all smiles at toxic legacy the synod 2019 telephone (011 [email protected] themba nkomo...
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[email protected] 2019 Volume 34 No 7 1
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Telephone (011) 402 6400 • www.catholicjhb.org.za OCTOBER 2019
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Against the backdrop of the last Synod in 2008, clergy, religious and laity analysed
the strengths, weaknesses, oppor-tunities and threats of the local Church. This took place on 20 and 21 September at the Cathedral.
Each parish was represented by the parish priest, parish pastoral council chairperson, parish youth
forum chairperson and Synod champion.
After welcome remarks from the chairperson of the Synod steering committee, Roy Lailvaux, Arch-bishop Buti Tlhagale OMI opened with a prayer for the Archdiocese.
He was followed by Vicar for Evangelisation, Fr Bruce Botha SJ who outlined proceedings.
After the plenary, people split into 17 groups for breakaway sessions. They delved into three themes: Renewal, Youth and Marriage and Family Life with the fourth theme, Missionary Discipleship reserved for the second day. Both Archbishop Buti and Bishop Duncan Tsoke spent time with the groups.
On the second day, participants were given a summary of issues discussed during the plenary. They agreed that what was presented resonated with their deliberations.
Fr Bruce thanked participants for their performance and enthusiasm. He concluded by saying the real work starts now – champions need to return to their parishes to ensure that resolutions are implemented.
In his comments, Archbishop Buti said the following:- Although the recommendations
were commendable, there were instances whereby suggesting names of people to provide training, would have helped
- He exhorted parishes to be resourceful. The Pope, he said, releases an encyclical almost every year. There is a post-synodal exhortation of papers from the congregations in Rome. He recom-mended the encyclicals by Pope
Participants, including Fr Andrew Knott from Blessed Sacrament, Malvern (left) and Fr Tony Daniels from St Charles, Victory Park (right) enjoyed proceedings.
... all smiles at the Synod 2019
... all smiles at the Synod 2019
Through the Synod, the church aims to be a better servant
Through the Synod, the church aims to be a better servant
Francis Amoris Laetitia and Christus Vivit and Cardinal Walter Kasper’s the Gospel of the Family.
- He wished that the Church not only be sacramental but also steeped in the Word of God, he encouraged parishioners to read the Bible and to prepare for Mass by going through the readings.
- A success of the first Synod is an active Youth Office and that most parishes have a youth parish forum.
- Develop a culture of young people coming together so they can minister to themselves and others. The Archdiocese will look at supporting efforts done by youth ministries.
- Parish councils should have a refugee and migrants desk as conflict happens at community level and diversity training is important to curb xenophobia.
- Every parish should set time aside for Eucharistic adoration.
- A Marriage and Family Life desk will be set up on condition that the panel of experts that prepared for the Synod will serve as an advisory council that will develop a constitution, role, functions; and
- Recommendations of the Synod will be given to the Archdiocesan
Pastoral Council who will hand them to parish pastoral councils.Archbishop Buti expressed his
gratitude saying participants had done an excellent job of expressing the feelings and wishes of the masses.
He announced that the next Synod would be in five years’ time.
The Synod culminated with the celebration of Mass led by Arch-bishop Buti with a host of priests concelebrating, assisted by deacons. With the last theme having been Missionary Discipleship, the conclusion also served to inaugurate the Extraordinary Month of Mission called for by Pope Francis.
In his reflection, Archbishop Buti gave instances of Jesus and characters in the Bible whereby they retreated to be by themselves to encounter God or to feel His presence.
He said the purpose of coming away from our usual actions was precisely to act as these many joints that will strengthen the body so that it grows and becomes a better servant of God, a better servant of the members of the body of Christ.
See page 7 for more details on Extraordinary Mission Month
Lerato Mohone
Synod and Extraordinary Mission Month inauguration
Above: Archbishop Buti Tlhagale OMI during the entrance procession.
Left: Bishop Duncan Tsoke and Fr Paul Beukes OMI share a light moment.
Khosi Mthembu president of the Immaculate Conception Sodality makes notes.
Pics by Sheldon Reddiar
Pic: Sheldon Reddiar
Below: Synod steering committee Roy Lailvox, Sr Juliana Abioye, Emily Morley, Odilon Molapo, and vicar for Evangelisa-tion, Fr Bruce Botha SJ.
7
[email protected] October 2019Volume 34 No 72
ORDER OF CARMELITES DISCALCED SECULAR
(OCDS)
Marfamis looking for an editorial assistant with web-based
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for information
Pope’s Intentions: OctoberEvangelization: That the breath of the Holy Spirit engender a new missionary “spring” in the church.
CONFIRMATIONS IN OCTOBER
‘Could you not spend one hour with me?’
Holy Hour 15:00 -16:00
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COMMUNITY NOTICES
Did you know Paddy Kearney?
Raymond Perrier, Director of the Denis Hurley Centre, is doing a doctorate on Gerald Patrick ‘Paddy’ Kearney founder of the Denis Hurley Centre and Chairman of its Board of Trustees at the time of his death in November last year. Raymond appeals for any letters or document written by Paddy. He would also welcome stories and/or photographs of him.
E-mail Raymond Perrier at [email protected]
The Church as Sacrament by Fr Mareko Maciniack SVD
St Joseph the Worker, Boipatong
Saturday, 5 October
St Michael’s, Meadowlands
South West DeanerySaturday, 12 October
Echoing the Word
PATRONAL FEASTS: OCTOBER1st St Therese, Alberton (1948); Edenvale (1938); Zondi 2nd Holy Angels, Bez Valley (1914)4th St Francis of Assisi, Reiger Park (1965); Rustervaal (1968); Vanderbijlpark
(1960); Yeoville (1913);7th Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, Phiri (1969)16th St Margaret, Diepkloof (1964)19th St Paul of the Cross, Bekkersdal (1975)22nd St John Paul II, Linmeyer (2012)
Bat Kol Scripture group meets every third Saturday
12:00-4:00pm at Holy Family College, 40 Oxford Road,
entrance 3rd Avenue Parktown. 2019 Study programme
Deutero-Isaiah – the prophet of the Babylonian exile.
Contact Sr Marie Andre SND 072 250 4944 for details.
Dear beautiful people of GodThe parish of Orange Farm appeals to you
to help its fundraising project by donating non-perishable food items, used appliances, furniture and clothes.
Help the parish move towards being self-reliant.All donations most welcome.
A better parish maketh a better archdiocese.It begins with YOU!
