[email protected]January 2018 Volume 32 No 9 1 Telephone (011) 402 6400 • www.catholicjhb.org.za A publication of the Catholic Archdiocese of Johannesburg JANUARY 2018 news news MWYD Page 4 MWYD Page 4 MWYD Page 5 MWYD Page 5 ‘Let’s all contribute to the unity of South Africans’ s Christians, our contribution to the admirable and worthwhile project of nation- building derives from the Christian scriptures. It is the Word of God that gives believers a moral and spiritual orientation. Thus in the letter of Paul to the Ephesians we are told that with the advent of Christ, all barriers that divide humankind have been broken down, that a new humanity is now taking place. In the idiom of the New Testament: there will no longer be distinctions between Jew and Greek, slave and free, male and female – and if I may add, black and white – all of you are one, and are citizens of one motherland, one fatherland (see Gal.3:28). You are the spitting image of the one God. The challenge to all South Africans is to take these sentiments or teachings to heart; to internalise them; to weave them into our lives so that the transcending of distinctions and working for unity, become second nature. The ushering in of democracy in 1994 meant the creation of a new but daunting South African consciousness, an exciting awareness of a new identity as South Africans, while giving full recognition to our religious, cultural, and racial diversity. Unity is the cornerstone, the highest value, the essential quality of any nation. It is a gift beyond compare, a gift par excellence, a sine qua non of any self- respecting nation. The year 1994 gave us a new order, a fresh start, a new solidarity, a new fellowship, a new creation, a new reality. This new order is intended to transcend the divisions of the past, to exorcise the ghost of apartheid, to work feverishly for unity and to embrace willingly the spirit of oneness. We are enjoined by the Scriptures to work, not for an abstract, spiritual unity, but for a palpable, tangible, concrete unity and a visible reconciliation. National days such as Freedom Day or Heritage Day ought to be symbols of national unity where people who come from different cultural and racial groups gather together to renew the bonds of unity. Such gatherings are yet to take place in South Africa. South Africans still live apart. They are suspicious of each other. Look at the sea of black faces. Where are the other racial groups? Why are they so tardy in joining hands with their fellow South Africans? They are like children shouting to each other as they sit in the market place: “We played the pipes for you, and you wouldn’t dance; we sang dirges, and you wouldn’t be mourners” (Mt.11.16). The ghosts of the past still keep us apart. For example, the freedom songs we used to sing when we were slaves in Egypt and continue to sing on national days have a jarring, discordant sound in the new democratic dispensation. They are excessively partisan. They send a clear signal that some people are not welcome. They are divisive. They undermine the project of national unity. The mountains are ready for a new echo, a new sound. It is imperative that we break into a new song of unity. There are other obstacles to the project of unity viz: the prevalent inequality, poverty, rampant greed, violent crimes, especially crimes against women and children, collusion and the blatant disregard for the rule of law. These impediments militate against the growth and promotion of national unity. As for the religious leaders from the different religious traditions, we gather here today not only to pray for the unity of all South Africans, but also to celebrate publicly the A variety of our devotions, spiritualities and rituals. In celebrating together we transcend the partiality of our own religious and denominational traditions in order to complement each other. It is this complementarity and unity in diversity that we keenly seek to embrace and promote, and that hopefully in so doing, we also contribute towards the unity of all the South African people regardless of their racial, cultural or social differences. God our Father, bless South Africa so that its people may become one nation, a peaceful, caring and compassionate people. +Buti Tlhagale National Day of Prayer Schoenstatt Shrine in Bedfordview Schoenstatt Shrine vandalism update he Schoenstatt Shrine in Bedfordview was broken into on the night of Thursday, 30 November. In their successful attempt to remove the whole tabernacle - and its entire contents - slight damage was caused to the statues of Ss Paul and Peter, as well as to the statue of St Michael, the Archangel by the thieves. Larger, and much more costly damage, was done to the altar, in particular the area surrounding the tabernacle. The statues have already been repaired and all that is needed is a key for St Peter’s hand and a sword for St Paul. It will be replace with either plastic or wood. “We have already secured the services of a new security firm RAG who will patrol the parking area