Please join Catholic Relief Services and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops for a live online

Catholics Confront Global Poverty web chat:

Is Peace Still Possible One Year Later: Commemorating the Anniversary of South Sudans Independence
July 11, 2012 12:00-1:00 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time

RSVP now
Background: The war between Sudan and South Sudan is threatening to return. The hope and promise of lasting peace and stability after South Sudan seceded from Sudan last year on July 9, 2011 hang in the balance. People in large areas of both countries are suffering from hunger and violence. Negotiations between Sudan and South Sudan over final border demarcations, oil revenue sharing, and citizenship have come to an impasse. Violence has increased between the two nations. South Sudan has ceased oil production, threatening the economies of both countries. The border areas of South Kordofan and Blue Nile are experiencing violence and severe hunger, but are cut off from aid, causing thousands to flee into South Sudan. The status and security of people of southern origin residing in Sudan is precarious. Inter-communal violence in South Sudan--primarily in the Jonglei and Unity states--has killed more than a thousand people and brought widespread hunger and displacement. While some have returned to their homes, the suffering and insecurity of the people in Darfur largely continues unabated. Join us for opportunities: To hear about the Churchs peacebuilding and solidarity work in South Sudan, and how that work is impacted by Congress; To ask questions and engage in dialogue with staff on the ground in South Sudan, and those supporting the ongoing work there; To review USCCB and CRS policy recommendations, based on Catholic social teaching and our experience, as to how U.S. policy can make a difference; and, To learn about how Catholics in the United States, through the Catholics Confront Global Poverty initiative, can make a difference for our brothers and sisters living in poverty in Sudan and South Sudan and throughout the world. For more information:
Visit our website to find out background information on Sudan/South Sudan and resources to share with your community, such as this Prayer for Peace. Find out more about the work of the International Justice and Peace office at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and their support for Sudan/South Sudan. Learn about CRS ongoing work in North and South Sudan. Learn more about the Catholics Confront Global Poverty initiative and join now.