Contact Fr Kgomotso 066 433 2482
Fri 4th 18:00 Our Lady of Sorrows Kensington SouthSun 6th 08:30 St Francis de Sales LawleySun 6th 09:30 Immaculate Conception DiepkloofSat 12th 17:30 Our Lady of Lourdes RivoniaSun 13th 09:30 Cathedral HillbrowSun 13th 10:30 St Thomas LenasiaFri 18th 18:00 St Charles Victory ParkSat 19th 17:30 St Patrick’s BenoniSun 20th 07:30 St Francis of Assisi VanderbijlparkSun 20th 07:30 St Nicholas DaveytonSun 20th 10:00 Divine Mercy WalkervilleFri 25th 18:30 Our Lady of Cedars WoodmeadSat 26th 18:00 Immaculate Conception RosebankSat 26th 18:00 St John Paul II LinmeyerSun 27th 10:30 St Anthony Evaton WestSun 27th 10:00 Holy Angels Bez Valley
Extraordinary Month of Mission Celebration
Saturday, 19 October
Mass at 09h00 Procession begins at 08h00 St Dominic’s School for Girls
Boksburg
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Do you want to be ‘LOVE’ in the centre of the World –
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Lolo Nkamankeng, a Mrs Africa 2020 top ten continental fi-nalist from St Francis of Assisi,
Yeoville and who has the endorse-ment of Archbishop Buti Tlhagale, appeals for votes to move further in the competition.
Mrs Africa 2020 finalist appeals for votes
As founder of MN Foundation and Africa Child Rise organisation, most of her projects seek to edu-cate and empower people.
Lolo is active in assisting people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“I aim to use the platform to do more charity work with the organ-isations I have already established. This includes reaching out to the less-privileged, especially children, youth and women,” said Lolo, who is also a member of the St Vincent de Paul society. “This pageant is in line with one of my passions, the sacrament of marriage which I also advise on and advocate for.”
To vote SMS Mrs03 to 47018 SMS cost R2 you can vote as many times as you want. Voting ends 1 November.
South Africa’s only Catholic radio station, Radio Veritas, celebrates
its 20th anniversary this month.Under the guidance and perserver-ance of Fr Emil Blaser, the station continues to broadcast under difficult financial circumstances.
Fr Emil has recorded the history of Radio Veritas, how it was started and its journey towards the 20th year celebrations.
Radio Veritas turns 20
Read Fr Emil’s full report on www.catholicjhb.org.za
A stance on gender-based violence and xenophobia
Women from St Margaret/ Immacu-late Conception, Diepkloof wore orange doeks in support of victims of gender-based violence. They are Belinda Saohatse, Matsela Ncala, Kinini Leboa, Mpho Kekana. Fikile Mlotshwa, centre joined them.
As the country bleeds due to the scourge of xenophobia
and gender-based violence, the faithful gathered to present these to Christ who is our peace. This took place at St Margaret, Diep-kloof on Sunday, 8 September.
In a service led by Fr Lawrence Ndlovu, Fr Michael Seheri, Fr Teboho Matseke and parish priest, Fr Bafana Ndlovu OMI, prayers were interspersed with talks that sought to empower people to play an active role in combating these barbaric acts.
[email protected] 2019 Volume 34 No 7 3
Father Thomas Plastow S.J. Answers Liturgy Questions
Mourning, Preparing or Rejoicing?
We need more questions about the Liturgy!
You are welcome to send questions directly to Fr Plastow:
• PO Box 46876 Glosderry, 7702
• e-mail [email protected]
• fax 011 402-6406
after Midnight Mass on the birth-day of Jesus.
What the purple of Advent is all about, however, is our preparation and readiness for the Second Coming of Christ. The liturgical prayers and readings, at least up until the 16 December, are about the coming of the Messiah in his glory, and the passing away of this world. Once again, purple is not for mourning, but for preparation. Are we ready for Him?! This crucial period to prepare for the End Times gets lost under all our tinsel, and end of school nativity plays!
The Colour for Funerals
There is a choice of colours for Catholic funerals: purple, black and white. Let’s look at each in turn. When purple/violet is used for a funeral, it is not supposed to remind us of Lent or of the Passion of Christ. Purple at funer-als is an Advent purple: a sign to make us prepare for the End Times, a reminder that this world is not our final home, but that we are all called to the next life. Are we ready for the Second Coming? Are we prepared to meet Christ and face judgement?
Black vestments were used for Masses of the Dead before the Second Vatican Council. Here, the colour was definitely one of mourning, and of praying for the souls in purgatory who were still hoping for heaven. Black remains an option for All Souls Day (in place of purple) and it may be used for funerals. However, para-graph 39 of the English edition of The Order of Christian Funerals says our funerals should express hope in the light of the paschal mystery, and warns that the use of black may not serve this purpose. White is therefore used at many Catholic funerals to show our belief in the resurrection, and our hope that the departed loved one is with the Lord.
In short, therefore, purple is the colour of preparation and penance, and black is the colour of mourn-ing. But Christian liturgy does not allow for deep mourning, choosing rather to proclaim the resurrection of the dead and to point to the great hope we have through being brothers and sisters of Christ and children of the One, loving and merciful God.
It is just over a year since I wrote about the various liturgi-cal colours and their meanings,
but this topic continues to raise questions. Last month a reader asked the following:
Recently we South Africans have been called upon to wear black on occasions where people are pro-testing against moral degenera-tion. We are said to be in mourn-ing for public morality. Please may I ask which colour is for mourning: black or purple? I ask this because during the Lenten season and on Good Friday, Catholics use the colour purple as a symbol of mourning the passion and death of Christ.
Thank you for this question. It shows that what the Church intends to show forth is not always what people perceive. Your ques-tion also allows us to focus in on the meaning of the colour purple or “violet”.
The Colour for Lent
You are quite correct in saying that purple/violet is used during Lent. From Ash Wednesday until the Wednesday of Holy Week, purple is the colour we see most often. It is not used on Palm Sunday or Good Friday, however, because we use red on these days when the Gospel reading is about the suffer-ing and death of Christ. Just like on the feasts of martyrs, red is used as the colour of blood.
Purple, however, is not a colour for mourning. In the Middle Ages (800 to 1200 years ago), the peo-ple of Rome considered violet a sign of melancholy and affliction. The Church was not mourning the death of Christ through the 40 days of Lent, but was walking the road to Jerusalem with him, know-ing that the journey would end with the sadness of Calvary. This Lenten journey was, for the people of the Middle Ages, a time of pen-ance and mortification: a time to suffer with Christ and to overcome our weakness and frailty. The emphasis is on compassion and penance, not death and mourning. I think local Catholics don’t always see this because almost all our vernacular Lenten hymns are about the Passion of Christ. Our Lent is in danger of becoming a 40-day funeral wake!
The Colour for Advent
Purple/violet is also the colour worn in Advent, a time of prepara-tion for the coming of Christ. We don’t always understand this season, tending to think of it as a “little Lent”. Just as we fast before celebrating Easter, so we some-times think we are supposed to hold off enjoying ourselves and may enjoy Christmas treats only
Caritas representatives and coordinators met from 26 to 28 August at Lumko Institute,
Benoni for Caritas South Africa’s Second Assembly. The three-day conference saw the participation of Caritas SA President, His Eminence Cardinal Wilfrid Napier OFM, Caritas Internationalis (CI) Secretary General Aloysius, John and Head of Caritas Internationalis Institutional Development and Capacity Strengthening Department, Moira Monacelli.
