Juba, Yei, Lainya, and many other parts of Equatoria, a region in southern South Sudan, are badly affected. After heavy fighting at the start of July 2016, a tentative ceasefire has been declared between the main warring parties in Juba, but outbreaks of violence persist in many parts of the country.
Military build-up by government and rebel forces continues, and much prayer is needed.
Many hundreds are already dead, and thousands of people are displaced. Many of the displaced are relying on churches and community leaders who have very little tangible assistance to offer. Fear turns to despair, and hope is something that seems very far away.
We can be that hope.
This is a time when we must stand with the families who are most badly affected; the most urgently needed items are as follows:
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Food
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Blankets
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Mosquito nets
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Other essential items needed to cope during this crisis
A gift of $58 can help bring significant support to a family in desperate need.
When people flee they set up temporary camps, but with the prospect of a long wait before it’s safe to return home, anxiety and despair can quickly overcome them.
Please pray for the following:
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That people will put aside their tribal and political affiliations so that ethnic tensions are reduced. John 15:12 says, “This is my command; love one another as I love you.”
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That all will be willing to repent (admitting sins and failures, seeking forgiveness).
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That repentance will lead to gradual process of reconciliation. Reconciliation after conflict and extreme trauma takes time and the healing process is slow.
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For God's protection and care over those who are bereaved, stranded, and injured.
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For God's protection and strength for all those who are bringing assistance to the wounded, and those who have lost their homes.
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For safety and health of World Renew staff in South Sudan who are working in very difficult conditions.
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That people using social media on all sides of the conflict in South Sudan will stop using abusive language, hate speech, and provocative pictures which are generating hatred and triggering new waves of violence.
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For all the church leaders in South Sudan, that they will be strong and able to help bring calm and reduce tensions by sharing powerful Christian messages.
World Renew has a long-term commitment to standing with the people of South Sudan. We work with those who are innocent yet deeply affected by the actions of military and political leaders. We are already helping the displaced people and those who have lost everything.
We cannot stop helping because conditions are difficult. New dangers appear every week, but we feel called to address the emergency needs of the people. Prayer and action are our tools.
Please help World Renew so that rapid support and relief can be provided.
Blessings,
Hedd Thomas
Country Representative
World Renew South Sudan