Tzaneen Catholic

DAY 2 A MAN OF WORK

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 19:12:00 +0000

True to his motto, “Pray and Work”, Benedict believed in honest, hard work as a way of glorifying God and helping people in the community. As Principal of Nweli Primary School, Benedict was wholly dedicated to the work of education. One day a teacher tried to skip his lesson preparation for the following week by going to the bank in Sibasa to withdraw his salary. On noticing his absence, Benedict got in his car, chased after him, stopped the taxi and made the teacher return with him to school to complete his preparation. That done, Benedict then drove the teacher to the bank.

In his relationship with his learners, Benedict was always motivated by love. He encouraged them to be diligent, independent and self-reliant. Those unable to pay school fees were invited to work in his garden to earn their school fees. Benedict would visit the families of absentees to find out the reason and to see if he could offer help. With his own children, he worked in his vegetable garden and planted trees – something quite unusual for school teachers, headmasters, or educated people in general.

Benedict exercised good stewardship by using his money wisely and well. He was the first in his village to build a brick house with savings from his salary and from selling vegetables and fruit from his garden and orchard. Through careful budgeting, he purchased a car, TV set and telephone, but because of envy, some people suspected him of making use of zombies (corpses supposedly brought back to life by witchcraft).

Word of God

It will be as when a man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted his possessions to them; to one he gave five talents, to another two; to a third, one – to each according to his ability. Then he went away. Immediately the one who received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five. Likewise, the one who received two made another two. (Matthew 25, 14-15)

Deepening of Faith

Nazareth, O House of the “Carpenter's son”, it is here that we would like to understand and celebrate the severe and redemptive law of human labour; here restore awareness of the nobility of work; here remember that work is not an end in itself, but its freedom and its nobility come, as well as its economic value, from values which are its goal; how we would like to finally welcome here all workers of the world and show them their great model, their divine brother, the Prophet of all their just causes, Christ our Lord. (Pope Paul VI, Address in Nazareth, 5 January 1964)

Reflection Am I doing my job/work as well as I can?

Do I feel ashamed when doing manual work?

Prayer People go forth to do their work, to their labour till the evening falls.

How varied are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you have made them all;

The earth is full of your creatures. (Psalm 104, 23-24)

Prayer

DAY 1 BAPTISED IN CHRIST

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 19:07:00 +0000

The eldest of five children, Tshimangadzo Samuel Benedict Daswa was born on 16 June 1946, in the village of Mbahe near Thohoyandou. Growing up in the African Traditional Religion, he belonged to the Bakali clan of the Lemba tribe, who regard themselves as descendants of the Jews. They live mainly among the Venda tribe but are also found among the Northern Sotho and Tsonga tribes in the Province of Limpopo, South Africa. As a high school student Tshimangadzo took instruction in the Catholic faith from his catechist, the late Father Benedict Risimati. He was greatly influenced by this man of deep faith and as a result chose Benedict for his baptismal name. He made his own the motto of St Benedict, “Pray and Work”, which inspired his whole life as a Christian. On 21 April 1963 he was baptised by Father Augustine O'Brien MSC and received his First Holy Communion. Three months later he was confirmed by Rt Rev Abbot/Bishop F C Van Hoeck OSB, Bishop of Pietersburg Diocese. After completing High School, Benedict trained as a Primary School teacher.

Word of God

We were indeed buried with him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in newness of life. For if we have grown into union with him through a death like his, we shall also be united with him in the resurrection. (Romans 6,4-5)

Deepening of Faith

…since Baptism is a true entry into the holiness of God through incorporation into Christ and the indwelling of his Spirit, it would be a contradiction to settle for a life of mediocrity, marked by a minimalist ethic and a shallow religiosity. To ask catechumens:"Do you wish to receive Baptism?" means at the same time to ask them: "Do you wish to become holy?" It means to set before them the radical nature of the Sermon on the Mount:"Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect" (Mt 5,48). (NMI 3)

Reflection What does the baptism I have received mean to me?

Do I really wish to become holy, as God is holy?

Prayer You guide me along the right path for the sake of your name.

Even when I walk through a dark valley,

I fear no harm for you are at my side;

your rod and your staff give me courage.

I will dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come.

(Psalm 23, 2b-4.6)

Prayer

Novena devoted to Blessed Benedict Daswa

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 19:01:00 +0000

PRAYER

For the Canonization of Bl. Benedict Daswa

(To be recited at the end of each day’s Novena Prayer)

O Blessed Trinity,

I believe that you dwell in me through my baptism.

I love You, I adore You and I worship You.

