The official results of the referendum in Southern Sudan have been announced. The results are an overwhelming – nearly 99% in favor of secession and the creation of a new country.
The referendum is recognized as having been successful and generally peaceful by the international community including the U.N. Secretary-General’s Panel on the Referenda in the Sudan and the Carter Center. Thanks to all who prayed and fasted and worked to make this happen. Thanks to the people of Sudan for their “wisdom, patience, and peaceful determination.”
Now the hard work begins. The people of Sudan continue to stand in need of prayer with particular concerns for the transition which is scheduled to take place between now and July 9; for the border regions of Abyei, Blue Nile, and South Kordofan; for Darfur; for southerners living in Sudan; for northerners living in South Sudan; and for decisions concerning the oil and water resources of the country.
Please continue to pray. pray wherever you are; pray individually or gather with your community or an ecumenical community or an interfaith community; pray in a manner you feel comfortable praying.