newsnewsA publication of the Catholic Archdiocese of 3 Destruction5 Vaal news6 Feeding the hungry Telephone (011) 402 6400 • www.catholicjhb.org.za JULY 2020 ADFr Arvin Tauro OCD distributes Holy Communion at Our Lady of ADMount Carmel, Benoni. See below and page 2. Please help us to assist Special the parishes – Archbishop Buti Religious Dear parishioners of the Catholic Archdiocese of Johannesburg, Development - Safety and good health be with you all at this unprecedented and very difficult time in our lives. where faith President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that churches may resume religious services as long as these are limited to 50 people or less, and friendship which after two months of our churches being closed, is a positive step. Your parish will keep you informed of the decisions they make regarding meet masses. We are very pleased how parishes have responded during this lockdown Above: The area where people period with video masses on YouTube, keeping other activities in the queue and are sanitised. life of a parish going as best as possible, as well as regular parish Left: The ‘receive and return’ area. communications. I write this note with a specific focus on our Archdiocese finances. As you are well aware, our primary source of funding at the Archdiocesan level comes from contributions from the parishes. Priests find The Archdiocese, through your contributions, has numerous financial obligations, especially financially supporting parishes in need and other religious and community projects. We are well aware that without masses innovative and regular contact, receiving donations is difficult, so I implore you to please continue with your donations to your parish and during these ways to difficult times. If you can donate more than your normal amount, this will be appreciated and will help with the efforts we are making to assist celebrate Mass the needy at this time. The list of the needy i s growing rapidly on a daily Lehlogonolo Lekale in her altar basis and our Church cannot ignore this. Your goodness and your gener- server’s vestments. osity will not go unnoticed. “My daughter Lehlogonolo Lekale hurches across the Arch- viewed by people in their cars. [2 Corinthians 9: 6-8] Remember: Whoever sows sparingly will also is nothing short of a blessing and diocese have different This is a praiseworthy innova- reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. a gift from God,” said Anna Cviews on whether to tion amid troubled times, were Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not Lekale whose face lights up when reopen for masses or not. A comments his parishioners shared reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. she talks about her daughter who number of parishes have kept with him. All parishes have bank accounts where you can deposit donations has Downs Syndrome. their doors closed, whilst several Fr Boniface D’Souza of directly from your bank account and many parishes also have additional Lehlogonolo, now 28 years old, have resumed services whilst Kempton Park said they celebrate payment methods like Snapscan/ Zapper and any other channels your started her journey with Special adhering to strict Covid-19 Mass every day. Weekday masses parish may have to accept donations. Religious Development (Spred) regulations of not more than 50 are at 9am, Saturday at 5pm and If you wish to make donations directly to the Archdiocese, this can be after Anna heard it announced at people with masks and practising Sunday at 08h30 and 10h30. done to: Catholic Archdiocese of Johannesburg, Standard Bank, St Margaret, over two social distancing. Sunday morning Mass is also Account no: 002125757 • Branch Code: 051001. decades ago. She has never An innovation which is being live-streamed and have also May the temporary loss of the Mass and meeting in church face to face looked back. “Thanks to Spred, witnessed in parishes such as Our arranged a ‘receive and return’ instill a deep solidarity, create greater appreciation for each other and for which offers catechesis for child- Lady of Mount Carmel, Benoni, method of giving communion. the priesthood, and inspire a deep hunger within for the return to attending ren with disabilities, my daughter Our Lady of Loreto, Kempton He said: “On Sunday, people Mass and a greater appreciation for what it really is. is confident, growing in faith, and Park and Our Lady of Lourdes, can ‘attend’ the online Mass and God bless you and thank you for all your assistance and contributions. is sociable and independent. She has seen outdoor masses prepare themselves spiritually to actively participates in church and whereby priests erect makeshift receive communion from 9h30 during Mass. First, she was an altars in car parks with parish- to 10h00.” altar server and now is part of the ioners sitting in their cars. Holy Julia Parker from Rivonia said, Most Rev. Archbishop Buti Tlhagale OMI youth choir. She was also able to Communion is taken to people in “It is honestly quite different and receive First Holy Communion their vehicles. a little weird and takes some and Sacrament of Confirmation Fr Arvin Tauro OCD from adapting, but I suppose it is better CORONAVIRUS through Spred,” said Anna. Benoni celebrates Mass with than nothing,” she said, adding For a long time, most people at fellow Carmelite priest, Fr Ryan she would continue sitting in the • Stay at home if you can • Practice social the parish did not know that Pais in the recently-paved car car park until the church opened • Wear a mask distancing Hlogi, as she is fondly known, is park. The altar is elevated so that officially. • Wash hands • Abide by the rules Continued on page 2. all proceedings can be clearly See page 2.

