Archbishop Seamus Patrick Horgan, Arrives as First Resident Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan
Archbishop Seamus Patrick Horgan, Arrives as First Resident Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan
Newly appointed Apostolic Nuncio to South Sudan, His Excellency Archbishop Seamus Patrick Horgan has finally jetted today 29th August 2024 in Juba.
Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Horgan on 14th May 2024, the Holy Father appointed the Msgr. Séamus Patrick Horgan the enunciator counsellor, as Apostolic Nuncio resident in South Sudan, at the same time elevating him to the titular see of Árd Sratha, with the dignity of Archbishop. He will be a resident Vatican Ambassador representing the Holy See in South Sudan.
Addressing the people of South Sudan during his official welcome to South Sudan, Archbishop Horgan expressed that he is already at home.
“Thank you for embracing that decision of Pope Francis and for embracing me, already South Sudan is beginning to hold a place in my heart, and I’m confident this will be a fruitful mission”.
He added, “You know that when the Pope came last year you remember he said that South Sudan is a very special place in his heart and so, I think he wanted to send a resident representative so that his presence would be here in a more stable manner and that’s what my presence I suppose represents too”.
On the other hand, the Auxiliary Bishop of Juba Archdiocese Santo Loku Pio expressing his joy said, “We are happy to welcome among us Archbishop Seamus, the first Apostolic Nuncio resident in South Sudan”.
He recalled that while South Sudan had previously been served by Nuncios, they were not stationed within the country.
“In the past, we have had Nuncios, but they were residing elsewhere. For the first time, following the visit of the Holy Father, he has now appointed for us a permanent representative who will be staying with us here in Juba”.
In his speech, he noted that the presence of the Apostolic Nuncio will have a positive impact on the relationship between South Sudan and the Vatican.
“Your Grace, the Christian community, and the people of God in the Republic of South Sudan are delighted to welcome you among us. Your presence will strengthen the diplomatic relationship with the Holy See”.
Representing the South Sudan government, Ambassador Philip Jada the Minister of Foreign Affairs conveying the message on behalf of the government noted, “We are all excited to welcome you here as the first resident of Nuncio in South Sudan and the representative of the Holy See”.
The Ambassador expressed that they are ready to collaborate with the Nuncio saying, “this is a joyous occasion to welcome you to South Sudan, and it is truly a blessing. We look forward to working with you.”