I give you thanks for your Servant, Benedict,

Whom you chose to bear witness unto death for his faith

In Jesus Christ, my Saviour and my Lord.

Almighty Father, you filled the heart of your Servant, Benedict,

With great love and zeal in building up your kingdom.

You gave him the courage and the strength

To stand up for his faith without fear, even the fear of death.

Loving God, keep me free from all deeds of darkness.

Protect me from evil spirits and the powers of evil.

Make me a true apostle of life in my family and in society.

May your light, O Lord, shine upon me and through me.

Lord Jesus, through the intercession of your Servant, Benedict,

I ask that I may follow his example

Of always being ready to forgive in a Christian spirit.

You know all about my many problems and worries

And my great fears when I look to the future.

I draw strength and courage from the life of your Servant.

I come to you now, Lord, and through intercession

I ask for this very special favour… if it is according to your will.

Help me always to follow the good example of Benedict.

By daily prayer and regular attendance at Church,

Help me to love You, O Lord, above all things

(To be recited at the end of each day's Novena Prayer)

And to love others as you love me.

Amen.

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 08:17:00 +0000

Important moments in the journey of life of Bishop Hugh Slattery MSC

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 11:41:00 +0000

The late Bishop Emeritus of Tzaneen Hugh Patrick Slattery, MSC,was born on the 10th of March 1934 in Nenagh in Co Tipperary, Ireland.
He joined the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (MSC) in August 1951 and entered the MSC novitiate at Myross Wood, Cork in Ireland. He made his first profession the following year and was ordained a priest on 16 July 1958.
Soon after his ordination, he was sent to South Africa, where he was appointed to the Diocese of Port Elizabeth. From 1961 to 1966, he studied at the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa and graduated with a BA Honours degree, majoring in African Studies.
In 1966, Fr Hugh Slattery MSC took up an appointment at Lumko Missiological Institute in Queenstown. He became Rector of the Institute in 1973, a position he held until 1980, when he was elected the regional superior of the MSCs in Southern Africa.
On 22 June 1984, he was appointed Bishop-elect of the Diocese of Louis Trichardt-Tzaneen. His episcopal ordination took place on 30 September 1984 in Dwars River Parish.
On the 28th of January 2010, after 25 years of serving the Diocese of Tzaneen as its bishop, he retired and he continued with pastoral work at Musina Parish for three years and thereafter lived and served at Ave Maria Pastoral Centre, Mooketsi in the Tzaneen Diocese.
He moved to Pretoria in December 2023 and passed away peacefully at Holy Cross Home, Pretoria, on Sunday afternoon 6th of October 2024.
Bishop Hugh Slattery's death is predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Julia, by his sister Margaret O'Brien (Ballycommon) and by his brother William (Billy) (Ballyanny).
He is deeply mourned by his family: especially his sister Clare RSM (Nenagh), his brother James (Jimmy) (Ballyanny), his nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews; and by his friends in Ireland; mourned also by his fellow Missionaries of the Sacred Heart and Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart,and by all in the Diocese of Tzaneen and in SACBC region.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Funeral Services

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 15:50:00 +0000

Bishop Emeritus Hugh Patrick Slattery MSC:1934-2024

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 12:10:00 +0000

Bishop Hugh SLattery MSC passed away peacefully at Holy Cross Home, Pretoria on Sunday afternoon 6th of October 2024. May the Lord in his mercy grant him eternal peace in the holy name of Jesus Christ, Amen

Bishop Emeritus Hugh Parrick Slattery was born on the 10th of March 1934 in Nenagh in Co Tipperary, Ireland.

Feeling the call to the priesthood he joined the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (MSCs) and was ordained a priest in 1958.

In 1984 he was appointed and ordained the Bishop of Louis-Trichardt- Tzaneen.
On the 28th of January 2010 he retired and went to live in a small community to continue pastoral work at Musina and later was based at Ave Maria Pastoral Centre.

He moved to Pretoria in December 2023 and passed away peacefully at Holy Cross Home, Pretoria on Sunday afternoon 6th of October 2024.

His missionary life was full and varied.

When the Lumko Missiological Institute was set up the MSCs were approached to provide qualified staff and Fr Hugh Slattery was missioned there. The Institute developed and provided courses in local languages and social anthropology for new missionaries. Training was also provided for catechists, and other departments were added to deliver training in pastoral and biblical studies. The Institute produced many practical training materials for various lay ministries which have been widely used around the world. In 1978, Fr Hugh Slattery co-edited Pastoral Orientation in a Changing World.