July 2020 [email protected] Volume 35 No 4 1 Pope’s Intentions: July Our families: We pray that today’s Mass at Our Lady of Loreto, families may be accompanied with Kempton Park love, respect and guidance.

PATRONAL FEASTS: JULY 3rd St Thomas, (1965) 6th St Maria Goretti, Riverlea (1974) 11th St Benedict, Mafatsana, Sebokeng (1988) 16th Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Thokoza (1958) 25th St James, Magaliesburg (1933) 26th St Anne, Belgravia (1906) Drive-through 31st St Ignatius of Loyola, Jesuits masses at Benoni Distribution of Holy Communion in the church while observing social distancing. R20 539 359 SPRED – continued from page 1. While enjoying sunny skies in R20 331 757 R 19 988 815 Benoni, fifty fortunate parishioners R19 791 627 R19 389 137 is my daughter, Anna recalled. took advantage of the parish’s first R18 914 598 R18 576 682 R18 457 482 R18 388 723 “It is because I wanted her to drive-in Sunday Mass at Our Lady R18 232 442 stand on her own which is some- of Mount Carmel. R17 845 114 thing she also enjoys.” R16 275 129 Spred has also taught her how All activities at the to express love to others and her Mother of Mercy Target: R25 million Shrine in Magalies- mother particularly looks forward and yet you go to school,” she Hlogi also runs errands for her to special days like Valentine’s Donations to date burg have been said, as Anna works in a school R13 274 571 mother. She goes to the nearest including expenditure suspended due Day and Mother’s Day. for children with autism. People mall and pays all her accounts at With Covid-19 still ravaging to lockdown. The with special needs are at the core the end of the month. R11 445 726 faithful are still the nation, Hlogi is frustrated that of her service to humanity. Hlogi is also not only adored by being asked for she cannot go out and attend Anna is grateful for Hlogi’s her family, but known and loved assistance to move masses, some of which are faith companion, Ntsoaki Mak- by everyone she meets. She takes the financial suspended. She is also missing Are you looking project forward, hetha, for her support. Ntsoaki a bus to school independently. for a tranquil place her Spred classes. reiterates that what I am saying is When fellow commuters don’t see to spend time with God despite the set- She tells me: “Anna, you are or a venue for your retreat? back. true and for her own good. her for a few days, they call and Why not try the Mother of Mercy Shrine really not fair,” and from time to “Your mother loves you and ask if she is okay. She also in the Magaliesburg. Following are the Conference rooms, accommodation and banking details: time gets frustrated with me. I this is for your benefit and other informs the bus the driver when breakfast are available throughout the year. R4 563 973 Marian Shrine and explain to her the importance of people,” Ntsoaki reassures her. she will not be boarding the bus. For bookings contact Fr Nkosinathi Nkabinde 072 918 6192 Pastoral Centre staying home. She does seem to R3 396 078 Ntsoaki has also made time to So Lehlogonolo, which means [email protected] Standard Bank understand. However, because she Themba Nkomo visit her during the pandemic and blessed in Sesotho has been 083 585 5813 021522251 struggles with the concept of has also taken her to visit her so nothing but a blessing to her staying home during this time , that she could also see her family. she finds it depressing and boring. daughter, with whom she is good Lerato Mohone May Jun Dec Jun Dec Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr “You say I cannot go to school friends. ’17 ’17 ’17 ’18 ’18 ’19 ’19 ’19 ’19 ’19 ’19 ’19 ’20 ’20 ’20 ’20 COMMUNITY NOTICES Take advantage of the lockdown and register for ORDER OF CARMELITES Kholofelo Ya Josefa St Augustine's College Self Paced Online courses. DISCALCED SECULAR Community Care Centre Add our courses to your to-do list – (OCDS) all at discounted prices! (Kholofelo) is a home-based and Uncapping the CAPS Mathematics for Teachers orphanage project of A 13 week Seminar – | R 500 St Hubert, Alexandra. Support Programme designed to help you after the death Specifically designed for experienced and new teachers, this SACE We are currently looking for of a loved one. volunteers as Care Givers, endorsed course is aligned to the CAPS curriculum for Grades R-12. This Cycles commening August: online self-paced course from St Augustine College is based on four broad Fundraisers, Treasurer and Wednesday 19th August 6.30 pm key mathematical concepts: number, geometry, algebra and analysis. Board of Trustees. Virtual meetings conducted via Zoom For more info contact Poshela Contact Lesley Callow 082 345 3084 Introduction to Ethics and Ethical Decision Kekana 0760627499 If Covid regulations and Parish Making for Accountants | R 500 can accommodate physical meetings: Do you want to be ‘LOVE’ This CPD course is suitable for those who work within the accountancy Abortion warning Saturday 15th August 10 a.m. in the centre of the World – industry, the course provides a basis for the identification and discus- ‘The pill’ can abort (chemical St Charles Catholic Church, ‘Love comprises sion of ethical and similar challenges, also differentiating ethical issues abortion), Catholics must be told, 35 Road No. 3, Victory Park for their eternal welfare, and survival ALL VOCATIONS…!’ and challenges from the non-ethical. It discusses ethics in the context of of their unborn infants. Contact Coralie Deas 083 524 7016 (St Therese de Lisieux) organisational culture and enables participants to understand the ethical www. epm.org.statitic/uploads/bcpill Each weekly session highlights implications and actions within the work context. Make a deeper commitment to JESUS pdfCoLA a different aspect of grief. today by …. 082 609 6919 Taking the promises of Poverty, Chastity Tel: 011 380 9000 • Email: [email protected] and Obedience… EVEN IF YOU ARE MARRIED! Coronavirus Rosary Enter The Order of Carmelites Created by “a friend of Our Lady”. Discalced - Secular (ocds) Please join “a friend of Our Lady” in praying and sharing the Coronavirus Where and How? COME AND SEE! Rosary to unite Catholics around the world in the battle against the Coro- Telephone: Bridget McIntosh-Hodge on 083 703 2301 navirus pandemic, armed with our greatest weapon – the Holy Rosary. Guided by the Holy Spirit and a Love for Our Lady, the CORONAVIRUS ROSARY was created to unite Catholics Make use of all over the world in asking Our Lady to intercede to the Holy Trinity, our Archdiocesan website to Combat the Coronavirus pandemic affecting us all. Looking for church contact Click on the link below to download the Coronavirus Rosary. information about the Archdiocese of Johannesburg, events and organ- https://bit.ly/3etq2XJ isations? We have a comprehensive (Document has been designed as a booklet. list of parishes, priests, schools, When printing set the page layout to booklet) homes, creches, shelters, sodalities and secular orders. Join us on FACEBOOK All are welcome to submit upcoming https://www.facebook.com/A-Friend-of-our-Lady-111487553651637 events and news for the website. Email us at a [email protected] The addresses are: Together in prayer www.catholicjhb.org.za “a friend of Our Lady” www.catholic-johannesburg.org.za

