By Emmanuel Mandella

As the Episcopal Church of South Sudan (ECSS) Diocese of Yambio gears up for the centenary celebration of its cathedral, religious leaders and faithful are emphasizing the event’s significance as a milestone of faith, unity, and history in Western Equatoria State.

The celebrations, scheduled for April 9 to11, 2025, will mark 100 years since the construction of the Yambio Cathedral, a testament to the enduring presence of Christianity in the region. The event will bring together christians from different denominations, leaders, and dignitaries to honor a century of faith and evangelism.

During his visit to the ECSS Yambio Cathedral over the weekend to show his solidarity and support to ECSS faithful ahead of the 100 years celebration, Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, described the upcoming celebration as a blessing for the church and the entire community in the state.

“The ECSS Diocese of Yambio is celebrating a centenary of the construction of the cathedral-a hundred years, it is a blessing for us, for the church, and a key part of our history of evangelization. We, as the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio, stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in faith,” Bishop Hiiboro said.

He emphasized on the unity between Christian denominations in Western Equatoria State, revealing that a Catholic delegation, including religious sisters, youth, priests, and laypeople, had visited the ECSS Diocese of Yambio to offer their support.

“For seven days, we have been praying for them, for Archbishop Samuel Peni, and for the success of this great celebration. This cathedral is not just a building, it is a symbol of unity, progress, and holiness,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Archbishop Samuel Peni of the ECSS Internal Province of Western Equatoria and Bishop of Yambio Diocese welcomed the show of solidarity, calling it an affirmation of the shared mission of the church.

“This centenary is a reminder that we are one in Christ. The celebration is not just for the Episcopal Church, but it is for all Christians and all people of good will in Western Equatoria. We invite everyone to join us in thanksgiving for what the Lord has done,” Archbishop Peni said.

Faithful across Yambio have expressed their excitement about the event, viewing it as an opportunity to celebrate both their spiritual and cultural heritage.

“This centenary means so much to us. It is a time to reflect on our faith and remember the sacrifices of those who came before us to spread the Gospel,” said Alice Tambua, a devoted member of the ECSS Yambio Diocese.

Religious leaders believe that such a grand celebration will not only strengthen faith but also promote unity and social cohesion in a region that has experienced instability in the past.