Fr. Sasa Urged Parishes, and Institutions to Create Safe “Heavens” for Displaced Families

Fr. Sasa Urged Parishes, and Institutions to Create Safe “Heavens” for Displaced Families

By Sr. Henriette Anne, FSSA

In an urgent plea for compassion and solidarity, Rev. Fr. Dominic Sasa, the Episcopal Vicar for Refugees, IDPs, and Migrants of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY), has called upon all parishes, institutions, and partners to extend their hands and hearts to those displaced by conflict and crisis.

In his letter dated 17^th May 2024, Fr. Sasa noted that as Christians the moral and spiritual duty is to welcome strangers and provide comfort to those in distress.

“We are called by our faith to welcome the stranger, to show compassion to those in need, and to offer solace to the afflicted. I urge all parishes, institutions, and partners to open their doors and hearts to these victims, individuals, and families”.

The letter underscores the importance of treating all displaced individuals with dignity, respect, and understanding imploring the community to listen to their stories, acknowledge their hardships, and offer them heaven.

“Please treat all IDPS, migrants, and Refugees with dignity, respect, and understanding. Listen to their stories, acknowledge their hardships, and offer them a safe heaven”.

Fr. Sasa draws particular attention to the severe situation in Tombura County and Mundri East, regions plagued by displacement and deprivation.

“As most of us are aware especially with the situation with our people in Tombura County and Mundri East in W.E. S. where our people have been internally displaced, they have no food, no water, their property has been burned they have no shelter people are dying of hunger and there is high malnutrition. Hence, old people, children, and women are the most victims of suffering; we are reminded of our kindness and responsibility”.

To effectively assist those seeking refuge, Fr. Sasa calls for the establishment of a registration system within each parish and institution which will help in coordinating support services in ensuring the well-being of the displaced.

“For those seeking shelter within your parish or institution, please establish a system for registration. This will help us to coordinate support services and ensure their well-being”.

As of 3^rd May 2024, in the updated list prepared by Lucy Edward the acting RCC, and coordinator of Tombura County shows that the number of IDPs in different camps is as follows;

He further emphasized the power of collective action, that by working together, the diocese can create a robust network of care and support for the vulnerable.

“By working together, we can create a network of care and support for these vulnerable members of our community. Together, we can embody the true spirit of our faith”.

In closing, Fr. Sasa extends a blessing to all who will heed this call to action; “May God bless you in your efforts to serve those in need”