2 Volume 35 No 4 [email protected] July 2020 uring this crucial time of Lessons from Covid-19 pandemic, the Assisting migrants and DDepartment of Pastoral Care for Migrants and Refugees refugees during lockdown the lockdown is committed to continue to assist migrants and refugees espe- However, the team still itself de- lockdown to date, more than 12 Father Thomas Plastow S.J. cially with food parcels and food livers door-to-door food parcels 000 people in our Archdiocese Answers Liturgy Questions vouchers. From May 12 to date, to elderly people who are unable have been assisted with food the department and the Bienvenu to move from their homes to the parcels and toiletries. The help Shelter have already assisted 6 parishes. and support for the migrants ast month we looked at the perhaps even hundreds of Catho- 040 people with food parcels and The department is lucky to and refugees is dependent to the live-streamed liturgies lics with whom he has only the 1 250 people with food vouchers receive every two weeks a full donations received from sponsors which have been a consola- slightest acquaintance. They are on L so that they purchase what they truck of vegetables, maize meal, and people of goodwill. tion to many Catholics during the the parish register, but he may not want at Spar, Bruma for those and other non-perishable goods The department is appealing Coronavirus. That article brought necessarily put faces to the names, living in the Bertram’s area. The from a farmer. With these dona- for donations so that more people responses from on-line readers in even though he may have seen tions, the team at Pastoral Care is can be reached. different parts of the world, but no them in the pews. How does the department is working closely with parishes who have identi- able to assist many families with Contact: 011 4026400 new questions. Turning the tables priest reach out to this group? Will food. Since the beginning of the on my readers, this month it is my he go back to his old routine after fied needy families in their areas. turn to ask the questions! What lockdown, or will he try to evan- Volunteers carry have we learnt since our church gelise more? Will he learn to the food to the buildings were closed? cooperate with lay leaders so that packing room. he has more time for outreach? The bishops lifted the obligation to attend Mass, but why are we Do we, perhaps, have too many obliged? Wouldn’t it be better if Masses? people went to church because This question is controversial. It they found it meaningful? asks why we multiply the number Article 1247 of the Code of Canon of Masses but seldom gather for Law obliges Catholics to attend other forms of prayer. The Second Mass on Sundays and holy days of Vatican Council teaches that the A food delivery is off loaded from obligation. With a few exceptions, liturgy (Holy Mass) is both the the truck. such as when we are sick, we are summit towards which the activity expected to make the effort and go of the Church is directed and the Sr Marizete Garbin helps to Mass, even when we do not source from which all her power unload fresh produce. feel like it. Absenting ourselves is flows. The Mass is the most regarded as sinful because (a) we sacred, most powerful, most privi- are breaking the third command- leged form of worship. But the ment, (b) we are not celebrating Mass is not a commodity which is the day of the Lord’s resurrection, to be made available at any time and (c) we are failing to recognise the public care to drive up! There that we are part of the Body of are places where a priest presides Christ, the assembly that is called at four Masses each Sunday, but together as one. the church is never full. Every- In an ideal world, we would all thing is done so that we can fulfil want to join in regular communal our Sunday obligation convenient- worship because our hearts, our ly, in the minimum time possible. Above: Vicar for Pastoral Care for very identity, would be caught up Since many of “the faithful” Above: Hampers Migrants and Refugees, Fr Jean- in it. In such a world we would would not consider attending any- of food and Marie Kuzituka Did’ho also helped not take up a collection at Mass thing outside of Mass, some par- essentials ready with the packing of food. for distribution. since people would be sharing all ishes even combine Sunday Mass they have! In such a church, no with a penitential service to get one would be obliged to do any- people to confession in Lent! Left: Parcels are thing as they would give them- placed with social distancing in mind. selves freely in the Lord’s service! Once social distancing is behind us, would we not do better to hold Once public liturgies are reinstat- one large Sunday Eucharist, and ed, will people come back to Mass then offer a variety of other activi- in the same numbers? Will our ties before and afterwards? The parishes struggle financially? Liturgy of the Hours, Bible study, How many Catholics were paying guided meditation, and public attention to Canon 1247 anyway? devotions could all be lay-led Has the hierarchy long since lost initiatives. Instead of helping the People queue for food parcels. its ability to command the laity? faithful to fulfil obligations, What, really, is the role of the par- shouldn’t the Church’s ministers be ish priest? Is it mostly about the doing more for the “unfaithful”? A beneficiary appreciates the sacraments? generosity. We teach that the true Church is When the church buildings were marked by four signs: it is one, closed, many parish clergy were at holy, catholic and apostolic. Before a loss. Without the regular public Christianity was fragmented, how- services and meetings, and with ever, the Church emphasised five very little opportunity to meet other characteristics which we with parishioners, their diaries would do well to recapture in a were almost empty. Some have post-Coronavirus world: kerygma, questioned their role, or have koinonia, diakonia, liturgia, and Above and left: Grateful beneficiaries come to see how much of their marturia. Next month I will say time has been spent on mainte- more about these and how they nance instead of on mission. might shape our communities. One priest told me he would use this time to phone all his parish- We need more questions ioners, just to check in with them about the Liturgy! and see how they were doing ... a few words of encouragement You are welcome to send questions directly to Fr Plastow: and a prayer might go a long