Reverend clergy and attendees gathered at the Presbyterian Evangelical Church General Assembly to hear remarks from Ambassador Adler on March 6, 2025. The event coincided with the Christian season of Lent and the Muslim month of Ramadan, a period dedicated to prayer, repentance, and reconciliation worldwide.
Ambassador Adler emphasized the significance of faith and churches in South Sudanese society, drawing parallels with their role in the United States. He highlighted the importance of peace and reconciliation as a topic for discussion during this time.
Reflecting on his age, Ambassador Adler noted that if he were South Sudanese, his life would have spanned four civil wars. "My deepest wish for your country is that the South Sudanese people have peace," he stated.
The ambassador expressed concern over recent violence in Upper Nile, urging leaders from all communities to work towards peace. He stressed that every South Sudanese citizen should prioritize peace beyond personal or communal interests. "Each human life is sacred," he said, regardless of wealth, status, or background.
He called for an end to violence as a means of political competition and encouraged urgent efforts toward peace. The ambassador pointed out that U.S. support for South Sudan stems from American civil society's desire to end suffering and restore peace in what was then southern Sudan.
Highlighting the role of private U.S. citizens working through religious institutions, Ambassador Adler urged participants to use their influence for peaceful resolutions. He concluded by wishing success in their efforts towards peace and reconciliation across all communities in South Sudan.
"May South Sudan have peace," he concluded. "May God bless you all."