Also present was the new Bishop of Gaborone and President of Cari-tas Botswana, His Lordship Franck Nubuasah SVD, Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) Secretary General, Sr Her-menegild Makoro CPS, SACBC Asso-ciate Secretary General Fr Patrick Rakeketsi, Caritas SA National Coordinator, Sr Maria de Lurdes Lodi Rissini and Director of SACBC Parlia-mentary Liaison Office, Fr Peter John Pearson and 23 dioceses.
Cardinal Napier presented the Constitution for Caritas South Africa, a document approved and accepted by the SACBC at the August 2019 Plenary Session. Cardinal Napier highlighted Caritas KwaZulu-Natal, that is, Caritas at metropolitan level – unique to South Africa – whose aim and purpose is to be a vital link coordinating all diocesan Caritas projects and those responsible for them. The Cardinal also spoke of Caritas Emergency Relief Pro-gramme, which challenged the Caritas SA in responding to the devastation caused by Cyclone Idai in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi.
Over 600 catechists attended the annual Formation and
Creativity Day on Saturday, 24 Aug-ust at the Cathedral. The day began with Mass led by Fr Patrick Dladla OMI, vicar for catechesis Fr Boniface D’Souza OCD, Fr Gordon Rees mccj and Fr Mareko Marciniak SVD.
The theme was “My Church, My Responsibility” with sub-themes “Knowing, accepting and practicing your faith” and “Catechists as Missionary Disciples”, the latter inspired by Pope Francis’ call that we celebrate Extraordinary Mission Month in October.
The keynote speaker was Fr Pat-rick who presented a talk on the “Precepts of the Church” which he
Aloysius John and Moira Monacelli encouraged Caritas SA to define its identity, its organi-sation and to how it will work within the society of the SACBC region to serve the poor and defend their cause.
Moira looked at Caritas Africa and Caritas Internationalis’ strategic frameworks, and Caritas at parish level. Fr Peter John Pearson gave a presentation on how Caritas can be represented within the South African government.
Coordinators and representatives from South Africa and Botswana were also given a platform to share work experiences over the past year. Although Caritas SA is fairly new, it has achieved a lot in the areas of agriculture, palliative care for HIV/Aids and tuberculosis patients – especially in poor areas, feeding the hungry through feeding schemes,
and helping children get access to education.
One of the main challenges is funding, with a frail economy and high levels of unemployment. Caritas SA struggles in terms of monetary funds to carry its day-to-day duties such as transport and workers’ remuneration.
The assembly ended with the adoption of the six strategic orienta-tions, namely: Building and struc-turing Caritas SA as the National Caritas; saving peoples’ lives and assets through effective disaster response and risk management; promoting integral human develop-ment; building effective communi-cation, advocacy mechanisms; networking to better coordinate all the social action; and to enhance resource mobilisation
Sheila Pires
Second Annual Assembly – Strengthening Caritas SA
Cardinal Wilfrid Napier during his address.
Above: Women attendees of the assembly.
Below: Attendees during the session.
The annual formation and creativity for catechists
Above: Fr Mareko Marciniak presented his session to catechists.
Left: Catechists and Fr Patrick Dladla OMI during the prayers of the faithful.
listed as follows: - You shall attend Mass on Sundays
and on holy days of obligation and rest from servile work;
- Confess your sins at least once a year ;
- Receive the sacrament of the Eucharist at least during the Easter season;
- Observe the days of fasting and abstinence established by the Church, and;
- Help provide for the needs of the Church.Fr Gordon Rees MCCJ said a
missionary disciple is both a disciple and a missionary. That means being a follower of Jesus Christ and being a person who goes into the world on
a mission. He encouraged people to search for their mission because God has definitely done wondrous deeds in their lives and they need to tell people about it.
In his talk about faith, Fr Mareko Marciniak SVD said catechists need ongoing formation. They need to know, accept and practise their faith. He exhorted them to adopt an atti-tude of reading, asking and facing difficult questions.
Catechists had the opportunity to attend creativity sessions which were presented by Andrea Naidoo from the Lifeteen, Special Religious Development team, Good Shepherd catechesis team and Sandra Beukes who presented on First Holy Communion.
Veronica Mofokeng
[email protected] October 2019Volume 34 No 74
Good Shepherd, Protea North, celebrated Bible Sunday on
25 August. One Sunday a year, on Bible
Sunday, Catholics are encouraged and reminded to read and reflect on the Bible, the treasure of the Church’s teachings and a major source of inspiration and comfort for all who believe.
The young ones carried Bibles to the altar, offering them to Dea-
Celebrating Bible Sundaycon Kgaogelo Ntsie. They repre-sented the five teachings of the Bible:
“I am the light; I will show you the way”
“I am the fruit you need”“I will carry you in hard times”“I am the New Testament; I am
the way to the Father” and“I am the Old Testament; I will
teach you about your ancestors” Portia Mmethi The 2019-2020 school year
marks the centenary anni-versary of Immaculata High
School and Lourdes Primary School. To kickstart a series of celebrations of these schools, a Mass was held on the Feast of St Bartholomew the Apostle at Regina Mundi, Moroka. It was led by former pupil, Fr Rampe Hlobo SJ who was assisted by school chaplain, Fr Bafana Ndlovu OMI, Fr Lingoane Tlaile SDB and Fr John-son Ugwu MSP.
In her welcome remarks, Imma-culata High principal, Dr Mma- gauta Matilda Dube said the day was a culmination of immense planning and hard work which sought to reconnect attendees to the child in every one of them. She extended her gratitude to everyone who made it happen and invited all to enjoy the celebration.
Fr Rampe said: “We open the celebrations rightly so with thanks-giving and Eucharistic celebration”.
He spoke about the work that was started by the Holy Cross Sisters and their collaborators. He drew parallels
between St Bartholomew, sisters, brothers and priests saying their journey was not easy.
“The sisters operated under an oppressive regime of apartheid to ensure that black children received a quality education. Like St Barth-olomew, they faced challenges, oppositions and persecutions. That did not deter them from giving up their lives so they could take part in the mission of Christ which is peace, love and universal justice,” he said.
He encouraged people to reflect on the work that was started by the sisters and collaborators and see if this work still exists. Are we still faithful to their mission of giving quality education, human develop-ment and excellence, he asked.
Those who had been part of the journey, but had since passed on, were specially remembered with candles lit in their honour.
The school, which has a remark-
able history of academia and voca-tions to the priesthood and religi-ous life, will host fundraising activi-ties to assist in ensuring disadvan-taged children continue to receive quality education. These will include a gala dinner and golf day.
For more information, contact centenary celebrations committee member, Mahadi Buthelezi on 083 992 0387
Lerato Mohone
On Sunday, 25 August, 12 of 14 “Ladies in Blue” from St Patrick’s, La Rochelle, publicly renewed their vows. These Catholic Women’s
League members promised to work selflessly for the service and better-ment of the community, incorporating their motto of Charity, Work and Loyalty. Candice Umeh was inducted as a new member to the league bringing the total number of members at this branch to 15. Members were presented with badges so as to be easily identified at functions. Mrs Vilma Picinich is the oldest member and is a life honorary member as she has given 61 years of service to the league. Dominique Byrne
Celebrating 100 years of academic excellence
Learners presenting a liturgical dance.
Kgothatso Malema entertained the crowd with her violin skills.