way. Women eager to receive food for I wonder how many priests have • PO Box 46876 their children. this kind of relationship with their Glosderry, 7702 people? In every parish there is a • e-mail [email protected] Sr Marizete Garbin MSCS core group whom the priest knows HOD Department of Pastoral Care • fax 011 402-6406 Beneficiaries acknowledge receipt of hampers from Sr Marizete Garbin. quite well, but there are dozens, This is for sponsors records. for Migrants and Refugees July 2020 [email protected] Volume 35 No 4 3 Suspension of sacraments during Covid-19 pandemic that one had never imagined in that the pandemic will also pass their lifetime. and everything will get back to Catechists have also been normal by His grace. Since we disrupted in teaching classes in celebrate the feast of Corpus their normal environment and Christi in June, St Bonaventure some have fortunately been able affirmed: “There is no difficulty Distributing hampers in Glenesk (L-R): Manny de Freitas to teach or give lessons through over Christ's being present in (DFF), Dulce das Dores (Mother Teresa group), Cllr Tyrell social media. Many candidates/ the sacrament as in a sign; the Meyers, Sophiso Sangwen (behind Cllr Meyers)(volunteer), catechumens looked forward great difficulty is in the fact that Fr Jorge Guerra (parish priest – St Patrick’s, La Rochelle), Conny Luiz (volunteer), Lucy Fernandes (volunteer) and Jeanette n his letter to the Archdio- to receiving sacraments at the He is really in the sacrament, as de Freitas ( DFF). Wearing black in the background is volunteer, Ricky Agrela. cese’s parishes, Archbishop Easter Vigil, First Holy Commu- He is in heaven. And so believ- IButi Tlhagale stated the nion. Children also were eager ing this is especially meritorious/ De Freitas Foundation Catholic family is part of the to receive the Body and Blood worthy.” South African citizens. Further- of Jesus on Corpus Christi on 14 ‘n the authority of God, who and friends distributed food more, being a citizen means one June and the sacrament of confir- reveals himself to us, by faith hampers to destitute community has to also observe the Covid-19 mation thereafter. we believe that which cannot be lockdown regulations. Not being Although we are living in grasped by our human faculties.’ he De Freitas Foundation (DFF) and noses. The distribution was able to go, or be part of Holy these difficult times and not be- (cf. Catechism, no. 1381). in conjunction with the Grupo done using social distancing pro- T Mass on Sunday, or receiving the ing able to follow the year plan Veronica Mofokeng de Madre Teresa (Mother Teresa tocols. Hampers were left at the Eucharist, has been a difficulty accordingly, we can only hope Secretary, Catechetics Department Group) from the St Patrick’s Catholic entrance gates of the resident’s Church in La Rochelle, as well as homes after which the resident other generous and concerned picked up the hamper once the celebrate, especially around 26 members of the Portuguese com- volunteer had moved away. Grandparents July, the feast of St Joachim munity, distributed food ham- Manny de Freitas from the and St Anne. Life will certainly pers to assist destitute families DFF explained that Glenesk has a are families’ never be the same again. in Glenesk who, as a result of the disproportionately high number of roots “Very often it is grandpar- coronavirus lockdown, are suffering unemployed and destitute people ents who ensure that the most economic hardships. who, due to the lockdown, have uly is one of my favourite important values are passed Accompanied to SAPS members, slipped further into economic months as the focus is on down to their grandchildren 20 members from the DFF, the hardship. Jeanette de Freitas, grandparents, the opposite and many people testify that Mother Teresa Group and the com- also from the DFF said, “My heart J extreme of youth. Age is they owe their initiation into munity in general joined forces to goes out to these people as they than we have done. respected and protected in human distribute hampers. The hampers are poor but are also faced with Our Marfam suggestions for the Christian life to their grand- that were donated and assembled drug dealers and people who take life but, even in nature in a forest, July are addressed to everyone, old parents.” Pope Francis AL 192 by volunteers will be a small relief drugs in the community. This the eldest tree, and in an animal and young, to do what they can For resources for family and during this difficult time. makes the situation worse.” group, the oldest and wisest and make the most of this time faith, blessings and prayers The hampers were distributed Outside of this particular distri- members are respected. Pope even if all we can is pray for one linked with the 2020 Family Year to the small suburb of Glenesk bution, the DFF has been assisting Francis reminds us that grand- another and, of course, learn to to Planner, or to register for a daily comprised of about 150 families, other families in need throughout parents belong in families and are communicate through social me- email, visit www.marfam.org.za. all contained within a few streets. and will continue do its historical memory. dia. As parish communities too, let Call Toni 082 552-1275 for This made it easy to distribute the what it can to assist as many fami- Not all grandparents are elderly us be prepared, care for, and also information. hampers. The volunteers wore face lies as possible during this difficult of course, many are active in their masks that covered their mouths time. own lives, while many others play a great role in the lives of their children and grandchildren. Ideally it is a joy to all generations, but elderly abuse needs to be recog- nised and addressed too. When the Coronavirus first hit us in February little did we think that months of separation and much hardship would lie ahead. We, as oldies, if not directly in- volved with our families, are told that in order to be safe we need to keep away. So all three genera- tions are lonely and missing the contact and interaction. At the same time, in the great circle of life, there is a time for Lockdown reality everything, for birth and death, for Alone time with God during lockdown. A woman from Our Lady of coming and going, for remaining Sorrows Priory, (SSPX) on the Solemnity of Corpus and leaving. We’re not meant to Christi. Pic: Calvin James Montgomery live forever and so we all have to prepare, probably more carefully