Bishop Hugh was also instrumental in the writing of the book HIV/AIDS A Call to Action – Responding as Christians, was inspired by the positive response he received to a Pastoral Letter he wrote on the issue. The Pastoral Letter received praise from the then Archbishop of Durban, Wilfrid Napier. In the foreword to the book, he writes: “The Pastoral Letter by Bishop Hugh Slattery is a most valuable instrument in the battle not only to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS, but especially to ensure that the followers of Jesus reach out in love and compassion to those who are suffering from AIDS … Bishop Slattery’s approach will make it possible for many more Catholics to know the Church’s teaching and live it. In that way they will not only make a telling impact on the spread of HIV/AIDS, but also rebuild their marriages and family life on the values of the Gospel.”

He also played an important role in having other materials published but his crowning glory was the promotion of the cause resulting in the eventual beatification of Blessed Benedict Daswa on 13 September 2015. The now Bishop Emeritus, Hugh Slattery MSC, in his book on Benedict Daswa – South Africa’s First Martyr, writes “Nourished by prayer, the Word of God and the regular reception of the Sacraments, Benedict was deeply involved in the life of the parish. He was full of enthusiasm for the spread of the gospel through building up strong, local Catholic communities.”
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Like the seed buried in the ground, you have produced the harvest of eternal life for us; make us always dead to sin and alive to God. Benedict Daswa Pray for us. Amen.

William Banda (1986-2024)

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 08:09:00 +0000

William Banda was born on 31st May, 1986 in Lusaka, Zambia.He was baptised and confirmed at St Peter’s Parish in Garden Township in Lusaka, where St Patrick’s priests ministered. He was the firstborn in a family of seven. After completing primary and secondary school, young William applied to join St Patrick’s Missionary Society. After initial formation he continued to the society formation house Kwa Patrick in South Africa and studied philosophy at St Joseph’s Theological Institute, Cedara. Following his philosophical studies he undertook his First Missionary Assignment (FMA) in the Diocese of Tzaneen in South Africa. He moved to Kenya to pursue his theological studies at Tangaza College in Nairobi, William was ordained as a priest at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus in Lusaka, Zambia by Emeritus Archbishop George Telesphore Mpundu on 28 May 2016.

Thereafter he was appointed to work in South Africa in the Diocese of Tzaneen.

From 2016 to the time of his death William ministered with prayerful humility, diligence, wisdom and courage. He was a loving priest, approachable and friendly.

William was shot by an unknown man who entered the church during morning prayer and his wounds caused his death. He met his death in the line of duty, praying and about to celebrate the Holy Eucharist; indeed, his life was a sacrifice to others to the end.

May William rest in peace.

THE GRAVE OF FR WILLIAM BANDA

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 06:50:00 +0000

THE FUNERAL OF FR WILLIAM BANDA SPS

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 06:47:00 +0000

THE FAREWELL FOR FR WILLIAM BANDA SPS

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 07:49:00 +0000

POLICE REPORT ON THE MURDER OF FR WILLIAM BANDA

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 07:46:00 +0000

Media Statement of South African Police Service

Office of the Provincial Commissioner Limpopo

POLOKWANE - The South African Police Service in Limpopo has launched an extensive manhunt following the appalling and deeply disturbing murder of a 38-year-old Roman Catholic Church priest in Tzaneen on Wednesday, 13 March 2024, at about 07:00.

The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has expressed profound shock and dismay over this heinous act and has immediately ordered a thorough and swift investigation into the murder.

The identity of the deceased, who was fatally shot by an unidentified assailant inside the church in Aqua-Park, is being withheld pending notification of the next of kin.

Initial findings suggest that following a morning prayer session with members of the church, the victim proceeded to the changing room where he was followed by an unknown male suspect. Tragically, the suspect shot the priest twice in the head before fleeing the scene.

Upon receiving the distress call, both the Police and Emergency Medical Services responded promptly. The victim was swiftly transported to a nearby hospital, where he was tragically pronounced dead upon arrival.

In light of this shocking incident, the Provincial Commissioner has tasked the Murder and Robbery Unit to lead the investigation and apprehend the perpetrator responsible for this deplorable crime.

A case of murder has been opened, and at this stage, the motive behind this tragic incident remains unknown.

We appeal to members of the community who may possess any information related to the incident to come forward and assist the investigation.

You are urged to contact Lieutenant Colonel Richard Boshomane at 079 894 5501 or Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola at 082 749 2233.

Alternatively, individuals can report to their nearest police station or reach out to the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Rest assured that all information provided will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.