Holy Cross Sisters novice, Marceline Javengwa during the prayers of the faithful.
Immaculata High School principal Dr Mmagauta Dube during her welcome address.
Fr Rampe Hlobo SJ and a collaborator of the school, Peter Mpuang.
What were your hopes and dreams at your baptism? Although we are firstly responsible
for ourselves and our own families, our common mission as Christians is to care for our neighbours too, to be disciples and spread the good news of God’s love to others. MARFAM’s mission is to promote the well-being of every member and all families.
The Church looks to the Christian family, which manifests her in a real way. God has given the family the job of domesticating the world and helping each person to see fellow human beings as brothers and sisters. AL 183.
The Church is in the midst of an Extraordinary Mission month. It began with the closing of the Synod on 21 September in the Archdiocese. The theme for the universal Church is “baptised and sent” so we, as families, can reflect and share on baptism or christening as we often call it. Why are we baptised? Quite simply, in Evangelii Gaudium Pope Francis
writes, “the joy of the gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus. Those who accept his offer of salvation are set free from sin, sorrow, inner emptiness and loneliness. With Christ, joy is constantly born anew.” EG1.
Marfam invites families to have a “Remembering our Baptism” celebration at home. Dig out photos, get in touch with godparents if possible, share memories, thoughts and dreams and maybe in small groups or as families bring them to a parish baptismal renewal celebration, ending with a resounding “sending out” call. Where to? The highways and byways, the shopping malls and the “parkruns”, the inner city and the outer countryside. That should bring some joy into family life, liven up our ideal of mission and pay tribute to St Therese, the Guardian Angels and St Francis, some of the saints of the month.
For MARFAM’s THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY email [email protected] or for more visit www.marfam.org.za. MARFAM is turning 25. Would you like to join us in celebrating our quarter century? Call Toni 0825521275
October theme:Family Mission Month
Ladies in Blue renew vows
[email protected] 2019 Volume 34 No 7 5
The Department of Evange-lisation hosted a work-shop for the committees
of the parish pastoral council (PPC) and the parish finance committee (PFC) at St Joseph’s, Katlehong on Saturday, 27 July.
The 25 officials that came from St Joseph’s and the outstations of Holy Trinity-Kwanele, St Theresa-Magagula and Divine Mercy-Zonk’izizwe, included members of the fund-raising committees.
In his welcoming address, the priest in charge, Fr Elijah Otu MSP, pointed out the importance of the workshop as a medium and opportunity to gather neces-sary information regarding leadership in the Church. “Those who miss such opportunities will struggle with fulfilling their tasks efficiently and effectively,” he said.
The head of the department, Odilon Molapo, facilitated the workshop. He was assisted by Fikile Mokoena from Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Zuurbekom.
The proceedings began with an invitation to the participants to share their expectations,
challenges, needs, achievements and experiences of leadership.
The workshop, whose subject matter was Christian Leadership Orientation, was divided into two sessions. The first session dealt with the origins of the Church, the difference between the Roman Catholic Church and other churches and their spirituality, while the second session explored Christian leadership which sought a response to the question: ‘What is God calling us to do?’
The statutes of the PPC and PFC were also discussed extensively.
Expressing his gratitude to the evangelisation department on behalf of the officials, PPC chairman of the host parish, Harry Mosia, said the workshop had strengthened their resolve to serve the Church with diligence and assured Odilon that the information would be shared with their respective congregants.
Abel Dlamini
In May, Pope Francis addres-sed the International Union of Superiors General in
Rome. The approximately 850 women from 80 countries, representing some 700 000 nuns and sisters around the world were expecting to hear the Pope announcing the ordination of women deacons – or not. The answer was not. Among the reasons he gave was that ours is a Church of tradition.
This led to a need to reflect on consecrated religious life and current developments. Sr Biddy Rose and Sr Shelagh Mary, both of Sisters for Justice, undertook to research the history of women in the Church and women religious in particular. The result was an informative and challenging ‘pocket’ history from the time of Christ to present with a concluding question ‘Quo vadisti, Sisters in Arms.’
Sisters in Arms is a reference to a book of that title by J K McNamara. In it the author states that ‘no human institution is older than this sisterhood.’ She contends that church history, written by men, is of men and largely ignores women in the Church.
Sisters Biddy and Shelagh Mary started with the shared roots of religious life. There were no divisions among early Christians who lived a life of chaste celibacy. In imitation of Jesus, women too, were accorded respect and dignity. Celibacy for them meant autonomy and choices, then and now, although the mutual respect of early
Christians for each other, regardless of gender, has been eroded. Nevertheless, this call to celibacy is the core of a religious vocation.
In early times, the meal in memory of Jesus was presided over by women or men – an undisputed historical fact. That changed as Christian virgins were cloistered – possibly in imitation of the Roman temple virgins – and referred to the as the ‘daughters of eve’, no longer on a par with men. Nearly a millennium later, the Council of Rome in 1059 established the Virgin Mary as the ideal woman, excluding at a stroke lay, married women and childless celibate women, from achieving ‘the ideal.’
The talk covered the growth and development of monasticism; the corruption of these into princely fiefdoms; the Beguines, communities of lay women seeking dignity and the growth of the mendicant orders which quickly reduced the women followers of Dominic and Francis to 2nd order followers by enclosing them in convents.
After the social and economic upheaval of the Black plague, it was women who fed and clothed
the poor, nursed the sick and educated the lowly.
The great women mystics like Julian of Norwich and St Hildegard, reformers like Theresa of Avila are appended to the history of the Church rather than included in it.
Later missionary sisters followed the hunting, exploring, conquering missionary fathers in their footsteps and in their shadows.
After Vatican I, the Church took the lead in the pursuit of social justice, the rights for workers for example; the vote for women and the right of women in convents to study.
Women religious embraced with enthusiasm the Vatican II renewal of consecrated life. Nuns are in the forefront of caring for creation, a response to the challenges of our time.
Sisters today, said Biddy and Shelagh, look to the Focolare Movement and the new monasticism as key to future religious life ‘beyond the barriers of gender distinctions.’
For more about the speakers and WAACSA see https://www.catholicjhb.org.za/departments/archdiocesan-news/
Judy Stockill
It’s impossible for me, a non-medical practitionerl, to call together and coordinate a group
of medical professionals to give medical services, guidance and counselling to the parishioners of St Francis of Assisi, Yeoville and others. But with the special grace of God, the approval and support of Fr Johannes Silalahi CICM and Fr Ernest Kabungo CMM, the group has thrived for half a decade in its existence and services to humanity.
Thanks go to Raymond Debroiz and Ndivile Mokoena, former colleagues in the HIV/Aids depart-ment for their encouragement. Thanks also to Fr Ernest and all the members of the Health Desk who continue to be available with their medical services to God’s people.
Rev Sr Mary Cecilia Anawanti EHJ
Workshop for Parish Councils
Parish council members are pictured after the workshop with,
far left, Odilon Molapo and far right, Fikile Mokoena.
Sisters Shelagh Mary Waspe and Biddy Rose Tiernan (centre) with
Paul Traynor at the WAACSA meeting of 20 July.