nightly at irregular hours and respond promptly to the sisters’ calls whenever it becomes necessary,” said Schoenstatt spokesman, Tony Bishop. The alarm system inside the Shrine has been securely reconnected and the sister will ensure that the cupboard housing the controls will be locked outside of Mass times with access to the key strictly controlled, he added. Quotations for a new, improved alarm system for the garage, Shrine and house are being obtained and will be installed after consultation with experts as to the best system for the job. “Burglar proofing for the windows, and an ornate gate for the front door of the Shrine, as well as to the stairs leading up to the sisters’ bedrooms, have been discussed and work thereon will commence shortly. “Unfortunately, it becomes imperative that we raise the necessary funds to see all of this through to a satisfactory completion,” he said. Anyone able to contribute to these costs can either use bank account or donations can be made either Sister Marian or Sister Mary Clare. Schoenstatt Sisters bank account details Bank: Standard Bank Account name: Schoenstatt Sisters Branch: Bedford Gardens Branch Code: 018305 Account Number: 022593861 Reference: Security Shrine T At the Mini World Youth Day is, from left, Thokozane Mlungwana – a participant with Head of Youth Department, Sr Juliana Abioye and Charmaine Makhubela Chancery staff member in their diocesan T- shirts on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. See pages 4, 5 and 7. Photo by Lerato Mohone S T A U G U S T I N E C O L L E G E O F S O U T H A F R I C A Intellige ut credas UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES Bachelor of Arts Bachelor of Commerce (Philosophy, Politics and Economics) Bachelor of Theology POSTGRADUATE DEGREES BA Hons in Philosophy BA Hons in Peace Studies BTh Hons MPhil (Theology) Canon Law, Christian Spirituality, Fundamental and Systematic, Pastoral MPhil (Philosophy) MPhil (Applied Ethics) Business Ethics, Social and Political Ethics MPhil (Culture and Education) Educational Leadership DPhil (Theology) DPhil (Philosophy) CERTIFICATE COURSE Higher Certificate in Biblical Studies Invest in your future with an internationally recognised degree from St Augustine A LE ADE R I N E THI CAL E DUCAT I ON ST AUGUSTINE Registered with the South African Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) as a private higher education institution under the Higher Education Act, 1997 (Certificate No 2000/HE08/002). ( +27 (0)11 380 9000 * [email protected]www.staugustine.ac.za
‘Let’s all contribute to the unity of South Africans’
s Christians, our contribution to the admirable and worthwhile project of nation-
building derives from the Christian scriptures. It is the Word of God that gives believers a moral and spiritual orientation. Thus in the letter of Paul to the Ephesians we are told that with the advent of Christ, all barriers that divide humankind have been broken down, that a new humanity is now taking place.
In the idiom of the New Testament: there will no longer be distinctions between Jew and Greek, slave and free, male and female – and if I may add, black and white – all of you are one, and are citizens of one motherland, one fatherland (see Gal.3:28). You are the spitting image of the one God.The challenge to all South Africans is to take these sentiments or teachings to heart; to internalise them; to weave them into our lives so that the transcending of distinctions and working for unity, become second nature.
The ushering in of democracy in 1994 meant the creation of a new but daunting South African consciousness, an exciting awareness of a new identity as South Africans, while giving full recognition to our religious,
cultural, and racial diversity. Unity is the cornerstone, the highest value, the essential quality of any nation. It is a gift beyond compare, a gift par excellence, a sine qua non of any self- respecting nation.
The year 1994 gave us a new order, a fresh start, a new solidarity, a new fellowship, a new creation, a new reality. This new order is intended to transcend the divisions of the past, to exorcise the ghost of apartheid, to work feverishly for unity and to embrace willingly the spirit of oneness.
We are enjoined by the Scriptures to work, not for an abstract, spiritual unity, but for a palpable, tangible, concrete unity and a visible reconciliation. National days such as Freedom Day or Heritage Day ought to be symbols of national unity where people who come from different cultural and racial groups gather together to renew the bonds of unity. Such gatherings are yet to take place in South Africa. South Africans still live apart.
They are suspicious of each other. Look at the sea of black faces. Where are the other racial groups? Why are they so tardy in joining hands with their fellow South Africans? They are like children shouting to each other as
they sit in the market place:
“We played the pipes for you, and you wouldn’t dance;
we sang dirges, and you wouldn’t be mourners” (Mt.11.16).
