“How much the Sudanese people suffer, innocent victims of this inhuman tragedy!”
–Pope Leo XIV
Sudan
This week, April 17–24, we join people of faith around the world in observing the World Week of Prayer for Peace in Sudan, an invitation from Pax Christi International to stand in prayerful solidarity with a people enduring profound suffering.
In a world too often marked by violence and division, this moment calls us to remember that prayer is not passive. It is a powerful act of love, connection and hope.
Sudan is facing one of the most severe humanitarian crises in the world today. Ongoing conflict has devastated communities, destroying homes, hospitals and schools, while civilians remain caught in relentless violence.
Millions have been displaced and widespread hunger threatens entire regions. Women and children bear the heaviest burden, often forced to flee with little access to safety, food or medical care.
In the words of Pope Francis, “Peace requires patient work … day after day.” This reminder calls us to remain faithful in the ongoing work of peacebuilding, even when the path forward feels uncertain. What can we do?
- Participate in the World Week of Prayer: Use the resources from Pax Christi to pray individually or gather with others in solidarity for Sudan.
- Contact your members of Congress: Urge increased humanitarian aid, support for ceasefire efforts, and sustained diplomatic engagement.
- Support humanitarian organizations: Consider donating to groups such as Catholic Relief Services or Amnesty International which provide life-saving assistance in crisis zones.
Did you know?
Sudan is home to more pyramids than Egypt, many of them rising quietly along the banks of the Nile River at sites like Meroë.
Most are located in the ancient region of Nubia and were built by the rulers of the Kingdom of Kush between about 700 BCE and 300 CE.
While the country is often seen only through the lens of conflict, it holds a rich cultural and historical legacy.
Today, many of these sacred sites lie in regions impacted by instability, reminding us that war threatens not only lives, but the identity and heritage of a people.