Religious Life through the Ages
Yeoville’s health desk celebrates half a decade
Health Desk members with Fr Ernest Kabungo and a visiting priest.
Feast of Assumption Bryanston
On the feast of the Assumption at the Church of the Resurrection, Bryanston, a bier bearing a statue of Our Lady was borne in proces-sion to the altar. At the beginning of Mass parishioners placed their floral tributes on the bier creating this wonderful display. Here Anna Sophia in front, and, from left Justine, Ronin and Samara with Kathy McArthur of Justice and Peace adding more blooms.
Sunday, 11 August dawned bright and beautiful for the
great Solemnity of the Assump-tion of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Patroness of South Africa. The newly-built grotto at St Patrick’s Church in La Rochelle was blessed and the exquisite, unique
statue of Our Lady of the Immac-ulate Conception was unveiled.
Prior to this moment, at the end of Mass, parish priest Fr Jorge Guerra, assisted by Fr Pablo Velasquez, Fr John Panpogee and Deacon Walter Middleton, called up a representative from each of the more than 30 groups in the
parish to receive a lit candle which was placed at the grotto to symbolise the light – The Risen Christ that each of the group members need to be, to the community they serve. Feasting followed with each parishioner received food, drink and cake.
Dominique Byrne
Blessing of grotto – La Rochelle
[email protected] October 2019Volume 34 No 76
Philisiwe Hadebe commends Vusi and Gladys Tau for finishing the race.
Friends of the Shrine fun walk
The streets of Moroka in the Regina Mundi vicinity were bursting with colour as the second yearly Friends of the Shrine Fun
Walk took place on Saturday, 7 September.Couples, individuals, clergy, religious all brought
various strategies to finish the 8km walk which was enjoyed by all who participated. This was followed by a lively aerobics session during which the vicar general, Fr Paul Beukes OMI helped by energising and encouraging participants.
A raffle draw took place. All three prizes – a laptop, smart television and microwave oven were won by parishioners of St Joseph, Meadowlands.
Afterwards people relaxed on their camping chairs whilst children enjoyed the jumping castle and the balloons given to them by the clowns.
The Catholic Men’s Association assisted with marshalling the crowd and provided security.
Lerato Mohone
Nomakhuwa Msibi and Lucas Mand-lazi joyful to be among the first 50 to reach the finish line.
Lebo Lentsoane having a fun walk.Nomsa Malinga (centre on stilts) brought a carnivalesque feel to the walk – she is flanked by Batseba Seboka and Maria Tshabalala.
Representatives from St Angela, Dobsonville.
Parishioners from Christ the King, Orlando East persevere through the walk.
Fr Paul calling out the lucky numbers.
Ayanda Msibi and Thokozile Mahlangu thrilled to have completed the 8kms.
Tebogo Tsimane poses with Sr Juliana Abioye EHJ from the Youth Department.
Matshepo Kekana, Meisi Matthews, Nomsa Malinga
and convenor Thandi Mlotshwa
celebrate with Jabulile
Tshabalala.
And one, two, three, four… Vicar general, Fr Paul Beukes OMI taking the crowd through the paces as he instructs the aerobics class.
A family that walks and prays together ... the Thusi family from St Philip Neri, Moletsane.
Above: Sr Connie Khuele principal of St Matthews Primary School, Moroka, Magdeline Thokoane and Joyce Maphisa excited to be among the first 200 to reach the finish line.
Wandile Meletse and Dickson Mofokeng ready to
begin the walk.
Members of St Anne’s Sodality Sonia Tau, Dudu Masina, Bongi Shibambu and Mandy Nxumalo.
Participants breaking a sweat during aerobics.
Fr Sikhosiphi Mgoza OP softly sang Marian hymns during his
walk with and for Mother Mary.
Brotherhood – members of St Vin-cent de Paul – Kevin Barnard, Peter Keshwar and Vincent Williams also lent their support.
[email protected] 2019 Volume 34 No 7 7
Immaculate Conception Sodality members, Nurse Hadebe, Veronica Ngcwabe
and Gladys Tau placing orders of the World Mission Rosary which will be recited during the procession at the big cele-bration on 19 October with Evelyn Mahlangu of Holy Cross, Zola.
The rosaries are available for sale at R40 for adults and R20 for children at the Chancery and presidents of sodalities. They will also be available at the celebration.
One of the biggest highlights of this year’s liturgical calendar is the celebration
of Extraordinary Mission Month. An Archdiocesan celebration will take place at St Dominic’s Catholic School for Girls in Boksburg on Saturday, 19 October.
TransportCome in groups by using combis/buses. Parking will be at the school, not at the parish.
ProcessionYou are encouraged to arrive by 07:00 at St Dominic’s parish, Boks-burg. We will organise ourselves according to various groups.
A procession reciting the World Mission Rosary will start at 08:00 from the parish to the school.
BannersYou are welcome to bring your own provided you can carry them during the procession.
MassMass will be led by Archbishop Buti Tlhagale OMI and Bishop Duncan Tsoke at 09:00/10:00. It will be celebrated on the sports ground. Bring camp chairs.
Dress codeWhite stoles for priestsUniform for sodalitiesTraditional attire for rest of the laity
World Mission Rosary available for sale
RefreshmentsThe school’s tuckshop will be open. No other person will be allowed to sell refreshments.Priests to confirm their attendance with liturgy department by Friday, 11 October for catering purposes.
RepositoryVendors will be available for sacramentals. No sales will take place during Mass.Catholic Men’s Forum will be available for directions.
SecurityGates at the school will open for parking at 06:00. They will close after the procession at 09:00 for security purposes. They will reopen at 1pm. The school should be vacated by 2pm.
Background of Extraordinary Mission MonthTo commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the encyclical Maximum Illud, released by Pope
Benedict XV, Pope Francis has declared October 2019 to be an Extraordinary Month of Mission.
The theme is “Baptised and Sent: The Church of Christ on Mission in the World”.
There are four dimensions, specified by the Pope to live more intensely the journey of preparation for this month:
- A personal encounter with Jesus in His Church through the Eucharist, the Word of God, personal and communal prayer;
- Testimony: missionary saints, mar-tyrs and confessors of the faith, as an expression of the Church scattered throughout the world;
- Missionary formation: biblical, cate- chetical, spiritual and theological; and
- Missionary charity
The logoThe logo of the Extraordinary Mission Month is a missionary cross where the primary colours refer to the five continents.
The Cross is the instrument and direct sign of communion between God and man for the universality of our mission, and through its vibrant colours, a sign of victory and resurrection.
The words Baptised and Sent, next to the image, indicate the characteristics of every Christian: baptism and proclamation.
Every baptised Christian is sent
Veronica Mofokeng and Veronica Pieterson pose next to the Extraordinary Mission Month Archdiocesan banner which is proudly displayed in the foyer of the Chancery.
Extraordinary Mission Month Archdiocesan
banner
[email protected] October 2019Volume 34 No 78
The parish of Sacred Heart in Katlehong hosted a music festival at DH Williams Community Hall in Katlehong on Sunday, 1 September.