4 Volume 35 No 4 [email protected] July 2020 families could affford. In fact, if Marist Brothers schools he knew the family was unable to afford anything the tuition was celebrate their Founder free. For over 20 years Marcellin’s arist Brothers, Linmeyer recruits continued to increase in and St David’s Marist, number. By the time he died on 6 MInanda on 6 June cele- June 1840, the order had 48 brated their founder, St Marcellin establishments in France and a Champagnat. This year was no worldwide community of different, despite the lockdown. Brothers. Today the Brothers Born in the village of Le have their footprint in over 80 Rosey, near the city of Lyons, countries in every continent in the France, Marcellin was a typical world and the order has produced illiterate French peasant who, at would lead him to found the millions of students. Marcellin the suggestion of a visiting priest, Brothers. was canonised by Pope John II in decided to train for the priest- In January 1817, Marcellin April 1999. A special logo was hood. His family had little means near Lyons, the day after their bought a modest house in La chosen for this auspicious occa- to send him to the seminary, but ordination. Valla and recruited two young sion which consists of interwoven they were as determined as the Together they dedicated them- men, Jean-Marie Granjon and symbols. young Marcellin for him to study. selves to Mary as “The Society of Jean-Baptiste Audras and togeth- The letter M at the centre has Marcellin found the early years of Mary” Marcellin’s first and only er they initiated the first commu- been a special Marist symbol his studies towards the priesthood appointment as assistant priest nity. The three came from humble from the early days, suggesting extremely difficult. However, was to the remote rural communi- backgrounds and were used to Mary, Marcellin, Marist and through will, hard work, prayer ty of La Valla, not far from his simple living and hard work. Mission. Planet Earth symbolises and the support of his mother and home. It was his personal charis- year-old, Jean-Baptiste Montagne They carried this attitude into a mission to the entire world, aunt he was ordained in 1816. ma and sincerity that led him to who was on his deathbed. He was their new community, praying every country and every diocese During his studies, Marcellin become popular and respected by deeply moved that Jean-Baptiste often and from their example oth- without boundaries. The essential and a group of other seminarians his parishioners. had never learned the most basic ers came to join them. spiritual dimension of the mission had discussed forming a religious For 26 years, France had been elements of the Christian faith. It was in 1818 that Marcellin is suggested by the halo which order under the patronage of at war that never seemed to cease. He vowed to ensure others did opened the first Marist school, encircles and completes the Mary, the mother of Jesus. This As a result, education in public not suffer the same fate. This providing education to the poor- image. dream came to fruition in the rural areas had collapsed. event, more than any other, set est. His fees for the school he set Compiled by Lerato Mohone Source: Wikipedia church of Our Lady of Fourviéres One day, he visited 17-year Marcellin on the path which at a level he knew most rural

