New South Could Have Repercussions for North Sudan Christians

N. Sudan (MNN) ― As the world's newest country, South Sudan has held the headline spotlight since its July 9 secession from the North. Amid the excitement and concerns over what's to come for the new nation, however, Carl Moeller with Open Doors believes one group has been forgotten.

Moeller explains, "We are rejoicing that there are increased freedoms (and of course more challenges) in the South, but we have to ask the question: What about the Christians in the North?"

Christians have already been fleeing back to the South for fear of what is to come in the North. Open Doors reports that although many Christians are said to have returned to the South voluntarily, some observers have pointed out that they had departed because they could not be assured of their safety.

"The biggest challenge that they're facing right now is a decree from President Bashir that he is going to strengthen Sharia law after the secession is finalized," cautions Moeller.

Historically, the extension of Islamic law into society has never been a good thing for Christians. Sharia law varies in its strictness, depending on the interpretations of Islamic law, but in the past it has meant making Christians second-class citizens or, in some cases, even issuing their expulsion.

Concern over the possibility of such allegations surround the country's history with Sharia law, as well. Sudan was initially governed under Sharia rule in 1983, a decision which helped propel the nation into a decades-long civil war.

If conditions indeed heat up for Northern believers, Moeller says they still will likely have the freedom to leave the country. But a mass exodus of Christians is not necessarily a good thing, says Moeller. The church needs to be protected so Christ's light can reign even in the midst of difficulties.

There is a small but strong church in North Sudan that continues to grow, and Moeller says, "This is not a historical or political analysis, but we know the end of the story. As believers, we know that Jesus has said He will build His church, and the gates of Hell will not prevail against it."

The road ahead will be difficult for believers in the North, but the church has a history of extreme growth under fire. Pray for Christ-followers to stand firm in the North.

"Those Christians are bracing for an onslaught of new repression, but pray that they would be able to stand strong and continue to provide the light of Jesus Christ into their communities."

Sudan Enters A New Era

Sudan (MNN) ― Southern Sudan declared its independence on Saturday amidst celebration and relief.

(Photos courtesy of BBC Worldservice)

However, the fact is that land, oil and tribes just don't mix well, whatever the government promises. In the days preceding the secession, Lee DeYoung with Words of Hope says, "Ethnic clashes have been reported among Southern Sudanese in States of Warrap, Jonglei  and Lakes. In Lakes State, fighting has erupted between two different tribes of Dinkas: Dinka-Gok of Cueibet, and Dinka Agar of Rumbek."

Humanitarian needs arising from fighting and other violence remain dire in the transitional border regions. Tens of thousands have been displaced at the same time thousands are returning home from the North.

In a step toward making a new start and stopping the cycle of violence, communities have been encouraging peaceful reconciliation with the tribal youth. DeYoung says their broadcasting partners have been doing the same thing. "Our programs for the last year and a half have been striving to encourage peace and reconciliation among south Sudanese Christians. That has certainly been the consistent message of our denominational  partners on the ground there as well."

Dinka-language production had been based at the Lokichoggio Ministry Center at the Kenya-Sudan border, where Nuer-language production continues. Since most Christian Dinkas are Anglican, Words of Hope has a Dinka production team in consultation with Anglican partners in Uganda. Rumbek, a town in the heart of Dinka territory, has been chosen for the Dinka production base.

DeYoung says churches throughout the country have been holding daily prayer vigils since last week. With church leaders demonstrating such unity, it seems clear they're intent on leading by example."The overwhelming majority of southern Sudanese profess to be Christian. On the basis of our common brother and sisterhood in Christ, we've been seeking to encourage a sense that would counterbalance the ethnic rivalries."

The challenges facing this fledgling nation are huge. There are still border and trade issues to be settled as well as the division of the natural resources.Developing an infrastructure is another huge problem in a country that will be one of the poorest in the world. Conflict follows poverty, or in this case, it might just share the ride.

Still, DeYoung says optimism and hope are carried in the voices of their partners. The Gospel has made a huge difference in the areas they cover. Pray that they'll continue to be part of the peace solution. "While no one can be certain, our Sudanese colleagues are cautiously hopeful that the violence that has flared up recently might subside after independence becomes official and people are then fully governed by their own South Sudan administration."