The ghosts of the past still keep us apart. For example, the freedom songs we used to sing when we were slaves in Egypt and continue to sing on national days have a jarring, discordant sound in the new democratic dispensation. They are excessively partisan. They send a clear signal that some people are not welcome. They are divisive. They undermine the project of national unity. The mountains are ready for a new echo, a new sound. It is imperative that we break into a new song of unity. There are other obstacles to the project of unity viz: the prevalent inequality, poverty, rampant greed, violent crimes, especially crimes against women and children, collusion and the blatant disregard for the rule of law. These impediments militate against the growth and promotion of national unity.
As for the religious leaders from the different religious traditions, we gather here today not only to pray for the unity of all South Africans, but also to celebrate publicly the
A
variety of our devotions, spiritualities and rituals. In celebrating together we transcend the partiality of our own religious and denominational traditions in order to complement each other. It is this complementarity and unity in diversity that we keenly seek to embrace and promote, and that hopefully in so doing, we also contribute towards the unity of all the South African people regardless
of their racial, cultural or social differences.
God our Father, bless South Africa so that its people may become one nation, a peaceful, caring and compassionate people.
+Buti TlhagaleNational Day of Prayer
Schoenstatt Shrine in Bedfordview
Schoenstatt Shrine vandalism update
he Schoenstatt Shrine in Bedfordview was broken into
on the night of Thursday, 30 November. In their successful attempt to remove the whole tabernacle - and its entire contents - slight damage was caused to the statues of Ss Paul and Peter, as well as to the statue of St Michael, the Archangel by the thieves.Larger, and much more costly damage, was done to the altar, in particular the area surrounding the tabernacle.
The statues have already been repaired and all that is needed is a key for St Peter’s hand and a sword for St Paul. It will be replace with either plastic or wood. “We have already secured the services of a new security firm RAG who will patrol the parking area nightly at irregular hours and respond promptly to the sisters’ calls whenever it becomes necessary,” said Schoenstatt spokesman, Tony Bishop.
The alarm system inside the Shrine has been securely reconnected and the sister will ensure that the cupboard housing the controls will be locked outside of Mass times with access to the
key strictly controlled, he added.Quotations for a new, improved alarm system for the garage, Shrine and house are being obtained and will be installed after consultation with experts as to the best system for the job.
“Burglar proofing for the windows, and an ornate gate for the front door of the Shrine, as well as to the stairs leading up to the sisters’ bedrooms, have been discussed and work thereon will commence shortly.“Unfortunately, it becomes imperative that we raise the necessary funds to see all of this through to a satisfactory completion,” he said.
Anyone able to contribute to these costs can either use bank account or donations can be made either Sister Marian or Sister Mary Clare. Schoenstatt Sisters bank accountdetailsBank: Standard BankAccount name: Schoenstatt SistersBranch: Bedford GardensBranch Code: 018305Account Number: 022593861Reference: Security Shrine
T
At the Mini World Youth Day is, from left, Thokozane Mlungwana – aparticipant with Head of Youth Department, Sr Juliana Abioye andCharmaine Makhubela Chancery staff member in their diocesan T-
shirts on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.See pages 4, 5 and 7. Photo by Lerato Mohone
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UTHAFRICA
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Bachelor of Commerce (Philosophy, Politics and Economics)
Bachelor of Theology
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BA Hons in Philosophy
BA Hons in Peace Studies
BTh Hons
MPhil (Theology) Canon Law, ChristianSpirituality, Fundamental and Systematic, Pastoral
MPhil (Philosophy)
MPhil (Applied Ethics) Business Ethics, Social and Political Ethics
MPhil (Culture and Education) Educational Leadership
DPhil (Theology)
DPhil (Philosophy)
CERTIFICATE COURSE
Higher Certificate in Biblical Studies
Invest in your future with an internationally
recognised degree from St Augustine
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Father Thomas Plastow S.J. Answers Liturgy Questions
What ever happened to Benediction?
Happy New Year everyone! As the New Year begins, one of our readers is feeling a little nostalgic… These days the only thing that seems to happen in church is Holy Mass. I can remember a time when we used to enjoy going to Sunday evening devotions with the most splendid Benedictions. Why don’t we have those Benedictions anymore?
I can tell by your question that you are one of our senior citizens! Once the laws on fasting before Mass were relaxed in the 1960s it became possible to celebrate the Eucharist in the evening. Parish priests everywhere wanted to give people as many chances as possible to fulfil their Sunday obligation, so Sunday evening devotions were replaced by another Mass. After the Second Vatican Council, the old “Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament” was revised.
