnership with local actors to strengthen governance. The group called for increased investment in conflict prevention and greater solidarity with South Sudanese communities.
A missionary team is preparing for a ministry event in a refugee settlement in Uganda. The initiative targets pregnant women arriving from neighboring countries who often lack resources for safe childbirth. Organizers plan to distribute sealed 'Mama Kits' containing essential hygiene and delivery supplies, alongside reusable diaper and menstruation kits. The event also includes educational sessions on prenatal and postnatal care. According to the outlet, the program aims to support maternal health while sharing a religious message about the value of women. Local partners will assist the team in this effort.
South Sudan’s church leaders appealed for international solidarity ahead of the nation's first elections since independence in 2011. A delegation from the South Sudan Council of Churches met with Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally and other Christian leaders at Lambeth Palace in the UK. The group highlighted ongoing challenges, including conflict, climate impacts, and severe food insecurity. In response, UK church officials pledged support and prayer, acknowledging the difficult living conditions faced by the population. President Salva Kiir has scheduled the December vote, with religious leaders urging the world not to forget the country during this critical transition.
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Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Aaron Burden on UnsplashGood news
A senior church coordinator in Nigeria received a faith award from a national Christian association. The recipient reflected on ongoing conflicts across several African nations, emphasizing the urgent need for churches to promote reconciliation and dialogue across religious and ethnic lines. He stated that peacebuilding is an essential part of Christian mission and expressed gratitude for the recognition as motivation to continue his work in Africa. The outlet reports this event highlights the critical role of religious leaders in fostering unity amidst regional instability.
Catholic leaders across the continent responded to new statistics showing the African Catholic population has surpassed Europe's total. Bishops from several nations described this growth as a missionary opportunity rather than a competition. They attributed the increase to strong family bonds, dedicated catechists, and active pastoral presence. The leaders emphasized a fraternal exchange, noting that while Africa receives gifts from other churches, it now shares its own vocations and faith witness with the universal Church. This demographic shift highlights the region's spiritual vitality and its growing role in global Christianity.
Cleft Support International, supported by the Catholic Diocese of Wau and the Lakes State Ministry of Health, launched a free cleft lip surgery campaign at Rumbek State Hospital in South Sudan. Acting Medical Director Dr. Gabriel Makuac Chuor stated that approximately 20 patients will undergo surgery, with discharge occurring immediately after the procedure. James Tarzoh of Cleft Support International noted that the service covers surgery, medication, and transport for children aged three months and older. A second session is scheduled for November 8-9, 2026, to treat those who missed the initial event. The initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens on families in the region.
Health officials in South Sudan announced a vision restoration initiative in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State. The project, led by Christian Blind Mission alongside the Episcopal Church of South Sudan and local authorities, aims to assist 5,000 residents. Operations started in Aweil East County following work in Aweil North County. Dr. Aguer Angok stated that 1,500 individuals will receive cataract surgeries, while 3,500 others will access general eye care. Beneficiaries like David Mathok Ngong hope to return to farming, and patients such as Daniel Garang Aleu have already regained sight. The effort addresses significant visual impairments in the region.
Christian and Muslim leaders in Sudan’s Nuba Mountains issued a joint statement calling for an end to armed conflict and hate speech. Following a consultation in a neighboring country, major religious councils urged parties to respect a recent ceasefire. The leaders highlighted that fighting in a specific county has caused deaths, displacement, and property destruction. They called for inclusive dialogue, justice, and humanitarian aid to address root causes and promote reconciliation among communities in the region, emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable populations from further violence.
Leaders in Yei River County, South Sudan, gathered at Yei Freedom Square on Monday to mark the International Day of Peace. The event, themed around investing in peace, brought together government officials, religious figures, and community members. Catholic Bishop Alex Lodiong Sakor emphasized that dialogue, not firearms, ensures lasting stability. James Wani Banja noted recent peace improvements but criticized checkpoint violations. County Chairlady Alice Siama highlighted domestic violence, while Executive Director Hillary Lokudu urged calm participation in upcoming elections. The UN observes this day annually to promote global harmony.
The DAFI scholarship program has admitted 650 new students in South Sudan for the 2026 academic year, exceeding the total number of beneficiaries from the previous nine years. Officials announced the selection at an event in Juba, noting that the cohort includes refugees, returnees, and, for the first time, students from host communities. The Lutheran World Federation and UNHCR implemented the competitive process, which drew approximately 1,400 applications. This expansion aims to support higher education in fields like medicine and education, fostering long-term protection and community development for displaced and local populations.
Mass prayers were conducted in Turalei and Abyei town over the weekend to prevent renewed conflict between the Ngok Dinka and Twic communities in South Sudan. The South Sudan Council of Churches and faith groups organized the events amid rising social media tensions and a seven-day ultimatum issued by Twic officials. Abionweng Majith Diing, the Abyei peace minister, welcomed the initiatives as efforts to preserve peaceful relations. Meanwhile, Warrap State minister William Wol Mayom stated that those inciting violence are operating outside state jurisdiction. The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) has also called for restraint as armed youth are reportedly being mobilized in the disputed area.
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