South Sudan’s Bentiu Catholic Diocese Calls for Investigation After Fire Damages Parish Altar

The Catholic Diocese of Bentiu has called on authorities to investigate a fire that damaged the altar at St. Michael Panriang Main Parish on Sunday, October 4. The diocese stated that unknown people set the church on fire, describing the incident as an act of desecration against a sacred place of worship.

The parish priest and parishioners acted quickly to stop the fire from spreading, saving the rest of the church building. No injuries were reported, though officials are still assessing the full extent of the damage.

The diocese requested prayers for the parish following the incident. Bishop Christian Carlassare, the first bishop of the diocese, has previously called for peace and reconciliation due to ongoing insecurity and violence in the region. Bentiu was established on July 3, 2024, after being separated from the Diocese of Malakal.