wo churches in the East Left: St Francis of Assisi, Tsietsi … debris of Deanery, under the leadership Two churches in Palm the destroyed church with firefighters in Tof Fr Godwin Garuba MSP, the background. have recently suffered great losses Below: Fr Godwin Garuba MSP monitors at the hands of thieves and Ridge suffer great losses the distribution of food hampers. arsonists. On 28 April, a parishioner of Sacred Heart, Palm Ridge raised the alarm after seeing the church door open. On arrival, the priest found that a major break-in had occurred St Francis of Assisi, Tsietsi… Celebration during loadshedding. of Holy Mass in the hot summer’s heat. Everything used for worship was stolen – the tabernacle, altar linen and other items like heaters and the gate motor. The brazen criminals returned and retrieved the security digital Sacred Heart, Palm Ridge…The sanctuary was desecrated with altar cloths video recording on the surveillance strewn all over the floor. cameras so there is no evidence of who it was. over. The area was initially an grateful to Fr Stan Muyebe OP, To beef up security, doors and infor-mal settlement, however, the director of the SACBC Justice and windows have since been government has been developing it Peace Commission, for his gener- reinforced, locks changed and the replacing shacks with RDP houses. osity,” Fr Garuba said. where the Church was burned art church, but one that is decent alarm system reactivated with a Like most developing areas, it is We need to be strong and down. enough for people to worship,” local security company. beset with high levels of unemploy- not allow these tests to destroy “We need a place we can call he concluded. “As parishes are readying to open, ment, poverty and dire housing our relationship with God, he home. As churches get ready to Anyone who can assist can we have nothing to work with – we needs, however, the church showed encouraged. open, we do not have a roof for contact Fr Garuba on have to replace all that has been great potential. Our charism as the Fr Garuba said the celebration of shelter in this perishing cold. We are 084 031 3544. lost,” said Fr Garuba. Missionary Society of St Paul is to Mass continued outside at the site not looking to build a state-of-the- The main parish, St Paul the teach the Catholic faith where it is Apostle, Eden Park has been of great most challenging. help carrying most of the financial Congregants worked hard recruit- burdens. ing members by evangelising, built a He shared that they also struggle modest and safe structure and for funds and that he has had to sourced utensils and equipment. forego some amenities. Filled with pride over their achieve- Fr Garuba said “A tabernacle may ments, they looked forward to a cost between R30 000 and R60 000, bright future. a chalice and ciborium around R3 Fire fighters confirmed the incident 400 each and a quality monstrance to be arson. That the structure was is not less than R10 000.” built with combustible material such In another devastating incident as wood made the fire spread on the night of 26 November last quickly. Fr Garuba suspects the fire year, Fr Garuba received a message: to be motivated by jealousy from the ‘The church is burning’. community as other churches which Unfortunately, nothing was did not comply with municipal salvaged – benches, altar servers’ regulations were demolished. vestments, altar, a tent Fr Garuba Bishop Duncan Tsoke introduced had bought were also engulfed in them to the SACBC Justice and Peace the blaze. It was devastating to Commission which supplied them wit-ness our sweat, blood, contribu- with food parcels for 73 families. tions, sacrifices and dreams go up Fr Garuba helped deliver these in smoke. which was one way he continued to The parish of St Francis of Assisi in minister to the community. “We are Tsietsi, Palm Ridge Extension 9, was grateful that Bishop Duncan founded in 2012. When Fr Godwin remembered our challenges and came to the country in 2013 he took became our advocate. We are also