The 1973 rite Holy Communion and Eucharistic Worship Outside Mass gives directives for taking Holy Communion to the sick, distributing Holy Communion outside Mass, and for exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Exposition has several stages: [1] ExpositionThe Blessed Sacrament is exposed in the monstrance or ciborium, [2] Adoration We adore Jesus who is present in the sacred host, [3] BenedictionA priest or deacon may bless the people with the monstrance, and [4] Reposition The Blessed Sacrament is returned to the tabernacle. What changed with the 1973 Rite?
There was a shift in emphasis. While the 1973 document says we do well to adore Christ in the reserved sacrament, our devotions must always show clearly the relationship between the celebration of Mass and the reservation of the Blessed Sacrament. Jesus instituted the Eucharist “to be near us to feed, to heal and to comfort us” (paragraph 82). The Mass is much more important than exposition, so our Eucharistic adoration must not outshine the sacred liturgy.
We use the same number of candles as at Mass (not the old branch candlesticks) and we genuflect on one knee as at Mass (paragraphs 84-85). By the same token, the altar cloths and vestments should not be more splendid than those used for Mass.
I can remember being an altar server for the old-style Benediction that took less than
fifteen minutes! The 1973 document urges us
not to treat the Blessed Sacrament as a commodity, exposing it just to give a benediction. A longer period of adoration is always to be observed, and scripture should be read. Other devotions may take place during this time, or part of the Liturgy of the Hours may be celebrated while the Blessed Sacrament is exposed on the altar. So, what is supposed to happen now? There is no single method of adoring the real presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. In some parishes a lay minister may expose the host, beginning an hour or more of formal adoration.
When several people are present, there should be a short scripture reading. At the end of the time of adoration, the lay minister reposes the Blessed Sacrament. If a priest or deacon is leading a holy hour, something closer to the old Benediction may be done as follows: [1] Exposition The hymn O salutáris, or an alternative is sung while the priest exposes and incenses the host. [2] Adoration The holy hour continues with at least one scripture reading, perhaps a guided meditation, or a short reflection. Periods of silent meditation should be included. [3] BenedictionThe hymn Tantum ergo, or an alternative is sung while priest incenses the host. Then follows the chant “You have given them bread from heaven…” and the final prayer, after which the minister puts on the humeral veil and blesses the people with the monstrance or ciborium. [4] Reposition The Blessed Sacrament is returned to the tabernacle. Those with sharp eyes will see that I have left out the “Divine Praises”. These were a popular litany of adoration which used to be done between the Benediction and the Reposition. They are not compulsory and, if they are used, they should be part of the adoration, not a separate element on their own. I expect you will find a parish near you where people have regular times of adoration of the Blessed Sacrament ending with a solemn benediction.
I hope you will find it a prayerful opportunity to meditate on the Paschal Mystery.
he blessing of the Mother Assunta Training Centre, an
extension of Bienvenu Shelter, took place on 14 November. Mass was celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Duncan Tsoke at Holy Angels, Bez Valley, concelebrated by the Scalabrinian and Comboni priests. “We can’t do good to our neighbour
if there is no charity among us”. (Mother Assunta)
After the Mass, Auxiliary
Bishop Duncan and donors, Christien and Heilmich Hietink, from Holland and David Costine from the NGO, Round Table Council 63, Edenvale, cut the ribbon and officially opened the
house which was then blessed.
The Mother Assunta Training Centre promotes self-sustainability through empowerment programs for the most vulnerable migrant and refugee women. It thereby creates new opportunities and positive inclusion within society.
Bishop Duncan commended the Scalabrinian Sisters saying the work they have done since their arrival in the Archdiocese, is visible.
“Whatever you do, do not take for granted. Some of the work you have done has been through people helping financially and otherwise, all supporting in different ways and
Blessing of Mother Assunta Training Centre – an extension of Bienvenu Shelter
Auxiliary Bishop Duncan Tsoke, auxiliary to Archbishop Buti Tlhagale, celebrated the annual Chancery staff thanksgiving Mass on the First Friday 1 December which was also World AIDS day.
