'I've seen love': South Sudan bishop applauds Canadians during first visit

Bishop Joseph Manot from South Sudan in the CHVN studios on June 1, 2026. (Sylvia St. Cyr/PNN)

A South Sudanese bishop visiting Manitoba says local churches in his homeland are providing hope and practical support to communities facing poverty, food insecurity and the lingering effects of conflict.

"South Sudan has been at war for many years, but currently there is relative peace," says Right Reverend Joseph Manot. "Of course there are isolated cases, but generally the country is peaceful. 

Bishop Joseph oversees more than 95 parishes and 52 pastors in South Sudan, as well as leads humanitarian and community development initiatives. These include supporting families affected by conflict, displacement, food insecurity and poverty.

"Local churches are doing incredible work. One of the things that they do is, when people are displaced, they turn their local churches to be a place for accommodations. The church becomes the first place people can run to."

Canadians helping people in South Sudan

Tearfund Canada is a ministry that is helping people in deep poverty in South Sudan. 

"TearFund is doing critical work in South Sudan," says Manot. "They provide relief assistance. They also support local initiatives, like I am running an NGO. Also, gender-based violence, which is one of the critical projects in the community, and it's also being significantly supported by Tearfund."

On June 16, Canadians who give a donation toward helping people in South Sudan through these many projects will have their financial contribution quadrupled. 

First time to Canada

Bishop Manot had never been to Canada until a few weeks ago. He's been in Toronto, Calgary, and now Winnipeg before he returns to his home country, being hosted by Tearfund. 

"I love the country. The first thing that impressed me when I arrived was the airport. It was so beautiful. The people that I meet are so hospitable. They welcome me. I've seen love. Canada is one of the best countries I've ever been to."

As part of his time in Canada, Bishop Manot spoke in Blumenort on May 31, in Brandon on June 1, and he will be speaking this evening, June 2, at Morweena Evangelical Mennonite Church at 7:00 p.m. 

Source: https://www.chvnradio.com/articles/ive-seen-love-south-sudan-bishop-applauds-canadians-during-first-visit