It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Bishop Paride Taban, a cherished friend of Pax Christi International and a prominent participant in our Catholic Nonviolence Initiative activities.
As the first Catholic Bishop of Torit Diocese in South Sudan, Bishop Taban dedicated his life to promoting peace and reconciliation in a region marked by conflict and turmoil. He was also the first leader of the New Sudan Council of Churches (NSCC).
Bishop Taban retired from the administration of Torit Diocese in 2004, but his remarkable journey led him to found South Sudan’s Holy Trinity Peace Village Kuron, a community that welcomes people from diverse ethnic backgrounds who have experienced conflict. This village became a symbol of hope and healing, a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity. South Sudan’s Holy Trinity Peace Village Kuron is also a member of Pax Christi International.
A bridge-builder, Bishop Paride Taban tirelessly advocated for dialogue, unity, and understanding, leaving an indelible mark on South Sudan and the world. His life’s journey was marked by a steadfast commitment to peace, and he leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire us all to work for a world where peace and unity prevail.
Bishop Marc Stenger, Co-President of Pax Christi International, expressed his condolences in a heartfelt message, which we echo by extending our deepest sympathies to Bishop Taban’s loved ones.
Dear sisters and brothers,
We learned with sadness of the death of Bishop Paride Taban, ex-auxiliary of Juba, and Bishop Emeritus of Torit, who God called back on all’ Saints Day, he who always carried out his mission in the spirit of the Beatitudes.
Pax Christi International is very close to and remains very concerned by the efforts of the Church of South Sudan for peace and reconciliation and in particular of Bishop Taban, who was an exemplary builder of peace and a tireless sower of hope, a great pioneer in a troubled era in his country. We honour his actions such as the creation of the peace village of Kuran and the mediation efforts that he carried out at the head of the New Sudan Council of Churches. His actions were full of the evangelical spirit of Jesus, in which the Catholic Nonviolence Initiative is well recognized.
This good shepherd will continue to watch over his people and the world which needs peace and the nonviolent practices he sought to promote.
Dear Brother Paride, rest in peace and pray for us.
+ Marc STENGER, Bishop Emeritus of Troyes (F), Co-President of Pax Christi International
(Photo credit CNS/Bob Roller)