Thanks be to God: Annual Chancery Thanksgiving Mass
Bishop Duncan Tsoke blesses the Mother Assunta Training Centre
we are grateful for that,” he said. “We pray through Blessed
Mother Assunta Marchetti that we have the means in which to resource this very important mission in order for us to be a sign of life and hope and to serve many more women in need,” he said.
Sr Maria de Lurdes Lodi Rissini, David Costine, Bishop Duncan Tsoke, Christien
Hietink and Sr Marivane Chiesa
WE NEED MORE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE LITURGY
You are welcome to send questions directly to
Fr Plastow.POSTAL ADDRESS:
PO Box 46876, Glosderry, 7702,
FAX NUMBER:+27(0)11 402 6406
T
ake note of the signs of God in your life,” Auxiliary Bishop
Duncan urged Chancery staff and reminding them that in an everchanging world God is constant, everlasting.
He said that Chancery staff, himself included, should give thanks for their work and pray for the under- and unemployed. The Chancery staff is small, each knows the other and the whole works well
to the advantage of all. “Thank you for your work,” said Bishop Duncan and asked that staff pray for him and all the priests of the archdiocese.
Mass was celebrated in the sisters’ chapel of what was the Newcastle Dominicans’ convent and school, St Rose, next door to St Patrick, La Rochelle. It later became the Catholic Bible College.
Mass was followed by a lunch
served in what was the refectory of the old convent. Fr Ivaldo Bettin and Sr Maria of Pastoral care cooked the meat purchased by Lisa Avery from contributions by all the staff. See more pics pg 8. Judy Stockill
warm welcome was extended to about 400 pilgrims from Johannesburg
by parishes throughout KwaZulu Natal.
The Johannesburg pilgrims are by far the biggest group and were split into small groups for feasibility and smooth operation purposes. There was a long bus drive which was highlighted with a stop at the Mariannhill Monastery where a Mass was celebrated by Fr Kevin Mapsumo CMM.
The liturgy was animated by the energetic and angelic voices of
parish after the mission where we were served with a scrumptious lunch. Rev Deacon, Sibusiso Mkhize led a catechesis session for all the pilgrims where they were taught about the sacrament of marriage and why it is important to discern with your partner and deliberate on serious matters, especially around culture and faith differences before tying the knot.
References of what the Church outlines according to the Canon Law were also outlined.Kati Dijane, one of the pilgrims from St Nicholas in Daveyton
young people from St Philip Neri, Moletsane. Fr Kevin applauded the group after Mass and said their singing during Mass helped him to have a different encounter with God. Pilgrims were bussed to their respective dioceses where they are currently hosted by families. Today our programme started with Mass at St Anne’s, Umzinto.
We then visited the old and frail in the community, as part of our works of mercy, as encouraged by Pope Francis. All the families we visited were presented with grocery hampers from pilgrims and clothing
Parish Days before the event
A
Purpose of the MWYD is to unite Catholic young people from Southern Africa to celebrate their Christianity, community and unity while experiencing the chosen theme of “young people, faith and vocations.”
that were collected by local youth when they were preparing for this occasion. We headed back to the
Kananelo Motsoeneng, Ayanda Bindela and Palesa Ntombela.
receding the Mini World Youth Day was the ‘Days in the
Parishes’. The days took place from the 4 December. I was part of the group that was assigned to St Francis Xavier, Dassenhoek.The area is plagued by electricity outages and water cuts. On two of the three nights we were in the neighbourhood, the electricity was cut whilst we were wrapping up around six at the church.We started with stations of the cross from Kwacutshwayo Primary School where the parish celebrated Mass prior to moving to their current location.Mass was celebrated by parish p
riest, Fr Matthew Ngubane and visiting priest, Fr Mthembeni Mntambo. They were assisted by Br Mlondi Nzama who is a seminarian at St John Vianney.Br Zipho Ngwenya and Zandi Mabaso were celebrating their birthdays and received a special blessing.
Also, in our midst were transitional deacons and other seminarians from the Mariannhill diocese.After lunch, young people took part in the catechetical sessions. They also engaged in various games eliciting curious stares from passers-by.They got their hands dirty, wiping chairs, cleaning the church and sacristy, as well as the priest’s house.
On the second day, we gathered at our host parish to have breakfast and were transported to the Mariannhill Monastery. Upon arrival, Mass was celebrated by seven priests with the national youth chaplain, Fr Mthembeni Dlamini as the chief celebrant. Pilgrims from the Pretoria Archdiocese joined in the celebration.
