Sudan violence claims life of Father Luke Jumu in Darfur; Pope prays and urges international action amid growing humanitarian crisis.
Newsroom, June 17, 2025, Gaudium Press – In the early hours of last Friday, 13th, Father Luke Jumu, parish priest of El Fasher, was killed in an attack by paramilitary militias of the Rapid Support Forces targeting the Khartoum army in North Darfur, Sudan. Since April 15, 2023, this African nation has been the scene of a bloody conflict, and its inhabitants endure constant violence and insecurity.
Diocese of El Obeid confirms the priest’s death
The Diocese of El Obeid confirmed Father Luke Jumu’s death in a statement, noting that “the cause of death was a stray bullet that took his life along with two young men.” The message, signed by Father Abdallah Hussein, vicar general of El Obeid, concluded by asking the faithful to pray for the souls of the deceased.
The Pontifical Foundation Aid to the Church in Need stated that, since earlier this year, it had been trying to evacuate Father Jumu, but it was impossible for him to leave the city, which is entirely controlled by the guerrillas. The paramilitary militia even blocked access to the city, despite calls from the United Nations to allow humanitarian aid to enter.
Pope Leo XIV prayed for Father Luke Jumu
During last Sunday’s Angelus, Pope Leo XIV prayed for Father Luke Jumu and all victims of the conflict, urging the international community to intensify efforts to end the fighting, provide necessary protection and assistance to the population, and initiate peace negotiations.
“I received the sad news of the death of Father Luke Jumu, parish priest of El Fasher, victim of shelling. While assuring my prayers for him and all victims, I renew my appeal to the combatants to stop, protect civilians and engage in dialogue for peace. I exhort the international community to intensify efforts to provide at least essential assistance to the population, gravely affected by the severe humanitarian crisis. Let us continue to pray for peace in the Middle East, Ukraine and worldwide,” stated the Pontiff. (EPC)
Compiled by Adele Wong.
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