Support the People of South Sudan This Christmas

During the Advent season, as we prepare for the joy of Christ’s birth, we are reminded that so many around the world are praying for a miracle.

For many of us, Christmas is a time to reflect, celebrate, feast, and rest. We gather with family and friends and give gifts to one another. But far away from the decorations and holiday gatherings we know so well, the people of South Sudan are suffering.

Through small, simple acts of love, our Franciscan friars are providing food, comfort, and healing to a population that has been through horrific tragedy.

  • $50 will help feed hungry children and families this Christmas
  • $100 will provide basic medical care for boys living on the streets of Juba
  • $250 will sustain the friars’ daily outreach to the poor and vulnerable
Will you join us?

Use code 25ABSR.

South Sudan is the world’s youngest country. It is also one of the most wounded.

Since gaining independence in 2011, the people of South Sudan have endured relentless conflict, famine, and displacement.

  • Floods and droughts have wiped out harvests.
  • Violence between ethnic groups continues to destroy homes, crops, and hope.
  • Millions have fled their villages with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

“You see the daily struggle . . . people farm during the rains, but when the harvest comes, armed groups
raid the fields. They steal everything.”

– Father Federico Gandolfi, OFM, a Franciscan missionary serving in South Sudan

Steadfast Service in the Face of Despair

Despite the danger and instability, the Franciscan friars continue to serve quietly and faithfully. Each day, hundreds of people flock to Holy Trinity Parish in the town of Juba and a new Franciscan mission in the town of Wau. Men, women, and children of all ages come seeking food, medicine, and a safe place to rest, including mothers with malnourished babies, elderly widows who have lost everything, and young people living on the streets who have known only war.

This Christmas, please help our Franciscan friars feed and care for the people of South Sudan.

In a land where nine million people need humanitarian aid, even $50 gives life.

Donate today

Use code 25ABSR.

A Reason for Joy

Amid the unimaginable hardship, there is a reason to hope.

Through your generosity, the friars host a soccer camp each December and January for more than 250 boys and girls from every tribe and faith. The three-week camp includes meals, soccer uniforms, connection with other children, and a retreat from the violence.

“The camp is not only about soccer,” says Fr. Federico. “It is about transforming lives, building peace, and giving children a reason to hope.” 

In the town of Wau, the Franciscan Order recently opened a second house in Ngodakala Parish, laying the groundwork for a lasting mission of peace and service there.

At Our Lady of the Angels Friary in the town of Juba, ten friars and young men in formation live and pray together. They are the next generation of missionaries being prepared to serve South Sudan. The friars also hope to build a new church at Holy Trinity Parish to offer a safe, welcoming home for worship and community in a place that has suffered so much.

Build the Holy Trinity Church

Use code 25ABSR.

Hunger and hardship are daily realities in South Sudan, but through your love, hope endures.

Please send your Christmas gift today to feed the people of South Sudan this winter.

Please, keep us in your prayers, that we may continue to be instruments of Jesus Christ among the poor and suffering in South Sudan. Your intentions will be remembered in our daily prayers and Masses throughout the Advent and Christmas seasons.

With gratitude in Christ and St. Francis,
Brother Andrew Brophy, OFM
Executive Director
Franciscan Missions