A capacity crowd in the hall included parisioners from neighbouring churches who came to witness and enjoy the captivating music and dance.
Invited choristers who shared the stage were: Divine Misericorde of the Catholic French Community from City Deep under the leadership of Peter Yombo, Mvuselelo Male Voices led by Bheki Mahlangu, Empilisweni Melodies under Thulani Mzimba and Joyful Voices conducted by Mpho Mazibuko. The host parish’s Masolenyana, St Cecilia and a combined choir completed the ensemble which drew a resounding standing ovation from the enthusiastic audience after every performance on stage.
Speaking at the music festival, the overwhelmed Sacred Heart parish priest Fr Jean-Lambert Nzaji Kalaka OMI, said the purpose of the festival was to raise funds for the upkeep and maintenance of the Church, in particular, and to develop the music that enhances the spiritual growth in the community in general.
The music festival was also attended by Fr Sefako Santawana from Holy Family, Spruitview.
Proceeds from food and refreshments formed part of the fund-raising project. Abel Dlamini
The Divine Misericorde opened the stage with a beautiful rendition.
The enthusiastic audience enjoys the music.
Masolenyana of Sacred Heart thrilled the audience with song and dance.
Sacred Heart Fundraising
Immaculata Shelter was originally the church hall of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Rose-bank. In 1993, the Sisters of Mercy working with the
City of Johannesburg, converted it into a shelter which accommodates 80 men and 20 women who are homeless. Residents get three meals a day, laundry and ablution facilities, TVs and books. They are helped to find work and re-establish themselves and find their own permanent accommodation. Social services and an advice bureau are available. Skills training includes computer training, business language and CV writing, job seeking and interview skills. The shelter is funded by private donations and a subsidy from the city’s department of health and welfare.
Each weekday, the shelter provides food to about 250 street people. The ablution and laundry are open to the homeless.
The Rosebank Homeless Association, which has a clothes’ donations collection box in the Rosebank Mall, works with Immaculata shelter to address the needs of the homeless in the area.
Other Mercy Shelters in Johannesburg include the Strabane centre in the Johannesburg CBD and the Primedia centre in Berea. Judy Stockill
Parish priest Fr Kalaka OMI, standing, enjoys the proceedings. Next to him is the host parish conductor of the Mass choir Dingaan Mak-hale (holding a baby).
The Sacred Heart Mass choir entertains the audience.
Joyful Voices Community Choir delivers on stage.
Mercy Sister Elaine Pearton with Alex Bhiman of the City of Johannesburg. Alex contributed to the establish-ment of the Immaculata Shelter for the Homeless in Rosebank. Alex and Sr Elaine met at a faith event at St Francis of Assisi Anglican
Immaculata Shelter for the Homeless
church in Parkview. In the background is a curtain embroi-dered by the Keiskamma art project in Hamburg, Eastern Cape, creators of the world-famous Keiskamma Tapestry, a pictorial history of the Eastern Cape.
[email protected] 2019 Volume 34 No 7 9
On 28 August, the Bo-kamoso Launching of Bokamoso Centre of Ex-
cellence in the Vaal was launched. The project started three years ago as the Department of Social Development intensified their re-lationship with Bokamoso Skills and Economic Development Centre. As a result, the centre has partnered with the department
Sodality of the Sacred Heart of Jesus retreat
The retreat for the Sacred Heart of Jesus Sodality in the Vaal Deanery, held in Nyolohelo, Sebokeng on Saturday, 7 September was directed by the Dean, Fr Solomon Mphela. Fr Mphela spoke about the impor-tance of being committed to the activities and spirituality of the Sodality and to be passionate about matters of the faith.
Members also had the opportunity to adore the Blessed Sacrament.
Parish pastoral councils and finance committee workshopsThe parish pastoral council and the parish finance committee attended a workshop conducted by the Evangelisation Depart-ment in the Vaal Deanery. This took place on Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Vereeniging.
Workshop for altar serversA workshop for the altar servers of the Vaal Deanery was directed by their chaplain, Fr Henry Gonsan SMA on Saturday, 7 September at Nyolohelo, Sebokeng.
Echoing the WordFr Joseph Vaddakkan presented the fourth session of Echoing the Word. The topic was The Church and Scripture. It took place at St Benedict, Bophelong on Saturday, 7 September.
Bokamoso Centre of Excellence, in St Francis Xavier, Evaton
Fr Solomon Mphela (left) and Fr Patrick Noonan, far right, pictured with participants.
Unveiling and blessing of grottoFr Solomon Mphela says a prayer before unveiling the grotto.
The blessing and unveiling of the Grotto of Assumpta
Primary School in Sharpeville in the Vaal Deanery took place on 15 August. The Dean, Fr Solo-mon Mphela led with the service and, in his sermon, he invited the learners to be good listeners like Mary. There were prominent invited guests, amongst them Dr Prof Manana Thuane, is a former learner who assisted the school
with the building of a grotto. Assumpta Primary School is one of the oldest schools in the Vaal Triangle. It was established in 1936 by the Sisters of the Holy Rosary. The school, under the stewardship of Clement Nkhu-mishe, has undergone huge development. Assumpta is known for its adherence to the Catholic character discipline, hard work and community outreach projects.
Fr Solomon Mphela addresses attendees.
VA A L N E W S
Altar servers’ retreat
Fr Alpheus Ngcobo of Eshowe diocese while
visiting Orange Farm Catholic Church recently had the oppor-tunity of closing the retreat of altar servers which was held at St Louis. He was also present at the 50th anniversary of Nyolo-helo parish, Sebokeng on 24 September. More on the Nyolohelo celebration in the next edition of ADNews.
on skills’ development for young people.
The member of mayoral committee from Sedibeng Munici-pality, Dimakatso Maria Malisa
and the MEC who launched the Bokamoso Centre of Excellence was Zaza Makgomo Raikane, from the Gauteng Province. The opening prayer and the history of the Catholic Church was given by the dean, Fr Solomon Mphela, with Elizabeth Marabe manager of the centre who started the proj-ect. She gave a history of the birth of the centre.
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[email protected] October 2019Volume 34 No 710
Buy a granny blanket drive
Twenty grannies received blankets that were bought
for them by St Gabriel, Catholic Men’s Forum in Khutsong. These blankets made a wonder-ful gift especially in the season of winter and in particular during the Women’s Month when they were given to them. “It was indeed a wonderful and a happy day for the grannies in the par-ish. We wish them the best in their lives”, said Komello Moloi.
In the photo are Fr Joseph Nnadi in white, flanked by members of CMF, Friends of the Shrine and some recipients.
Komello Moloi
Sacred Heart Sodality membersFr Sefako Santawana of Holy Family, Spruitview presents members of the Sacred Heart Sodality to the congregation. They are, Moipone Mahlangu, Jabu Gwebu and Nomonde Nzutha. Standing next to them are proba-tioners who received their crosses, from left: Susan Ngoaile, Mokgadi Makgatho, Dudu Mkhize and Nomsa Shelembe. Veronica Pieterson
Sacred Heart members of West Rand Deanery visited Esi-
demi Legae La Bana in Roertville on Sunday, 25 August. It was very sad to see the conditions of the patients living there which left many in tears.