Copyright (https://www.saps.gov.za/copyright.php)

Fr WILLIAM BANDA

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Sun, 17 Mar 2024 16:01:00 +0000

Sign of Peace during Blessed Daswa feast day Mass

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 15:17:00 +0000

Homily Blessed Daswa Pilgrimage 2024 by Archbishop Dabula Mpako

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 09:07:00 +0000

As we celebrate this feast of Blessed Benedict Daswa, we are still at the beginning of a new year. For many people, the beginning of a new year is a time to make resolutions about how they intend to live their lives in the coming year. When followed through, this is a good practice for it contributes to conscious and purposeful living, something that is required for a meaningful human and Christian life.

Now as we position ourselves spiritually to enter fully into this new year, we have today put before us the shining example of Blessed Benedict Daswa, to inspire us and to influence our Christian living in our daily lives.

His story is well known: He was a person of deep faith and a committed Christian. He took a particular interest in sharing this faith with others, especially the younger members of his community, as a Catechist. A committed schoolteacher and a community builder with a keen interest in promoting the common good of all and who, as a result, enjoyed respect in his community. A generous man who gave freely to the poor. Above all, he was known for his absolute honesty, truthfulness, and integrity. Even in dying, Blessed Benedict Daswa continued to give a wonderful testimony of faith in God. He did not hold the sins of those who killed him against them. The prayer said to have been on his lips as he was being killed was of abandoning his life to God: ‘Father, into your hands I commend my life…’

The readings chosen for this feast raise up three very important things about Christian living, things which Blessed Benedict Daswa exemplified beautifully in his life.

The first reading from the book of Wisdom reminds us that an important aspect of our calling as Christians is to be PROPHETS, prophets of God in the world. This is a responsibility that is not easy to embrace because it is unsettling. We hear in the reading how people are plotting against the righteous person whom, because of his righteous behaviour, they experience as a reproach to their sinful ways. “Let us test him with insult and torture,” they say, “so that we may find out how gentle he is and make trial of his forbearance. Let us condemn him to a shameful death, for, according to what he says, he will be protected.”

But what does it mean to be a prophet? We ordinarily associate prophecy with the prediction or foretelling of things to come. But, in the Bible prophecy is most fundamentally about the present, about pointing out where God is in the present and what God is calling us to be and to do in the present. Prophecy is about the demands of God in the present.

For this reason, prophecy often takes the form of critiquing the status quo or the present situation which often falls short of what God desires. Hence to be a prophet often translates into being a critical voice and a critical presence. And we are reminded that faithfulness to the calling to be a prophet is something that inevitably goes with suffering: the suffering of being rejected, labelled, misrepresented, persecuted and, at times, killed. Blessed Benedict Daswa was a prophet. He faithfully stood for what his faith proclaimed and would not give in to any other beliefs that were opposed to what he believed as a Catholic Christian.

The second reading from the letter of St Paul to the Ephesians remind us of the spiritual qualities required for us to faithfully carry out our calling to be prophets of God in the world. We see these qualities displayed in a shining way in the life example of Blessed Benedict Daswa.

•A deep and strong faith: “Above all take the shield of faith, with which you can quench all the flaming darts of the Evil One.”

•Truthfulness and integrity: “Stand therefore, having fastened the belt of truth around your waist, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness.”

•Faithfulness to the Word of God: “Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

•Being an instrument of peace: “Shod your feet with the equipment of the gospel of peace.”

The Gospel chosen for this celebration provides the most fundamental spiritual quality required in us if we are to faithfully carry out the calling of being prophets of God in the world. We must be ready to die to our little selves and to allow God, and God’s plans and purposes, to take the central place in our lives. We must be ready to empty ourselves as Jesus did. Like the grain of wheat which must fall into the earth and die in order to bear much fruit, we must give up the desire to put ourselves at the centre and instead put God at the centre and fully surrender to God and to God’s will. It is thus that our lives become fruitful. We contribute to the establishment of the New Reign of God in the world. This is what Blessed Benedict Daswa did to the point of offering his life in witnessing to the New Reign of God.

Through this message, God is speaking to each one of us this morning as we contemplate the shining example of Blessed Benedict Daswa. We are taught about the spiritual qualities that should inform and shape the way we live our daily lives as Christian believers. And so, this celebration of the feast of Blessed Benedict Daswa ought not to be just about admiring and honouring him. Rather, the most meaningful way to honour him is to imitate him and to take him as a model for our faith living. And so,

•When tempted (in the course of this year) to give in to the desire for people’s approval and to compromise what we know to be true and right, and compromise ourselves in the process, may we remember Benedict Daswa and imitate his honesty, truthfulness, and integrity.

•When our faith in God grows weak and we become lukewarm in our faith living and lose interest in participating in the life of our church communities, may we remember Benedict Daswa and be inspired by his strong and unwavering faith and commitment.

