South Sudan faces immense challenges due to warfare and natural disasters, displacing over two million individuals. Ave Maria parish, supported by New Ways, has transformed from a refugee camp into a community sanctuary featuring educational institutions and a health center. Fr. Avelino Bassols highlights ongoing issues of insecurity, economic decline, and healthcare inadequacies while illustrating the community’s resilience and progress achieved through available support.
In South Sudan, a nation grappling with the consequences of ongoing conflict and natural disasters, countless families are compelled to abandon their homes in the face of sudden calamities. With over two million individuals displaced due to warfare and environmental catastrophes, the search for refuge becomes paramount. Amidst this harrowing backdrop lies Ave Maria parish, supported by the charity New Ways, which has evolved from a refugee camp to a sanctuary for the homeless and war-affected community. Fr. Avelino Bassols, the parish’s leading figure, recently communicated the challenges encountered through an email report to New Ways CEO Angela Docherty. He recounted distressing events, including the disappearance of a fellow priest, which intensified local insecurity and displaced even more individuals to Ave Maria. The deteriorating economic climate has compounded difficulties, with the South Sudan Pound witnessing a dramatic decline in value since the country’s independence in 2011. Despite these hardships, Ave Maria parish has established essential educational and health facilities, including three nursery schools, two primary schools, a secondary school, and a vocational training center. The latter offers a variety of trades, including carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and soon tailoring. In a region where the economy is fragile, educational advancements demonstrate significant progress. The St. Peter Health Centre serves as a critical referral point amidst poor healthcare availability in South Sudan, which is exacerbated by a shortage of qualified medical staff and facilities. With only two consultation rooms and basic amenities, the center provides vital services to a vast community, with outreach efforts including home visits for those unable to travel. Notably, an annual eye-health campaign facilitates much-needed procedures for local patients. In light of ongoing supply chain issues and infrastructural deficiencies, the relentless efforts of the Ave Maria team, bolstered by New Ways’ support, create a beacon of hope in a beleaguered region. Through commitment and resilience, significant strides are being made to improve living conditions despite the stark challenges posed by violence and poverty.
The situation in South Sudan remains dire, characterized by civil war, extreme poverty, and a lack of proper healthcare and educational infrastructures. Since its independence in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with political instability, leading to millions of people being displaced. The humanitarian crisis is further exacerbated by natural disasters such as floods, which often displace entire communities. Against this backdrop, organizations like New Ways and local leaders such as Fr. Avelino Bassols at Ave Maria parish are striving to provide essential services to meet pressing needs for shelter, education, and healthcare while fostering a sense of community among those affected.
The narrative surrounding Ave Maria parish and its efforts illustrates a remarkable commitment to overcoming adversity in South Sudan. Despite significant challenges related to safety, economic stability, and healthcare access, the community’s resilience and the support from organizations like New Ways have facilitated vital services and educational opportunities. The experiences shared by Fr. Avelino Bassols underscore the critical need for continued support and intervention in order to foster sustainable development in one of the world’s most challenging environments.
Original Source: www.indcatholicnews.com