Sacred Heart Members prayed for the patients, sang with them,
New members of Children of Mary Sodality
Fr Malesela Dikgale with members of Children of Mary Sodality on Sunday, 25 August at St Theresa, Zondi. Victor Makhoba
embraced and hugged them to make them feel needed. Members also contributed toiletries and cleaning material.
They prayed for staff mem-bers who are take care of patients in very difficult circumstances.
Lydia Moloi
New members of Immaculate Conception enrolled
On 25 August, Holy Family, Spruitview vested nine Immaculate Concep-tion Sodality founding members at the parish. They are, from left: N Nkonyane, M Kgosana, T Qhobo, D M Setou, H Masehla, L Chirwa, E Kha-laki, N Thamae and P Buthelezi. Mass was celebrated by Fr Raphael ntlou and parish priest, Fr Sefako Santawana. Gcina Magagula
On Sunday, 8 September, coinciding with the Feast of Nativity of Mary, the
Daughters of St Anne Sodality in St Theresa, Zondi launched an out-reach programme. The project comes as a mandate given to Baradi by founding father of the Sodality Archbishop Buti Tlhagale OMI and archdiocesan spiritual director, Fr Nkosinathi Nkabinde.
The aim is to address, raise awareness, inform and educate the community and the Church about all the social issues that make women, children and the youth vulnerable. This programme will be implemented through the series of talks, workshops and action or campaigns. Retreats and other spiritual renewal programs will also form part of these activities. In the process of implementation needs will be identified and attempts made to respond to the needs. This will be done within the means availables. The group be working with the parish spiritual director in most of the psychologi-cal and spiritual matters.
The programme was launched under the theme “Lamathambo asengaphila” (These dry bones can still live) which connotes hope in this situation that is faced by our women and children in the coun-try. Members wore black clothing as a symbol of mourning the moral degeneration and also for all the lives that’s been lost in the past. Boys had doeks or scarfs on as a pledge that they will support women and protect them against any harm.
Daughters of St Anne, St Theresa, Zondi
Just north of Riverlea, off Main Reef Road is the Harrison Park, historic site of
the discovery of gold-bearing reef on the Witwatersrand.
Next to the park is TC Ester-huysen Primary School. The access road to the school is closed and children have to no option but to use Main Reef Road with all its attendant traffic risks. The safe road to school is collapsing into a nearby open mine pit. New Company, allegedly owned by Steinhoff, is actively mining the old reef from the surface. The earth moving creates dust and has closed off roads. Ergo are active on the west of the N1. New mining for heavy mineral tailings is planned for the wetlands between Riverlea and the iconic FNB Soccer Stadium. There is never any meaningful consultation with the affected communities says Mark Kayter, of Justice and Peace. If they call meetings to comply with their legal obligations to consult, the company schedules the meetings at 11:00 on weekday mornings when everyone is at work. ‘Justice and Peace activists and the Riverlea Mining Forum have been striving for years to have the issues arising from mining near the homes of Riverlea addressed. We have appealed to authorities in the departments of transport, education, mining and heritage. And the department of health – Riverlea has one of the highest incidents of asthma. We have petitioned the Mayor and the Premier. We have sought the support of the SACBC.’ Mark said at the community screening of Jozi Gold at the Riverlea recreation centre on Saturday 17 August.
Zondi launches an outreach programme
The film documents the pollution of water by Acid Mine Drainage and of air by minedump dust high in radioactive uranium. The mine dumps are dangerously radioactive, yet people have built their homes there. The radioactive mine waste has even been used to make bricks.
The film unveils the horrors of the toxic mining legacy by following the work of Mariette Liefferink, an advisory committee member of the South African Human Rights Commission and the founder and CEO of the Foundation for a Sustainable Environment as she pressures mining bosses to accept their environmental responsibilities and government agencies to do their work. Government, beneficiary of the taxes on gold mining com-panies, is failing the poorest of the poor.
World acclaimed author, Uni-versity of Johannesburg professor Sylvia Vollenhoven, inspired by the work of fellow journalist Adam Welz, thought it a story worth documenting and enlisted Swede Fredrik Gertten as her co-director.
The film is available for screening in other mining-affected communities. Contact Professor Vollenhoven by e-mail [email protected] to make arrangements.
Harrison Park is also home to illegal miners who access the old abandoned mine workings at that point. The hazards of earning a living mining under these danger-ous conditions is also captured in the documentary, Jozi Gold.
Judy Stockill
Environmental activists, from left: Mariette Liefferink, FSE; Sylvia Vollen-hoven, film maker; Mark Kayter of Justice and Peace ministry of St Maria Goretti parish and chairperson of the Riverlea Mining Forum and Carol Kara activist of Riverlea West at the premier of Jozi Gold.
Toxic Legacy
Sacred Heart visitSacred Heart visit
[email protected] 2019 Volume 34 No 7 11
Fr Christophe Boyer 08.10.94Fr Neil Mitchell 08.10.16Fr Deneys Williamson 08.10.16Fr Lizwelinjani Mlotshwa 09.10.04Fr Samuel Gitonga 20.10.05Rev Francis Graham 20.10.18Fr Emmanuel Wafula 22.10.89Fr Sefako Santawana 27.10.18Fr Boshom Mpetsheni 27.10.18Fr Raymond Matseke 27.10.18Fr Abel Maluleka 27.10.18
3rd Fr Ronald Cairns4th Fr Daniel Sehlapelo6th Fr Michael Austin12th Rev Thami Mayisela14th Rev Philip Teulon18th Rev Michael Sadie19th Rev Douglas Boake22nd Fr Mariano Perez Gonzalez24th Fr Raphael Ntlou25th Fr Joachim Malunga25th Rev Ernest Madondo26th Fr Kelvin Banda28th Fr Benen Fahy28th Fr Anthony Thouard28th Fr Benedict Mahlangu29th Fr Martin Morrisey30th Fr Chaka Motanyane31st Rev Patrick De Laroche31st Rev Mnimzana Mpambani
1st Fr Miguel De Lemos3rd Fr Elijah Otu5th Fr Arvin Tauro
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We celebrate with our Priests
Ordinations
We celebrate with our priests. The following priests and deacons celebrate their
birthdays and anniversaries of their ordination.
Pray for them!
Birthdays in October
... and in early November
It’s not every day that a large group of young men in formation to the
priesthood visit a parish and take charge of the singing during Mass. When they do, everybody in attendance can be assured of a spiritually-
Brothers from the Oblates of Mary Immaculate novitiate visited St Peter Claver, Pimville to share their spiritual life with the youth and the parish- ioners. They stayed for three weeks with Fr Tom Segami OMI, the parish priest. On the last day, they partici-pated at Mass with Fr Patrick Dladla. Br Bafana and Br Thembelani pictured with Fr Dladla sang a special song for the congregation.
