newsnewsA publication of the Catholic Archdiocese of 3 Farewell questions Matric Odilon on Good Friday results 4-6 The imposition of ashes. Telephone (011) 402 26400 • www.catholicjhb.org.za MARCH 2021 ADThe imposition of ashes Urgent help needed in during Covid-19

o mark the beginning of Lent, Fr Victor Ngwenya celebrated Mass support of the Lenten Appeal Tfor Chancery staff in the Mother of Mercy chapel. Pictured above My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, is Odilon Molapo, head of the Evangelisation department receiving the ashes. “My dear people, since God has loved us so much, we In a time of Covid-19, the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ too should love one another…” (1 Jn. 4:11). Conference and Vatican’s Congregation for Divine Worship and the I greet you by wishing you a blessed 2021, a year that Sacraments issued guidelines that ashes should be sprinkled on people’s we give thanks to God, notwithstanding the heartache, heads as a precautionary measure against spreading the virus. confusion, fear, and anxiety brought on by the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic that is ravaging our Deep sense of purpose and faith country. Let us continue to pray for the strength to encourage each other during these challenging times helped Catholic pupils achieve because God is always walking by your side. Popes Francis writes that the period of Lent is a time outstanding results of Fasting, Prayer and Almsgiving. Fasting, prayer and t is easy to say that 2020 has transition to online teaching, hav- almsgiving, as preached by Jesus (cf. Mt 6:1-18), enable been a difficult year and every- ing the resources on hand whilst and express our conversion. The path of poverty and Ione has worked under difficult other schools, which did not have self-denial (fasting), concern and loving care for the circumstances conditions which technology, but this did not deter poor (almsgiving), and childlike dialogue with the made maintaining standards them from fulfilling their commit- Father (prayer) make it possible for us to live lives of difficult. This is true! Throughout ment to the students. Determined sincere faith, living hope and effective charity” the year, it has been said that not to be defeated by the pande- (Pope Francis, Lent 2021). maybe when we are tested, the mic, these teachers reverted to most deeply-embedded ethos and traditional distance-education Continued on page 8. values of our Catholic community strategies, prepared weekly learn- truly comes to life. ing programmes using textbook th The hard lockdown had a dif- references with prepared notes 800 anniversary of fering impact across our schools and exercises. hard to imagine that this global with some being able to make the Continued on page 2. St Dominic’s death disaster is unrelated to our way of approaching reality, our claim to be absolute masters of our own lives RIP – Forty years of changing and of all that exists. I do not want to speak of divine retribution, nor would the lives of Alexandra residents it be sufficient to say that the harm he parish of Alexandra is we do to nature is itself the punish- ment for our offences. The world is one that has had a boom in itself crying out in rebellion. We are Tvocations to the priesthood reminded of the well-known verse of and religious life. This can be the poet Virgil that evokes the “tears largely attributed to its now late of things”, the misfortunes of life parish priest, Fr Ronald Cairns and history. OMI through his faith and “There has been a far too religious life. Those who were narrow reading of the funda- called to the priesthood, were mental blessing of our creation. inspired to follow in his footsteps Our unloving attitude leads to disconnection, thus exploitation CORONAVIRUS From left: Fr Wilbroad Mulenga, in , but others joined and degradation,” said Fr Martin. Fr Ronald Cairns OMI Fr Martin Badenhorst, Fr Raphael from England, Switzerland, The problem was understood by • Stay at home if you can Ntlou at the celebration. Thomas Aquinas who noted that of being Oblates of Mary Australia, Zimbabwe, Zambia • Wear a mask what gets in the way of our Immaculate. and Spain. ver a hundred Dominicans responsibility for the good of all • Wash hands Born on 3 October 1946 in Fr Martin Badenhorst gave the gathered on Zoom on 30 things in nature is the fact that • Practice social Pretoria to Norah and Hascott O main address: “There are tears at January for a celebration the heart of things” (from Virgil’s we desire not what is good for distancing Cairns, Fr Ronald Hascott th marking the jubilee of the 800 Aeneid) and quoted by Pope everything, but rather what is • Abide by the Cairns OMI was ordained to anniversary of the death of St Francis in Fratelli Tutti: good for me. Continued on page 8. Dominic. Most participants live 34. If everything is connected, it is Continued on page 9.

