Juba Church Violence Reports Raise Alarm
The Greater Mundri Community Organisation (GMCO) is urging urgent dialogue after reported violent clashes between members of the Moru Congregation and the Diocese of Juba. Accounts describe church compounds shifting from worship spaces to scenes of tension and injury.
Clashes Reported at St. Paul, St. Andrew, St. Thomas
According to the reports cited by GMCO, violence allegedly erupted at St. Paul Parish Church in Nyakuron, with clergy reportedly injured. Heightened tensions were also reported at St. Andrew Parish Church in Kubir Habuba and St. Thomas Parish Church in Munuki.
GMCO Chair Lawrence Korbandy Condemns Violence
In a press statement, GMCO Chairperson Amb. Lawrence Korbandy said the community received the reports “with dismay” and underlined dialogue as the priority response.
“The Greater Mundri Community Organization learned with great dismay of violent clashes that took place in St. Paul Parish Church, Nyakuron, reportedly resulting in injuries of the clergy,” Amb. Korbandy said.
Places of Worship Must Remain Peaceful
Korbandy said GMCO “strongly registers its disapproval to violence and any violent actions in the churches,” framing houses of worship as institutions that should protect unity and reconciliation.
“We strongly disapprove of violence and any violent actions in the churches,” he added. “Churches are sacred spaces meant for prayer, peace, and unity.”
Dispute Linked to Church Ownership and Administration
The statement encouraged both the Moru Congregation and the Diocese of Juba to avoid further confrontation. The dispute was described as relating to church ownership and administration, an issue Korbandy suggested should be addressed through structured engagement rather than force.
Call for Dialogue and Non-Violent Conflict Resolution
“We encourage the adversary groups of the ECSS in the Parish Churches of St. Paul, St. Andrew and St. Thomas to refrain from violence and embrace peace, dialogue, and non-violent conflict resolution,” Korbandy stated.
He argued that Christian principles favour de-escalation, citing Matthew 18:15–16 and Isaiah 1:18 as guidance to reason together and settle differences amicably.
GMCO Offers to Facilitate Mediation Efforts
Korbandy said GMCO is ready to take a constructive role in helping the parties open channels of communication and address underlying causes.
“We therefore call upon the Moru Congregation and the Diocese of Juba to engage in dialogue by fostering prudent communication between them,” he said. “The GMCO is ready to facilitate the peaceful process to address the root causes of the conflict.”
Appeal for Calm to Protect Community Harmony
Korbandy also appealed to congregants to remain calm and allow dialogue efforts to proceed. He warned that continued violence could weaken faith institutions and strain broader community cohesion, at a moment when many believers look to churches for stability.