•When we are tempted to act in selfish ways that do not promote the common good of all, be it in our places of work, or where we live, or even where we worship, let us remember Benedict Daswa and be inspired by his unselfishness and generosity and by his commitment to always promote the good of the community.

•When we are tempted to take revenge on those who have wronged us in one way or another, or when we find our hearts hardening up, refusing to forgive, and, instead, holding on to anger and bitterness, may we please remember Blessed Benedict Daswa who did not hold the sins of those who killed him against them, but instead offered everything to God.

Therefore, this pilgrimage must be for us not only a time to celebrate Blessed Benedict Daswa and to pray to God through his intercession. Rather, it should be for us a time of reflection and renewal in our own personal lives. It must be a time for us to examine ourselves and see where we stand at the present moment regarding our calling to be prophets of God in the world in which we live.

Therefore, may our participation in this pilgrimage mark an important deepening in our worship and service of God. May it bring us to a point in our lives where we worship God in spirit and in truth by being fully open to carry out His will for us and for the world, as Blessed Benedict Daswa did.

May Blessed Benedict Daswa continue to be a shining star which guides us on our way so that we may ever grow in becoming true and faithful disciples of Jesus Christ, who upon coming into the world said, “Here am I, Lord, I come to do your will.”

Blessed Benedict Daswa, pray for us!

Amen.

The Good News of Salvation announced by the Angels of God

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 07:09:00 +0000

The beginning of the new year is a joyful period which focuses on the birth of the Lord Jesus and on his early life. The main message is that Jesus, the Son of God, was born of the Virgin Mary so that humanity could be saved from sin so that the plan of God for humanity to enjoy eternal life forever at the end of time could be fulfilled.

But who were the first messengers of this Good News? They were not human messengers but angels of God, spiritual beings, created by God. They were given the task to be messengers of this Good News to humanity.

Let us look at the passage from Luke 1, 30 -32 which states that the messenger is Gabriel (Luke 1,26) the angel sent by God to Nazareth where Mary lived:

Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.

When Blessed Mary heard the message from the angel of God, she responded in humble faith and she conceived Jesus, the Son of God in her virgin womb.

At that time, Joseph, who was engaged to the Blessed Virgin Mary, decided to separate from Mary when he realised that Mary was with child. Now let us look at the passage from Matthew 1, 20-21

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

It was not a human person that told Joseph about the identity of the Child but an angel of God and thus with humble faith he changed his mind and took Mary home as his wife.

After the Blessed Virgin Mary had given birth to the Lord Jesus in Bethlehem, it was an angel that appeared to the shepherds and announced to them the birth of the Lord. We read about this in Luke 2, 9-11:

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

These angels, spiritual messengers of God, are not limited by space and time like us human beings. There are no material barriers which can prevent angels from doing what they are sent to do in this world. God makes sure that the Good News of Jesus Christ is announced to the world and no human power can prevent the angels from fulfilling this task.

After the crucifixion and burial when the Lord Jesus rose from the dead, we read in Luke 24, 2 - 5

They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, ³but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. ⁴While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. ⁵In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?

Again it was the angels who announced that Jesus is risen from the dead. God did not depend on human messengers to make the first announcement of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

This reflection is important for us who struggle in our Christian faith because of the many human voices that are continually sending out messages which stifle the Good News and often undermine Christ’s saving powerful love. This is particularly true today in this age of deliberate misleading social media influencers and the technological manipulation of artificial intelligence in creating fake news. And in addition to this worldly confusion, there is the problem of the silence of many good people who feel powerless. So many good people feel overwhelmed by the direction that the world is taking in removing Christian faith from public discourse and even by punishing and marginalising people who follow the moral teachings of the Lord Jesus in their work- places.

But we must take courage and not allow the worldly powers to undermine what we know to be true and eternal in the revelation of Jesus Christ. We must not allow the noise of the worldly and the silence of the good people to rob us of the greatest message and blessing made known to humanity, made known to us through the angels of God.

During this new year of 2024, let us listen anew to the message of salvation being announced to us from God through the angels, the heavenly hosts, which no worldly or human power can hide or silence. God makes sure that the Good News of Jesus Christ is announced to the world and no human power can prevent this message from reaching us. This encourages us never to give up on our faith and witness of life in the Spirit of Christ. It is a divine message which we have received and no worldly power, no matter how great, can silence it.

Let us listen to the song of the angelic hosts and the response of the shepherds in Luke 2,14-15:

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.”

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

May the Lord confirm this divine message in your life, wipe away your sins and bless you with the peace of the Lord Jesus who is risen from the dead, now and forever.