In his sermon, Deacon Rev Lindelwa said friendship with Jesus is based on unconditional love. “He is the type of friend who is always online to listen to our stories. He will never block you and you will never see blue ticks with no response,” he said.A tour was given of the monastery which was founded in 1882 by Abbot Francis Pfanner, where its rich history was explained. Areas of interest such as the Mariannhill
Museum, the abbey which is made out of corrugated iron and is also the smallest in the world, with two roofs, as well as the cemetery were visited.
The Secretary General of the Southern African Bishops’ Conference, Sr Hermenegild Makoro also welcomed the pilgrims saying: “Through your exuberance, we are already feeling the MWYD vibe. We wish you growth and grace. May you become proud Catholics.”“Some young people have complained that the monastery is nice but was just too quiet, so today the monastery community will welcome the noise,” said Fr Mthembeni.
All in all, the MWYD was an opportunity for Catholics of this conference, and beyond, to share their gifts, talents, cultures and to learn from one another.On the third day, we bade our families goodbye and headed to St Joseph’s Cathedral for the Commissioning Mass. Bishop Pius Dlungwane of Mariannhill and Archbishop William Slattery of Pretoria celebrated Mass with Fr Mthembeni Dlamini and some 25 priests concelebrating. They were assisted by a transitional deacon and seminarians.Each diocesan representative was given a memento by the youth of the diocese.Lerato Mohone
Lebo we Majahe
P
More parish days
described her experience as “spiritually fulfilling, because I was reminded of how fortunate I am for my health and was reminded that we should always count our blessings because other people are not as fortunate as we are.”“Our group is a lovely bunch and I hope that going back home we’ll still maintain the friendship,” she added. Lebo we Majahe
Pilgrims with the women who were preparing the meals for pilgrims
he much-anticipated MWYD which took place in early
December as a huge success.The event was a festival of
prayer, devotion, song, and dance. The closing Mass was celebrated by Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Peter Wells.
General Major, Victoria Metuka from SAPS presented on substance and drug abuse, showing their different images and their impact in the community.
Tinyiko Ndaba and Sello Mashaba from Counter Trafficking in Persons said almost 800 000 people are trafficked yearly. They gave signs on what look out for.
Pilgrims frequented the adoration chapel where they sat in quiet prayer and they also used the opportunity for confessions. The healing service was preceded by adoration and benediction led by Fr Karabo Baloyi from Pretoria’s Archdiocese. Sr Phuthunywa Siyali from the Holy Cross sisters read some of the prayers.
This was an emotional time for many young people which I translated as “The Mighty One has done great things for me and holy is His name” moment.
The exuberance with which Fr Luthando Xhamlayo from Mthatha led the praise and worship roused me from deep sleep. In my disorientation, I kept asking myself, ‘Who are these people?’
One of the frustration for pilgrims was that once in, people were not allowed to go out. Cardinal Wilfrid said that was because he was not ready answer the following question from a parent: “Why did you not take care of my child?”I am honoured and blessed to have been “part of this story” – which was one of the payoff line of this MWYD. This gave me a fresh perspective on the line I believe in one holy, Catholic and apostolic church.
One is supposed to experience some discomfort, sleep deprivation, kneeling directly on the floor, the
A deep, emotional time for many at Mini World Youth Day T
Cardinal Wilfrid Napier
‘bread diet’ and suffering from flu because of the rainy weather and plummeting temperatures during pilgrimages and we did – but it was all worth it.
The maturity of elders and leaders and the enthusiasm of youth was evident during all events. Durban has indeed raised the bar from the production to the programme.
When I arrived home I called my adopted family who hosted me before the conference to express my gratitude once again. My ‘mother’ told me that she was hoping I was going to call her and tell her when we would be leaving as she had ordered cakes for the pilgrims and wanted to see me off.I am grateful for the opportunity and can join Mary in saying, “The Mighty One has done great things for me, holy is His name.” Lerato Mohone
Praying the Rosary
Seminarians during the entrance processionCaption
Sr Juliana Abioye addressing the Johannesburg pilgrims
Johannesburg pilgrims with Archbishop Buti Tlhagale
Entertaining the crowd
Bishop Victor Phalana.
