Across South Sudan, missionaries continue to accompany communities even amid uncertainty and tension. Their presence is a quiet but powerful sign of solidarity, faith, and hope.

Sr. Agnes Lozano Marcelino, ICM, serves in Riimenze, Western Equatoria State, where daily life can be marked by fear and instability. Yet her commitment to remain with the people reflects the deep call that continues to guide many missionaries serving in South Sudan today.

Below, Sr. Agnes shares a personal reflection on why she continues her mission.

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Call to Mission
By Sr. Agnes Lozano Marcelino, ICM

In the silence of Riimenze, the night often carries the weight of uncertainty and the shadow of fear. As I close my eyes each night I can only whisper to God a short prayer: In You Lord, I entrust everything. As I open my eyes in the morning my lips murmur a prayer of gratitude: I am alive, a profound realization.

To remain in South Sudan amidst the threat of violence is a daily choice. One morning, while preparing for the flag ceremony in St. Dominic Savio Nursery School, we heard gunshots. We ran from the grounds into one classroom. I could only hold in my heart the image of our new teachers gathering the children, making sure that everyone was safe.

Fortunately, we were later told the gunshots came from youth testing their rifles. Still, it was deeply frightening.

In my silent moments I ask myself: why am I still in Riimenze?

I have only one answer: Call to Mission.

God has sent me through my ICM congregation to witness to God’s faithful love and mercy. If I remain here, it is because of faith. A faith that moves me to action, to trust, to embrace, and to let go even of fear so that God can use me to make His presence real for the people we serve.

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Friends in Solidarity asks you to keep Sr. Agnes and all missionaries serving in South Sudan in your prayers as they continue their work alongside local communities.

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