Bishop Joao Rodrigues

BLESSED DASWA FEAST DAY CELEBRATION ON 1 FEBRUARY 2024

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 14:57:00 +0000

Bishop Joao Rodrigues met the late Pope Benedict XVI in September 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 10:25:00 +0000

Prayer for the repose of the soul of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Tue, 03 Jan 2023 13:34:00 +0000

Statement on the passing away of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 16:15:00 +0000

Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference

We learnt with sadness from the Apostolic Nuncio in Southern Africa this morning about the passing on of Pope Benedict the XVI. While he was inactive as Pope by the time of his death, his silent and prayerful support for the Church was a source of strength for Pope Francis and the Church as a whole. It was always heart-warming to see him on significant ecclesial events like the canonisation of saints and the creation of new Cardinals. We will miss his fatherly presence and his companionship in the life of the Church as a fellow pilgrim.

We remember him with a fondness for his humility. We recall his first words in Italian when he was elected Pope. “The Revs. Cardinals have elected me, humble servant of God”. Throughout his leadership as Pope, he lived according to this sentiment, always wanting to be obedient to the truth that he believed was above him and to which he must submit. In a gentle voice, he always extended the invitation to the truth that beckons us to higher levels of being and knowledge that come from the Revelation of God through Christ and the tradition of the Church. When he realised that he was no longer effective as a leader, he was humble enough to tender his resignation instead of staying on for his own status.

We also remember him for his clarity of thought in articulating the message of revelation and relating it to the situations of our time. Pope Benedict was a significant point of reference in understanding the major doctrines of the Church and how they link with the modern world. As a true Patristic, (expert on Church Fathers), he was able to decipher the teachings of the Fathers of the Church and to make them relevant for our time. While he is regarded as an intellectual, his writings and teachings had practical implications for spirituality and daily life.

The most relevant of his encyclicals for our time is Deus Caritas Est, in which he explains the nature of God as love, and how charity forms the basis of justice and which in turn addresses contemporary social problems. In this way, Pope Benedict reclaimed the relevance of faith for our time.

In Africa, we remember him for pursuing the idea of the second Synod for Africa conceived by his predecessor, St. John Paul II. In his Encyclical (Africae Munus), Pope Benedict invited Africans to embark on the mission of reconciliation, justice, and peace, the lack of which accounts for the ills that pervade the continent. He further proposed practical suggestions of what needs to be done towards this end. Like Pope Francis’ inclusive invitation to engage in the journey of synodality, Pope Benedict invited all members of the Church at all levels to contribute to communion and peace in the Church and in society.

This lack of peace is not something that is true for the African continent only but also for the whole world if the present global instability is anything to go by. Benedict was truly the Pope of our time, and we are poorer without his live continued inspiration. Nevertheless, we thank God for the person of Pope Benedict for the example of his faith and commitment to the practical application of the truths of faith for the common good. As he viewed himself as a simple servant of God, now that this side of his life has reached its end, we pray that he may enjoy eternal happiness with his Master and may his soul rest in peace.

+Sithembele Sipuka

SACBC President

31 December 2022

CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS FOR THE NEW YEAR 2023

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 16:05:00 +0000

“And going into the house, they saw the Child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshipped Him” Matthew 2:11

On this Golden Jubilee Year 2022 of the Diocese of Tzaneen,

we wish you the blessing of peace this Christmas and health for the new year 2023

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Mary the Dawn, Christ the Perfect Day;

Mary the Gate, Christ the Heavenly Way!

Mary the Root, Christ the Mystic Vine;

Mary the Grape, Christ the Sacred Wine!

Mary the Wheat-Sheaf, Christ the Living Bread;

Mary the Rose-Tree, Christ the Rose blood-red!

Mary the Font, Christ the Cleansing Flood;

Mary the Chalice, Christ the Saving Blood!

Mary the Temple; Christ the Temple's Lord;

Mary the Shrine, Christ the God adored!

Mary the Beacon, Christ the Haven's Rest;

Mary the Mirror, Christ the Vision Blest!

Mary the Mother, Christ the Mother's Son.

Both ever blest while endless ages run.

Amen.

PRAYER CAMPAIGN FOR SOUTHERN AFRICA

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 09:15:00 +0000

We, your Bishops, invite you, Brothers and Sisters, to join with us in reciting this prayer daily in your homes, schools, at gatherings and at the end of Mass especially on Sundays. We ask that this prayer campaign be launched on the solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady – 21 August – until further notice.

Merciful Father,

send forth your Spirit upon us the people of Southern Africa.