Themes at Mini World Youth Day ceremony. Photos by Sheldon Reddiar Photography.https://www.facebook.com/sheldonreddiarphotography
Entrance procession
Justin Nanak performing at the MWYD theme song
Bishops after the closing Mass
Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Peter Wells giving his final blessing.
The St Cecilia sodality of Kath-orus in the East Rand cele-brated the feast of St Cecilia at
Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Thokoza on Wednesday, 22 November with Mass. Parishes that attended the celebration were: St Alberts’ – Vosloorus; St Joseph’s – Mokoena; Holy Trinity – Kwanele; St Francis of Assisi – Tsietsi and Our Lady of
The parish of Our Lady of
Mount Carmel, Thokoza
celebrated the ordination
of Rev Deacon Paulos Tebello
Mochesa on Sunday 9 November.
The ordination ceremony
which was held at the Cathedral
of Christ the King on 12 March
and presided over by Archbishop
Buti Tlhagale, was a culmination
of a five-year intensive training
period that included a three-year
study of the bible.
Various sodalities of the parish
showered the Rev Deacon
Mochesa with gifts of clothing,
gift vouchers and a cake – seeing
that the celebration coincided with
his birthday.
Expressing his gratitude, he
said: “I would like to convey my
sincere thankfulness to the congre-
gation of Our Lady of Mount
Carmel, my family and the sister
parishes of Eden Park for their
support throughout my spiritual journey to becoming a deacon”.
He added that he felt he was re-
armed with spiritual strength after
overcoming insurmountable odds
to become a deacon. “It was a
journey worth embarking on”, he
said. The Rev Deacon described
his ordination into Deaconate as a
milestone in his dedicated reli-
gious life as a Catholic. A sumptu-
ous meal and soft drinks for the
congregation at a beautifully deco-
rated church hall formed part of
the celebration. Abel Dlamini
The Catholic Women’s League
celebrated the enrolments of
four new members. Two were
awarded their 10-year badges –
Daphye Phasha and Constance
Bayibayi; 25-year badges went to
Nyana Ramaboa and Kefiloe
Moloi and the 30-year one went to
Nobesuthu Skhosana.
This took place at St Mary
Queen of the Apostles, Mun-
sieville on 19 November. Mass
was celebrated by parish priest, Fr
Taelo Kimane who encouraged the
ladies to believe in themselves
and to use the gifts that the Lord
bless has blessed them with.
The ladies who were enrolled
are, from left: Tebogo Ntuli, Neo
Ramogale, Molly Diale and Nkele
Wesinyana.Tebogo Tsimane
Introduction, enrolments and dedicated service
St Cecilia Day Celebration
Above: St Cecilia sodality members with lit candles lead the procession into the Church before mass in celebration of St Cecilia Feast.
Below: Lining up before having their gowns blessed are, second from left, Seitebatso Phakathi, Jabulile Dlamini and Gloria Motshoane. They are flanked by the secretary of the sodality at parish, Cecilia Tshabalala, far left and Chair-person Moses Mehala, together with parish priest Fr Innocent Mabheka
Mount Carmel – Thokoza. Parish priest Fr Innocent
Mabheka was the celebrant at the Mass that began at 6pm after he had administered the sacrament of confession. Moses Mehala, chair-person of the sodality at the parish, captured the sentiment of the con-gregation as he narrated a brief his-tory of St Cecilia. Fr Mabheka listened as members of the sodality recounted the problems they face in the sodality.
He encouraged and advised them to improve on the positives and also to always seek restoration of divine mercy whenever they experienced a spiritual recession.
In reference to the evening’s Gospel in the book of Luke, the priest urged members of the sodality, that is deeply rooted in the vision of St Cecilia, to use their God-given talent effectively and ‘become revolutionaries of a good cause in the church’.
Praising the sodality, the epitome of music in the Catholic Church, he said their singing should have a huge influence in the spiritual nourishment of congregation.
Chairperson Moses Mehala said despite the poor turnout, perhaps because of a drizzle, the evening Mass to celebrate the feast was in all likelihood worth a while. He added that the feast would be celebrated annually at different parishes on a rotational bases.
