The shining stone carvings and the stained glass windows catch the attention of tourists at their first encounter with Wau Cathedral. It is the largest religious center in South Sudan.
It was built in 1913 by Christian missionaries under the leadership of Father Antonio Stoppani, who headed the church for four years. He was the first bishop. The cathedral has not only been a symbol of development but also a religious center up to this day.
This large brick church is located in the Greater Bahr El-Ghazal region. It grew after ten Comboni missionaries left Khartoum for the remote settlement of Wau, where the British had set up camps in the early 19th century.
Currently, Bishop Rudolf Deng Majak leads Wau Cathedral. He describes it as the cradle of Christianity in the region.
The establishment of Wau Cathedral is seen as a sign of civilization. For over four decades, it brought many benefits to the area, such as education. Catholic schools were built in South Sudan, producing skilled workers like electricians and plumbers.
However, things changed when General Ibrahim Abboud came into power. He nationalized Catholic and other Christian faith-based schools to promote Islam in South Sudan.
Catholicism later revived after the signing of the peace agreement. Today, sixteen schools operate in and outside Western Bahr El-Ghazal. These include new institutions, such as the Faculty of Agriculture at the city’s Catholic university.
The church also helps the people of South Sudan by providing medical services through St. Joseph’s Clinic and Jebel Kheir Health Clinic. In addition, it has an Office of Peace and Justice, which played a big role in South Sudan’s referendum.
A lack of funds is making it difficult to renovate schools and some buildings in South Sudan. However, this does not stop progress. The church is planning to open an FM radio station for religious and educational purposes and to create awareness.
Note: The Diocese of Wau is a Latin Church in South Sudan. It depends on the Missionary Roman Congregation for the Evangelization of People.
Other Catholic churches include:
- One Latin hierarchy
- Three Eastern Catholic transnational jurisdictions
Wau Cathedral is a holy place for South Sudanese. Tourists should visit for spiritual refreshment and historical knowledge.
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