May we hear anew the voice of Jesus Christ,

inviting us to walk with him across the turbulent waters of our time:

“Courage, it is I. Do not be afraid.” (Matthew 14,27).

By the grace of the Holy Spirit empower us

to bring comfort to the restless,

hope to those who despair,

healing to victims of violence,

and reconciliation where there is division.

May the Holy Spirit heal our families and communities.

Grant us ethical and courageous leaders

who put the good of the people before their own interest.

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit

we commit ourselves to speak the truth with courage,

to act justly in all we do,

to share with those in need

and always and everywhere to respect your gift of life

as we strive to proclaim the values of the Kingdom

in solidarity with all people of goodwill.

Amen.

SACBC STATEMENT ON THE ECONOMY IN SOUTH AFRICA

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 09:06:00 +0000

STATEMENT ON THE ECONOMY, HIGH LEVELS OF UNEMPLOYMENT AND COST OF LIVING

We are deeply concerned about the current high levels of unemployment and the rising cost of living, and how they disproportionately impact the lives of those at the margins of the economy. Both the high levels of unemployment and the cost of living are pushing more people into higher levels of household debt and deep poverty.

We denounce the continued preoccupation of our leaders with self-enrichment, party politics and factional battles

Amid this national crisis, it is sad that the focus of our political leaders remains fixed on narrow vested interests, and not on issues important to ordinary citizens, particularly the homeless, the unemployed, and the hungry. In the strongest terms possible, we denounce the continued preoccupation of our leaders with self-enrichment, party politics and factional battles at a time when the majority in this country are struggling to make ends meet.We make an urgent appeal to the government to initiate stronger measures to address the fuel and food price hike.

The need to regularly review the adverse impact of structural reforms on the poor

Another area of concern for us is how the most vulnerable in our country are the ones disproportionately bearing the social impacts of structural reforms and fiscal consolidation. While acknowledging the country’s need to urgently tackle the structural barriers to growth, we appeal to the government to introduce stronger social review mechanism so as to ensure that the austerity measures and other structural reforms are regularly reviewed not solely in terms of economic efficiency, but also in terms of their adverse impact on the poor. We ask that the social review of austerity measures be undertaken particularly with respect to basic education sector and health sector, having due regard to how budget cuts in such sectors re-enforce the two-tiered system of education and health services, with the poor condemned to sub-standard services while the rich continue to access a high standard of education and health services.We are scandalised by the government’s decision to increase the salaries of ministers, premiers, MECs and Members of Parliament by 3 per cent. This decision on salary increases for politicians shows that the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers and the government are insensitive to the plight of the poor and the financial hardships that many ordinary citizens are going through during this time.

The persistent gap between the rich and the poor

We are concerned about the persistent gap between the rich and the poor in our country and how it continues to impose great risk to the country’s economic growth and national security, creating conditions that could fuel violent unrest and social instability. Structural reforms to address the barriers to growth will not result in integral human development if there is an increased indifference to the country’s economic inequalities and the need for economic transformation, particularly with respect to land inequalities, mining and agriculture.

The vast disparities between the rural and urban economies

Of particular concern to us is the huge disparities between the rural and urban economies, which have resulted into the exclusion of the rural poor from equal and significant participation in the country’s economy. Our rural economies continue to suffer from serious neglect in terms of educational opportunities, viable municipalities, as well as public and private investments. Our rural youth find it hard to find jobs when the building of rural economies is grounded solely on mining, manufacturing and agricultural sectors which are themselves characterised by increased automation and exploitative labour system. We therefore call on the government to invest more in building thriving and self-sustaining rural economies, including self-sustaining village economies, that generate massive job creation for the rural youth, including those classified as skilled labour.

The Eskom Crisis, as well as Transnet’s failing rail infrastructure

We remind the government of the urgent need to address the load shedding and the Eskom Crisis, as well as Transnet’s failing rail infrastructure, both of which impact negatively on the lives of the poor and the prospects of economic recovery. In the interest of inclusion, the much talked about decentralisation of energy production into private business must include viable models of community-private partnerships that ensure significant economic benefits to the people in the rural areas, particularly with respect to large-scale solar and wind projects.

Parties need to work together in fixing failed municipalities

Considering that municipalities provide most of the services important for lifting people out of poverty, we make a strong call on all political parties in our country, particularly those deeply involved in unhealthy coalition politics, to set aside their political differences and work together in fixing failed municipalities. The fixing of financial and capacity issues in municipalities should include finding ways of building self-sustaining township economies and village-based economies grounded on small-scale producers and small business development.

