South Sudan has been struggling with political instability, violence, and economic turmoil. The country gained independence from Sudan in 2011, but soon after plunged into a civil war, leading to widespread displacement and humanitarian suffering. On April 9, 2024, it was reported by Radio Tamazuj that a Seventh-day Adventist pastor had been kidnapped by armed men on his way to perform some baptisms.
The news story stated:
• “The authorities of the Seventh-day Adventist Church report that one of their pastors was kidnapped by armed men last Friday between Kuajok and Luony-Aker town in Gogrial East County of Warrap State. According to church officials, Pastor Daniel Garang Marach Yel, also known as Daniel Marach, was abducted by armed men while en route to Luony-Aker to conduct a baptism on the Sabbath last week.” [1]
• “Pastor William Kabi, president of the Bahr El Ghazal Seventh-day Adventist churches, told Radio Tamazuj that Pastor Daniel’s abduction seemed to have taken place in Warrap State, as he had prayed for it beforehand. “Pastor Daniel Garang was expected to be in Kuajok. On Friday, he texted me via SMS, saying, ‘Pastor William, please pray for me because I am embarking on a journey to Luony Aker town, Gogrial East County.’ Later, he called me and informed me that he was being held captive. When I asked him who had arrested him and where he was, he said he didn’t know. He mentioned being in a forest but did not specify which one,” Pastor Kabi explained.” [1]
When faithful pastors are kidnapped by armed men, these types of abductions not only rob families and congregations of spiritual leaders but also instill fear among the community. Tragically, the lack of effective law enforcement and the presence of armed gangs exacerbate the situation, making it easier for perpetrators to carry out these crimes with impunity. In times like these, when darkness seems to overshadow the light, we can always turn to the power of prayer for strength and divine intervention.
“Those whom God employs as His messengers are not to feel that His work is dependent on them. Finite beings are not left to carry this burden of responsibility. He who slumbers not, who is continually at work for the accomplishment of His designs, will carry forward His work. He will thwart the purposes of wicked men and will bring to confusion the counsels of those who plot mischief against His people. He who is the King, the Lord of hosts, sitteth between the cherubim, and amidst the strife and tumult of nations He guards His children still. When the strongholds of kings shall be overthrown, when the arrows of wrath shall strike through the hearts of His enemies, His people will be safe in His hands” (Prophets and Kings, p. 176).
Sources
[1] https://radiotamazuj.org/en/news/article/adventist-church-pastor-kidnapped-in-warrap
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I pray that the pastor is OK, and is united with his family again. And that the men who did that to him will be converted.
We have to pray for all our pastors.
A M E N
This is sad….and look at those guns… the world governments can’t stop the black market for these? My guess, as someone who was in the military in the 80’s, is that those are Russian or eastern made. Could be wrong—-it’s been a while. MOST of these African warloads/gangs are being armed by the black market. The only answer on this as to why this is happening on this scale is CORRUPTION in world governments.
I pray that the Pastor stands like Daniel, Hananiah, Azariah, and Mishael. Stand. Trust in the Lord with all his heart. We must also do the same. We are all going to be tested. Prayer is our best weapon.