July 2020 [email protected] Volume 35 No 4 5 VAAL DEANERY NEWS Covid-19 workshop for coordinators

brothers Bongani Thunza and Karabo Lephuthing. Covid-19 precautionary measures, as stip- ulated by the Archdiocese were followed. Leadership of the churches attended to ascertain if they would be able to observe First Mass in time all the guidelines and assist council of Emmanuel in Sebo- Covid-19 coordinators. of a pandemic keng at Mass led by Fr Sekabata Members of the parish pastoral Solomon Mphela on Sunday, council and parish finance 7 June. Fr Mphela was assisted by

Fr Solomon Mphela gets Conducting Covid-19 tests tested for Covid-19. Emmanuel Catholic Church in Vaal Deanery became one of the centres in the Sedibeng Municipality to conduct the tests of Covid-19.

he gates of Nyolohelo in attended and were trained to be TSebokeng were opened for a facilitators for Covid-19 were two workshop and training for the seminarians of the Archdiocese Covid-19 coordinators whilst who are doing their internship, Emmanuel, also in Sebokeng, brothers Karabo Lephuthing and conducted testing. Bongani Thunza. Among the people who

COVID-19 FOOD PARCELS FOR THOSE IN NEED WE WILL BE FEEDING – Families at St Charles Parish – Polokong Children’s Village – Frederic Place Home for Aged – Community – Mercy House – & Freedom Park – Nazareth House – Zimbabwe refugee families – Sisters of Charity

6 Volume 35 No 4 [email protected] July 2020 First vows for Sean van Staden

RIP Nomahlubi Mass in the age Radebe of Covid-19 he Daughters of St Anne Sodality in mourns pandemic the passing of their Top: Staff as they go through Sean van Staden of St John's Northriding, and Holy Trinity, Braam- T Deanery Treasurer, Nomahlubi proceedings of the Mass. fontein, made the profession of first vows in the Society of Jesus, Radebe. The mourners, who Above: Youth department head, Lesotho. He was one of a group of 12 who came from , gathered at her home in small Sr Juliana Abioye proclaiming the Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Zambia and Malawi as part of the new groups to observe social first reading. Jesuit Province of Southern Africa. distancing, remembered her as a Left: Fr Victor Ngwenya during the good counsellor who supported proclamation of the Gospel. bereaved people and anyone undergoing psychological and n the memorial of St Boni- emotional situations, especial Oface, bishop and martyr, the children at her home parish Youth Department organised the St Theresa, Zondi. First Friday Mass in the Chancery Hlubi was very good at chapel. It was led by administrator of the Cathedral, Fr Victor organising and identifying the Ngwenya and social distancing was practised. talent of young girls and boys who are eager to participate in beauty Radio Veritas Fun Share Relay pageants. She was an exceptional catechist, who was instrumental in introducing Catholicism to RCIA candidates and children at St The- resa. She also served as the parish administrator, and was a devoted member of the sodality who was always eager to maintain peace WORK IN PROGRESS: and unity in the sodality. Construction has resumed She is remembered for her devotion to our Lady Mary and Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Phiri walked in Mary’s steps as she was soft spoken, humble and prayerful. Construction has finally resumed for an addition to the Holy Rosary, Her beautiful spirit will live on Phiri church. through her children, who know Members of the Catholic Women’s League and Immaculate Concep- Pic: Fr Michael Seheri tion participated in the Radio Veritas Fun Share relay on 24 March. how much she loved them. It will The theme was “Let Mary be Known”. The league managed to get to also remain with the children and over R167 000 for charity in pledges made in three hours. We celebrate with our Priests adults she taught catechism to, as well as the Daughters of St Anne Thabile Mbhele The following priests and deacons celebrate their birthdays and members. anniversaries of their ordination. Please keep them in your prayers. Daughters of St Anne Sodality Ordinations 25-07-87 Fr David Barnard 25-07-15 Fr Lawrence Ndlovu 01-07-62 Fr Peter Doherty 25-07-15 Fr Matthew Opiyo 02-07-00 Fr Jean Yammine 29-07-17 Fr Matthew Otika AD news 02-07-16 Fr John Thembo 30-07-82 Fr David Rowan Published by the Catholic Archdiocese 02-07-06 Fr Charbel Habchi 31-07-91 Fr Graham Pugin of Johannesburg, 04-07-70 Fr Michael Austin Pvt Bag X10, Doornfontein, 2028. 04-07-92 Fr Raymond McQuarrie Birthdays in July 186 Nugget St, Berea. 08-07-95 Fr Joseph Nnadi 2nd Fr Richard Stonier Twelve issues per annum. 11-07-09 Fr Donald McLoughlin rd Circulation 15 000 copies per issue. 3 Fr Joseph Luyombya Distributed to all parishes of the th 11-07-15 Fr Innocent Daniel 6 Fr Andrew Knott Archdiocese of Johannesburg. 11-07-15 Fr Achille Soungou Rev Neil Philipson Editor: Anna Cox Ebana 8th Rev Sebhamu Mashinini Cell 083 610-0439 th 12-07-73 Fr Dryden David 9 Rev Dennis Gregory Chancery office: 011 402-6400 12-07-75 Fr Brian Connolly 15th Fr Rowan David Fax: 011 402-6406 13-07-97 Fr Maurice Chidiac 16th Fr Tom Segami Chancery cell: 079 040-0668 14-07-02 Fr Ernest Kabungo 18th Fr Ignatius Fidgeon [email protected] 15-07-00 Fr Oluwole Obadina 19th Fr Blaise Mambu Reporter: 15-07-06 Fr Uzochukwu Ohanele Fr Arnaldo Nyathi Judy Stockill 083 267-7070 16-07-16 Fr Theodore Macupe 21st Fr Jeff Jawaheer Reporter: 17-07-99 Fr Raymond Anyanwu rd Lerato Mohone 064 664-6339 23 Fr Sean McEwen Letters Editor: 19-07-98 Rev Terence Fox Rev Simon Koenane Mike Kennedy 082 904-8980 19-07-98 Rev Drummond 24th Fr Sean Murphy Advertising: Lessing 25th Fr Arun D’Mello Lerato Mohone 19-07-98 Rev Michael McGovern 27th Fr Thabo Mothiba For advert enquiries 19-07-98 Rev Michael McGovern Rev Bernard Khasu send message to: 19-07-98 Rev Brian Walsh th 28 Rev Simon Mokoena adnewsadverts th 21-07-01 Fr Emmanuel 29 Fr Theodore Macupe @catholicjhb.org.za Kagimbangabo 30th Rev Graham Meiring 22-07-95 Fr Eugene DEADLINE FOR AUGUST ISSUE Oguamanam 10 JULY