All implicated in state capture and other forms of corruption must be held to account

It is clear to us that the benefits of growth are not adequately reaching the poor largely because of corruption, wasteful expenditure, incompetence, and mismanagement of government funds. We find this to be morally unacceptable. At a time when many people are struggling to make ends meet, we strongly denounce the failure of the government to address accountability issues and consequence management in such matters. The fight against corruption should be guided by the good of the nation, and not by blind loyalty to political parties and factional interests. We ask the government to make sure that those implicated in state capture and other forms of corruption are held to account irrespective of their affiliation to a particular political party and faction.

Stop the culture of cable theft, non-payment of municipal rates, vandalism, and damage to infrastructure

We remind all South Africans that each one of us has a responsibility to rebuild our country’s economy, including the municipalities and state-owned enterprises. This includes working together as communities to stop the culture of cable theft, non-payment of municipal rates, vandalism, and damage to infrastructure. We also call on the citizens to use whatever opportunity and means available to grow their own food and earn some income instead expecting everything from the government.

We ask God to continue healing our economy

We promise our prayers for families struggling with current economic hardships and call on those who can to be moved to do something about the plight of their brothers and sisters “so that by the power of the Holy Spirit they may abound in hope” (Romans 15:23). Sustained by the Risen Christ, our hope (1 Corinthians 15:12), we ask God to continue healing our economy so that it becomes a just economy that works for the benefit of all.

Pope Francis appoints Rev. Fr. John Selemela Auxiliary Bishop of Pretoria

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 13:40:00 +0000

The Holy Father, Pope Francis, has appointed as Auxiliary Bishop of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Pretoria the Rev. Fr. Masilo John Selemela, of the clergy of Tzaneen Diocese, currently Rector of the National Major Seminary of St. John Vianney in Pretoria, assigning him the titular See of Nachingwea, Tanzania.

Curriculum vitae

His Excellency Monsignor Masilo John Selemela was born on January 13, 1972 in Magoebaskloof, Diocese of Tzaneen.

After the preparatory year at St. Paul ‘s Minor Seminary (1991), he completed his studies in Philosophy at St. Peter’ s Major Seminary in Hammanskraal (1992-1993) and in Theology at St. John Vianney National Seminary of Pretoria (1994-1998).

He was ordained a priest on June 12, 1999.

He subsequently held the following positions: Parish Vicar of Our Lady of Peace in Makhado and Diocesan Vice-Director of Vocation and Youth Ministry (1999-2004);

Parish Vicar of Dwars River Parish and Diocesan Youth Chaplain, Diocesan Director of Vocation Ministry, Coordinator of the Education for Life program, Vice-President of the Diocesan Committee for Finance and Chaplain of St. Brendan’s School (2004-2006);

Licentiate and Doctorate in Dogmatic Theology at the Pontifical Urbaniana University and Diploma in Canonical Administrative Practice at the Dicastery for the Clergy (2006-2011);

Professor, Formator and Vice- Rector at the St. John Vianney National Major Seminary in Pretoria (2011-2019).

From 2019 up to now he has been Rector of the same Major Seminary.

Congratulations to Mgr. John Selemela and the Archdiocese of Pretoria.

St Brendan's Catholic Secondary School - Top School in the District

noreply@blogger.com (Bishop Joao) — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 16:57:00 +0000

St Brendan's Catholic Secondary School is a Full-Service school offering a service mainly to young learners in the local surrounding communities but also has boarding facilities and provides accommodation for learners from other districts.Being a Full-Service school means that the school also serves physically challenged learners.

The Catholic Church has an agreement with the Department of Basic Education therefore the school is recognised as a Catholic Public school on private property. In this 2022 year, the school has 773 pupils with 31 educators.Also between the school and boarding governing bodies, an additional 33 people are employed.

St Brendan's provides excellent opportunities and outcomes for its students, even achieving outstanding results. It is the top school in the circuit and one of the best schools in the Capricorn District and Limpopo Province.In the current climate of poor discipline and the problems schools are experiencing, St Brendan's still manages to keep a high standard of discipline and parents can be sure that their children are cared for holistically.

Last year the Grade 12 learners obtained a 97.1 % pass rate with 62.62% bachelor passes.The school obtained Position 1 in the Capricorn North District, the Sekgosese Cluster, the Catholic Schools as well as well as the Full-Service Schools.

The principal of St Brendan's, Ms Irene Modiba,holding the trophy,flanked by Mr Samuel Baloyi, motivational speaker and Bishop Rodrigues, holding the certificate which recognises St Brendan's as the top school of Capricorn North District.

For more information check the website:

http://stbrendansschool.co.za/