On January 26, 2025, during his homily on the Sunday of the Word of God, Pope Francis not only emphasized the transformative power of the Gospel but also took the opportunity to address some of the world’s most pressing crises, which includes; the ongoing war in Sudan and the situation in Colombia.
The conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has spiraled into what the Pope described as “the most serious humanitarian crisis in the world.” The brutal war between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has torn the country apart, leaving millions displaced and thousands dead. With a heart full of compassion, Pope Francis expressed his closeness to the people of Sudan and South Sudan, urging them to embrace fraternity, solidarity, and peace. He called on all those involved in the conflict to end hostilities and come together at the negotiating table to find a peaceful resolution.
Pope Francis’s call for peace extends beyond Sudan. He also expressed deep concern for the situation in Colombia, particularly in the Catatumbo region, where clashes between armed groups have displaced over 30,000 people and claimed many civilian lives. The Pope assured the Colombian people of his prayers and solidarity, echoing the same message of peace and reconciliation.
In his message of solidarity, the Pope stressed the importance of the international community’s involvement in delivering much-needed humanitarian aid to the displaced and vulnerable. “Let us build a more fraternal, more just world,” he said, invoking the collective responsibility to alleviate the suffering of innocent civilians caught in the crossfire.
As the world grapples with these conflicts, Pope Francis’s words offer hope. They remind us that peace is not just a distant dream, but a responsibility we must all share one that requires compassion, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to building a world of justice and unity for all.
By Lornah Chenang’at
New People Media
