SOUTH SUDAN: Make Safeguarding Part of Priestly Formation, Bishop says at SSBC Workshop

Bishop Alex Lodiong Sakor Eyobo of the Diocese of Yei called for safeguarding to be integrated into priestly formation during a two-day training workshop. The event, organized by the National Safeguarding Office of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference, focused on the theme of speaking up for those unable to speak for themselves.

More than 30 Church personnel attended the training, including chancellors, religious superiors, and vicars general from dioceses throughout Sudan and South Sudan. Bishop Sakor Eyobo stated that protecting children and vulnerable adults is a central pastoral duty, noting that these individuals are at higher risk of abuse and exploitation.

The bishop urged Church leaders to move beyond administrative procedures and make safeguarding a part of everyday pastoral practice. He emphasized that Church institutions must provide safe environments where people are treated with dignity and warned against the misuse of authority.