July 2020 [email protected] Volume 35 No 4 7 Level 3 Covid-19 Women’s precautionary World Day of measures at Prayer Little Eden Society The Catholic Women’s League s the country moved to collection of donations. members from Our Lady of level 3 from 1 June, the The Little Eden charity shop in Loreto, Kempton Park attending Little Eden Society Edenvale re-opened and has been Women’s World Day of Prayer A on 7 March. The gathering was continues to monitor the situ- fully operational since 8 June and ation closely and will adjust the is accepting donations from the well-attended. precautionary measures in place public. The prayer day is a global according to the suitability of the Necessary hygienic practices ecumenical movement of Chris- vulnerable people in its care. and procedures such as sanitising tian women held in over 170 The society is working towards and screening of staff and countries to pray for peace and adjusting and maintaining some customers will be in place. justice. The World Day Prayer of the following measures on The planned major renovations brings together women of vari- level 3: are for the interim still on hold. ous races, cultures and churches • Visitors to the homes – the Little Eden has sent its heartfelt in fellowship and understanding. homes remain closed to the thanks to the public for their con- Lorraine Cowling public for on-site visits. This tinued support and contribution includes family members of towards the well-being of the resi- residents who are probably the dents even during the difficult most severely-affected by this times affecting everyone. As a regulation as they have not thank you token, the residents and been able to visit their loved staff prepared a Covid-19 song ones at the home for some adapted from Paul McCartney’s time. This is one of the most ‘We all stand together’. Visit the difficult decisions the society Little Eden crowdfunding page on had to take for the benefit and the Givengain platform to watch safety of its residents; and listen to the song and please Feeding • The volunteer and community share with your family and service programme is still on friends. the hungry hold for the time being; To make a financial contribu- • Due to the urgent need of for tion towards the Home or for he West Deanery Catholic donations, effective 1 June the more information about the TWomen’s League Regional Society will be open to preventative measures in place, Council recently donated food donation drop offs; and please contact Nichollette Muthige parcels to families in need of • Donors will still not be allow- on [email protected] food during this difficult time in ed onto the premises, but or contact the office on three different areas on 23 and hygienic measures and pro- 011 609 7246. 24 May. cesses will be in place to To make arrangements of Ladies who helped with the packing Tebogo Tsimane receive the goods. This will donations, contact 011 609 7246 and distribution of the food parcels. also include resuming the to make arrangements. Food parcels for the poor – Zondi

Bobo Redebe, Kelebogile Zibi and Tebogo Tsimane. The Society of St Vincent de Paul of St Theresa, Zondi dis- tributed food parcels to the most needy in the community. Styles Makhoba

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8 Volume 35 No 4 [email protected] July 2020