March 2021 [email protected] Volume 35 No 12 1 Pope’s Intentions: March Sacrament of reconciliation Good “Samaritans”

Let us pray that we may experience the sacrament atholic Women’s League members of Our Lady of of reconciliation with renewed depth, CVictories, Doornkop braved the rain on 31 January to taste the infinite mercy of God. to donate face-shields to needy members of the commu- nity and parish. Priority was given to the elderly who PATRONAL FEASTS: MARCH had attended Mass for the first time after a long time. Most had been struggling to th 17 St Patrick, La Rochelle (1906); Benoni (1910) breathe with facemasks when they th 19 St Joseph, Mayfair (1892); Actonville (1935); Meadowlands (1958); reached the church. Primrose (1958); Mokoena (1966) Some of the children who attended 24th Our Lady of Victories, Dobsonville (1996) Mass regularly were also given shields. Fikile Ndima Funds are still being raised by various fund-raising committees. The target is R25 million. To date R21 239 638 has been raised. Chancery staff bids Odilon farewell service to the Chancery and the Archdiocese. Everybody echoed Fr Vic- tor’s sentiments that he embod- ied three admirable qualities: a doting father, a gentleman who always looked suave and the Shrine merchandise passion he has for his faith. It has indeed been an honour available at the Chancery and privilege to work with him. Lerato Mohone

Odilon listens attentively to staff as they shared experiences of working with him. hancery staff bade farewell to CHead of the Evangelisation department, Odilon Molapo on Friday, 26 February. After a Mass of thanksgiving said for him by Fr Victor Ngwe- nya, all gathered in the tea room Above: Head of Liturgy Department, Catholic Women’s Annastacia Mphuthi reflects on the to enjoy tea and to thank him for working and familial relationship League 2021 over 11 years of dedicated she enjoyed with Odilon. Buy your Mother of Mercy Shrine merchandise diary available at the office. To purchase, please call any CWL branch. Contact Veronica Pieterson on 011 402 6400

