The establishment of the South Sudan Union Mission (SSUM) at the Juba SDA Central Church in South Sudan is a momentous occasion for the East-Central Africa Division (ECD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, showcasing its unwavering commitment to advancing its mission in the region. This historic event, held on May 25 – 26, 2024, saw leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church from across the region, congregating at SSUM for the first time in history.
During the inauguration, ECD President Blasious Ruguri praised the dedication and collaboration of SSUM leaders and members. He highlighted the remarkable journey of transitioning from an attached territory to a union mission within just eight years, a testament to their steadfast commitment.
Ruguri emphasized the importance of establishing new unions, recognizing their pivotal role in publicly affirming everyone’s responsibility in God’s mission. He commended the hard work of South Sudan’s leaders, which resulted in SSUM’s elevation to union mission status.
Looking forward, Ruguri urged leaders to focus on future plans for gospel outreach, particularly highlighting the ECD Evangelism Impact 2025 (EEI 2025) initiative. He expressed optimism about exploring innovative methods of mission work and announced the upcoming visit of Pastor Ted Wilson, the president of the worldwide Adventist Church, who will serve as a preacher during the Homecoming Event in July 2024, a significant part of EEI 2025.
ECD Executive Secretary Pastor Musa Mitekaro affirmed that the establishment of SSUM is a crucial step forward in implementing the Church’s mission statement and the strategic plan of ECD.
A notable highlight of the inauguration was the ordination of 11 pastors as gospel ministers.
Originally organized in 2015 and reorganized in 2020 and 2023, SSUM covers the Eastern Upper Nile, Greater Bahr el Ghazal, Greater Equatoria, and North-Central Nile Fields. As of June 30, 2023, it comprised 122 churches, with a membership of 72,950, serving a population of 11,089,000.
The leadership of SSUM includes President Clement Joseph Arkangelo Mawa, Secretary Daniel Ogwok Ojwan, and Treasurer Dani Harelimana.
