Retired South Sudanese Episcopal Church Bishop dies in Nairobi

JUBA – The Province of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan has announced the death of retired Bishop Nathaniel Garang, who passed away on Tuesday morning in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi.

In a statement issued on February 24, 2026, from the Office of the Archbishop and Primate, the church said the senior cleric died earlier that day. The cause of death was not disclosed.

“With a heavy heart, the Province of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan announces the passing of Bishop Nathaniel Garang, which occurred this morning, the 24th of February, in Nairobi, Kenya,” the statement read.

Bishop Garang was consecrated in 1984 and became the first Diocesan Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Bor, a position that placed him at the forefront of the church’s growth in the region. His elevation to the episcopate marked a significant milestone for the diocese and the wider Episcopal community in South Sudan.

The church described him as a dedicated servant who led with “courage, humility, and a pastoral heart.” Over the years, he was known not only as a church leader but also as a source of spiritual encouragement to communities affected by war and displacement.

During Sudan’s long civil war and South Sudan’s liberation struggle, Bishop Garang is remembered for offering hope and spiritual guidance to the faithful. His ministry spanned some of the most challenging chapters in the country’s history, as he worked to strengthen the church’s presence and support vulnerable communities.

As the first diocesan bishop of Bor, he played a central role in establishing church structures, mentoring clergy, and expanding pastoral outreach. Many congregants have credited him with helping to nurture faith and resilience during periods of uncertainty and conflict.

The Episcopal Church has called for prayers for the late bishop’s immediate family and for the ongoing arrangements to repatriate his remains to South Sudan for burial.

“We request prayers for his immediate family and for the arrangements to bring his remains back home to South Sudan,” the statement said, concluding with a prayer that his soul may “rest in peace and rise in glory.”

Further details regarding funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.