Malakal, South Sudan. From 10 to 22 September 2026, Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, CMF, Superior General of the Claretian Missionaries, visits the Claretian mission in South Sudan for the first time. Fr. J.M. Joseph Jeyaseelan, CMF, Major Superior of the St. Joseph Vaz Independent Delegation of Sri Lanka–South Sudan, accompanies him. The visit strengthens communion, encouragement, and missionary solidarity with the Claretians who serve in this young mission.
The Claretian presence in South Sudan begins on 8 June 2024, the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and reflects the Congregation’s dream of going to the peripheries (QC 43). South Sudan is the world’s youngest country, independent since 2011.
The mission is located in the Diocese of Malakal, Upper Nile State, in the northern region of the country. The St. Joseph Vaz Independent Delegation of Sri Lanka–South Sudan takes responsibility for the mission and responds to the pastoral and missionary needs of the local communities.
During the visit, Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, CMF, meets the missionaries and the people they serve. He listens to their experiences and strengthens the bonds of communion between the mission and the wider Congregation. Together with Fr. J.M. Joseph Jeyaseelan, CMF, he encourages the missionaries in their service to the people of South Sudan.
The Claretian presence in South Sudan expresses the Congregation’s commitment to reaching the peripheries and accompanying vulnerable communities. Rooted in the Claretian charism, the mission brings the message of the Gospel through service, fraternity, closeness, and hope.
