Mourners gathered on Monday at All Saints Cathedral in Juba for a solemn requiem Mass honoring the life and legacy of the late Emeritus Bishop Nathaniel Garang Anyieth.
Speaking at the event, Michael J. Adler, U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan, highlighted the late bishop’s international connections and enduring influence.
“The late Bishop had many friends in the United States. I
have heard about his dedication to unity and peace, and it is my view that the
best way for all of us to honor the late Bishop's memory is to work in support
of unity of the people of South Sudan,” Adler said on Monday.
Michael Makuei Lueth, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, called on citizens to carry forward the bishop’s vision.
“He wished South Sudan could be united before his death.
This was his dream. Since, he has gone it is our duty to ensure that we unite
our people,” Makuei emphasized.
“He died with the people of South Sudan and with South Sudan
in heart.”
Prof. James Wani Igga, Vice President for the Economic
Cluster, reflected on a shared history during the liberation struggle.
“Nathaniel was not only a gentleman, but he was a great
clergy and a nationalist,” Wani stated, describing the late bishop as a close
friend and steadfast companion during difficult times.
President Salva Kiir also bid farewell to the late bishop, joining
the nation in mourning a figure widely regarded as a moral compass and unifying
voice.
Bishop Nathaniel Garang Anyieth, the first Anglican Bishop
of Bor, passed away at the age of 86 on February 24, 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya.
Consecrated in 1984, he served as the pioneer diocesan
bishop of Bor and was deeply respected for his humility, spiritual leadership,
and lifelong dedication to his people.