Gabriel Selamolele
When seminarians embark on a parish visit
Seminarians Kabelo Manake and Azola Mbeki from Kokstad diocese, Br Sechaba Liphoko, Fr Sefako Santawana and Br Sibusiso Zulu.
enriching and moving experience.This is what happened when
approximately 45 seminarians from St John Vianney Seminary visited Holy Family, Spruitview on the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. Mass was celebrated by parish priest, Fr Sefako San-tawana.
President of the St John Vian-ney Seminary Student Council Br Sipho Mavimbela said: “In a se-mester seminarians visit a parish that is not too far off their radius, whilst in the second semester any parish or sodality that wishes to pay us a visit is afforded the op-portunity to do so.
Fr Sefako Santawana with Catholic Women’s League members who on the day renewed their promises and who wore beautiful clothes depicting the Holy Family. They are from left: Magdeline Selemela, Lindiwe Moleko, Pam Gongxeka, Mercia Xulu and Veronica Pieterson.
SJV choir presenting songs
that had the crowd enthralled.
“It is a chance for us to famil-iarise ourselves with parish life, to fellowship with people, expos-ing young people to vocation life, with the hope that it will help increase vocations to the priest-hood,” he continued.
In his reflection, Fr Sefako said: The dragon that sought to devour the Child, was also after the Mother. When we are bap-
tised, we do not become exempt - satan pursues us just like he did the mother and Child.
He exhorted the faithful to enlist the help of Mother Mary who was given to us by her Son on the cross.
The energetic Br Karabo Lephuting gave witness on voca-tions.
“Jesus is calling everyone to a vocation. It could be priest-hood, consecrated life, marriage or singlehood. In every vocation, one dies to oneself so that others should live. Ask God what He wants from you as and, through the stillness and silence of our
hearts, we are able to hear God speak,” he added.
In a friendly musical compe-tition, choirs took to the stage to render items.
St John Vianney seminary choir would not be upstaged.
The parish was later joined by members of the neighbouring St Albert’s, Vosloorus and Sacred Heart, Katlehong.
Fr Sibusiso Sithathu formator of the seminarians accompanied them.
Lerato Mohone
Novices visit St Peter Claver, Pimville
Fr Eugene Hennessey SDB
Fr Eugene Henesssy SDB passed away on Thursday, 12 September. He was laid to rest at the cemetery on the property of the Bosco Sale-sian Community in Walkerville on Thursday, 19 September.
May his soul rest in peace.
RIP
Seminarians visit Our Lady of the Rosary, Phiri
Holy Rosary, in Phiri, Soweto had the honour of hosting seminarians from the Archdiocese on Sunday, 21 September.
They were: Br Monwabisi Ntshudu – St Pius X, Mogomotsi; Br Thato Mashokwe – St Angela’s, Dobsonville; Br Fusi Khumalo – Our lady of Mount Camel, Thokoza; Br Mlungisi Mabe – Our lady of Peace, Kagiso; Br Karabo Lephuthing – St Anthony Duduza; Br Tshepo Maseko – Our Lady of Peace, Kagiso and Br Bongani Thunza – Emmanuel Catholic Church, Zoe 14, Sebo-keng. Pictured with them is Fr Michael Seheri, who is their lecturer at St John Vianney Seminary in Pretoria. Thabile Mbhele
[email protected] October 2019Volume 34 No 712
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New Catholic Women’s League members – Bekkersdal
On 18 August, Mamorena Mpati, Keitumetse Seripe and Goitseona Paledi were enrolled into the Catholic Women’s League at St Paul of the Cross in Bekkersdal. The main celebrant at Mass was parish priest, Fr Teboho Matseke. Tebogo Tsimane
Catholic Women’s League renewing commitments
Members of the Catholic Women’s League of Our Lady of Victories, Doornkop renewing their commitment in front of parish priest, Fr Francis Xavier Barongo AJ on 18 August. Fikile Ndima
The Catholic Women’s League of Our Lady of Victories, Doorn-kop looked for a sponsor to donate a much-needed wheelchair for a young man in the neighbourhood, Mooketsi Moiloa on Sunday, 18 August.
The councillor of Ward 50, Bheki Mgaga was also invited to this occasion to show that the Church is not only looking out for Catholics. Fikile Ndima
The Tuesday and Saturday groups of the Catholic
Women’s League of St Charles, Victory Park hosted a thank-you tea for Gussie Norse. Members met at Mountainview retirement village, and presented Gussie with a thank you gift for her help
The parish of St Anthony Pucci had the joy of celebrating two feasts in one day, our patron saint and not just one, but two weddings. This took place on Sunday, 25 August during the Mass celebrated by Fr Joseph Luyombya and parish priest, Fr John Thembo. Thobile Ndimande
St Anne’s sodality of Holy Trinity, Kwanele in Katlehong accepted three new members into the sodality at a reception ceremony for full members at the parish on Sunday, 1 Sep-tember. Having completed a one-year probation period, they were received with bless-ings by parish priest Fr Elijah Otu MSP. Abel Dlamini
Thank you for your hard work and dedication, Gussie
From left: Gussie Norse, Victory Park Tuesday Branch President - Melanie Greenall and Victory Park, Saturday
Branch President, Marlene Armstrong
and dedication to all. Gussie was retiring as secretary of St Charles, a position she held for 40 years. She was the “go-to” lady for any problems that related to dates, fixtures and happenings in the church and always did it all with a smile, said her admirers. She
mentioned parish priests, Fr Ignatius Fidgeon and Fr James Ralston as the two most recent priests with whom she worked. She remains a parishioner of St Charles.
Ida SteynCWL Diocesan News Correspondent
A much-needed wheelchair donated
St Anne’s Sodality GrowingFront row second from left, are: Azalinah Radebe, Lucia Tshabalala and Maria Ndlovu. They are flanked by, front left, Anna Seforo, chairperson and far right, Francina Pepenene, deputy chairperson as well as other members of the sodality.
Below: “Final Few of South Africa,” a bikers’ club which
donated the wheelchair.
Left: Mooketsi’s mother, Nhlanhla Moiloa, their neighbour Pheki Mabaso and ward committee member, Maxwell Hlongwane. Behind is parish priest, Fr Francis Xavier AJ and Mooketsi Moiloa on the wheelchair.
A women’s conference in Freedom Park
Blessed Joseph Gerard, Freedom Park held a Women’s Conference, on Saturday, 7 September to honour women for their role in the
church and society. The vibrant youth group rendered music starting by remembering women who’ve been victims of domestic violence and abuse. Motivational speakers and Fr Nqobile Mzolo encouraged women to emulate Mother Mary and be strong, prayerful ladies. The conference ended with men in the parish thanking all the women with special gifts. Thabile Mbhele
Feast of Our Lady of CzestochowaA beautiful celebration on the Feast of Our Lady of Czestochowa on Sunday, 25 August at St Francis of Assisi, Vanderbijlpark. Mass was celebrated by Fr Radosław Szymo-niak, pictured below with altar server Jakub Staudt. It was a won-derful time of fellowship with our Polish brothers and sisters in Christ.
Elaine Prosper
Feast day and wedding festivities
From left: Jacob Matekane, Fransina Matekane, Fr John Thembo, Vusi Motaung and Florence Motaung.