Abel Dlamini
Our Lady of Mount Carmel celebrate Deaconate
Small Christian Community of Sotho Section in Thokoza gather around
the Rev Deacon Mochesa to sing a dedicated song for him
The congregation steps forward to shower Rev Deacon Mochesa with
gifts. Next to him is wife Christina – a Sacred Heart sodality member
The Rev Deacon Mochesa, third from right, is pictured with parish priest
Fr Innocent Mabheka – third from left together with the Extraordinary
Ministers of the Holy Communion from neighbouring parishes who came to
wish him well in the ministry
Some 70 youths and 84 young adults were
confirmed in the Maronite Church,
Mulbarton, on November 17. Mass was jointly
celebrated by
Confirmation at Mulbarton
Archbishop Buti Tlhagale, Father Maurice Chidiac
(superior of the Maronite Church of South Africa)
and parish priest, Fr Jean Yammine.Photo: Joe Enriques
Below: Sr Maria de Lurdes Lodi Rissini andFr Ivaldo Bettin cs
Little Eden festive celebrationsFather Christmas arrived a
little early at Little Eden
handing specially wrapped gifts
to all 300 residents.
The home thanked the
following sponsors who made it
all possible:
• Emperors Palace and their
suppliers for providing lunch
for all residents
• Clariant Southern Africa (PTY)
Ltd for sponsoring gifts to 180
residents at Domitilla and
Danny Hyams Home
• GHH Mining Machines (Pty)
Ltd for sponsoring some gifts
and monetary donation towards
the Domitilla and Danny
Hyams Home Christmas Party.
Holy Rosary Primary School’s Foundation Phase recently put on a nativity play, reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas.
18th priesthood anniversary
Chancery Christmas Celebrations
Bishop Duncan Tsoke recently celebrated his 23rd priestly anniversary at St Joseph’s, Actonville. He is seen here with Robert and Mahadi Buthelezi from the Church of the Resurrection, Bryanston
Celebrating 23rd priestly anniversary
Fr Emil Blaser OP
celebrated his
golden jubilee of
priesthood on 8 December
with a small group of
friends. This intimate
celebration, with some special
people who have walked with
Fr Emil over the past 50 years, was
organised by the sisters and staff
at St Mary’s retirement home in
Hyde Park. It was attended by 10
Dominican priests and sisters and
old friends, people he has known
over the years. Fr Mark James OP,
who delivered the sermon, spoke
of his life with Fr Stan Muyebe OP
proposing a toast.
Many bishops who were at the
Mini World Youth Day in Durban
were interviewed and they
extended congratulatory messages
which were broadcast live on
Radio Veritas. Cardinal Wilfrid
Napier reiterated his congratulatory
message in his address to the
pilgrims at the Mini World Youth
Day.
“I did not expect this, so it was a
Fr Emil celebrates 50 years as a priest
Running for charity
lovely surprise,” said Fr Emil,
who was formerly the Vicar for
Communications.
He received many calls from
jubilant listeners of Radio Veritas
lauding him for the work he is
doing.
Fr Emil said he feels ‘unworthy’
of the accolades and is humbled
by these kind gestures. Working in
the media as a priest is one of his
highlights as it is a powerful
means of communication.
He is grateful for, despite his
limitations, having been utilised
by God to do parish work,
singing, broadcasting and so much
more, he added.Lerato Mohone
Fr Thabo Motshegwa, parish priest at the Cathedral recently cele-brated his 18th priesthood anniversary.
Honouringour police
Aw onderful day was held at
Our Lady Of Victories,
Doornkop where the Justice and
Peace Department honoured
Constable Mzwakhe Xazi, a
policeman from the Doornkop
police station who works with
the church and the community.
He was honoured for his good
work and trustworthiness.
Landi Khumalo, presented the
award on behalf of the Justice
and Peace department.By Fikile Ndima
Back: Sr Tarsycja Groblica, Emma Zemura, Rose Rubushe, Veronica Peterson Front: Tebogo Masunyane, Nthabiseng Moloi and Charmaine Khawula.
From left: Kamohelo Mokoena, Kamogelo Mogale, Matheepe Malunga and Thami Malunga of St Philip Neri, Moletsane ran 21KM in the Soweto Marathon on 5 November in a cause to help the Society of St Vincent de Paul to collect clothes, toys and food
parcels for families in need.
Kamohelo Mokoena and Kamogelo Mogale ahead of the race.
L-R: Sue Greyling, Charmaine Makhubela, Sr Tarsycja Groblica, Charmaine Khawula, Veronica Mofokeng, Veronica Peterson, Annastacia Mphuthi. In front: Emma Zemura.