Drymac: R400 Cap: R100 ORDER OF CARMELITES Drymac winter warmer: R420 Hat/Sporty R100 DISCALCED SECULAR Candle: R100 Kids golf shirt: R180 (OCDS) Odilon and Veronica Pieterson (left) worked closely together for many years. Mug: R100 Shrine logo embroidered Beanie/woollen hat: R 70 on your own denim T-shirt: R100 jacket: R250 Catholic pupils achieve outstanding not provide the perseverance, results – Continued from page 1. Golf shirt: R250 Buffs: R 70 resilience and understanding to Blanket: R300 Face masks R 50 achieve excellent results in the Throughout the network, our Cape/poncho: R400 matric year, but is the culmina- teachers found innovative ways Denim jacket: R550 tion of many years of dedicated to ensure the curriculum was teaching. covered while, at the same time, Rosa Calaca supported and encouraged their Director, Catholic Schools Office COMMUNITY NOTICES students to persevere. We do not have all the results Kholofelo Ya Josefa Sanitary Towel in yet but those received thus far Community Care Centre Donations indicate that this has been an Make use of A home-based and orphanage With the re- excellent academic year. Looking our Archdiocesan project of St Hubert, Alexandra opening of schools, at the raw data, there is a 98,9% Do you want to be ‘LOVE’ website CWL Social Workers are imple- pass rate and is similar to other WANTED – VOLUNTEERS: in the centre of the World – menting an education drive aimed years. The exemption rate is excel- Looking for church contact • Care givers at young girls on care, hygiene and ‘Love comprises lent with the number of students information about the • Fundraisers health at local primary schools. ALL VOCATIONS…!’ with bachelor passes being higher Archdiocese of Johannesburg, • Treasurer Please assist their efforts with than in previous years. events and organisations? (St Therese de Lisieux) • Board of trustees donations of sanitary towels. Stories abound about how We have a comprehensive list of Make a deeper commitment For more information, contact learners battled to deal with the parishes, priests, schools, homes, Thank you! to JESUS today by …. Poshela Kekana (076) 062 7499 many crisis during this time. What creches, shelters, sodalities and Please contact Taking the promises of Poverty, is most gratifying is that the stu- secular orders. [email protected] Chastity dents in Catholic schools seemed Tel: 011 618 1533/4 and Obedience… All are welcome to submit to be ableto draw on a deep sense PREGNANCY EVEN IF YOU ARE MARRIED! of purpose and faith in order to upcoming events and news CRISIS LINE Abortion warning for the website. Enter The Order of Carmelites achieve these excellent results! ‘The pill’ can abort (chemical Discalced - Secular (ocds) Well done to all those involved The addresses are: Pregnant? abortion), Catholics must be told, for their eternal welfare, and survival Where and How? COME AND SEE! in what has been a turning point www.catholicjhb.org.za of their unborn infants. in the evolution of education. The www.catholic-johannesburg. Need help? Telephone: Bridget McIntosh-Hodge www. epm.org.statitic/uploads/ on 083 703 2301 achievements are proof that the org.za grade 12 year on its own does Call 061 925-1987 bcpill pdfCoLA 082 609 6919 2 Volume 35 No 12 [email protected] March 2021 ishops should be prepar- Catholic Social Teaching should Good questions ing the Church for its role Bin public life. So said change the Church Bishop Matthew Kukah of the on Good Friday Diocese of Sokoto, Nigeria and Catholic Church has a role in civil violence of the State. newly-appointed by the Holy See society and public life; it should He is hopeful that he will see Father Thomas Plastow S.J. to the dicastery of Integral Human develop strategies for engagement the Church elevate justice and Development who addressed a with the State. There is a fourth peace work with greater speed. Answers Liturgy Questions webinar on 1 February at the invi- dimension to justice, he said, the Instead of endless episcopal tation of Bishop Victor Phalana of commonly-accepted, three-way statements, the bishops should be his year, Holy Week bridg- appropriate time for a woman to Justice and Peace. The webinar reconciliation between the victim, preparing the Church for its role es the end of March and give a reflection? aimed at J&P workers was open the perpetrator and the common in public life. An example would Tbeginning of April so I to all and attended by about 50 good of society and ‘justice be Catholic institutions of learn- thought these questions from four This is a difficult question to people. It was hosted by Radio before God.’ ing in Africa. Do they offer train- different readers might help pre- answer. On one hand, there is Veritas and ably chaired by Sheila Prophesy is about the present. ing for future parliamentarians pare us for Good Friday 2021. nothing to prevent the presiding Pires. The stakes are high. The Catholic and members of the judiciary? Asked to speak on justice, peace Church in Africa should become The Church must be more know- minister from inviting a non- Why is this day called “Good ordained member, male or and non-violence, the priorities of a bit more ambitious about justice ledgeable about politics. It must Friday”? What is good about the female, to say a few words. On the SACBC 2020 Pastoral Plan, and fairness for the least of our see that its young people enter the death of Jesus? the other hand, Good Friday is a Bishop Kukah focused on the community. “The Christian in us realm of politics, economics, and day on which many people attend Church’s role in reconciliation and places a moral obligation upon us. public life. Each Bishops’ Confer- The name “Good Friday” is one who otherwise stay away from the State as a source of violence in “One cannot study the Catholic ence should be strategising about of those English language throw- church and most parish clergy Africa. Social Teaching (CST) of the the way forward. backs. Just like “goodbye” is a would be reluctant to lose this In his response to the talk, Church, as I did in Rome, and He urged that the Church take corruption of the earlier greeting chance to preach a homily. Bishop Phalana urged the Church remain unchanged,” Bishop the voices of the people to state “God be with you”, so “Good in the SA Conference area to Kukah continued. There is ignor- leaders. Presidents should be told Friday” was originally “God’s When we venerate the Cross at speak out. “Government must hear ance of the CST among priests how life is for ordinary citizens. Friday”. It is an accident of lin- the Good Friday service, should us on behalf of the poor.” and bishops which is why the Judy Stockill guistic history. Of course, the we use a cross without a corpus Bishop Kukah said that the Church is so quiet about the death of Jesus fills us with sad- or a crucifix? ness, but we can also rejoice in the good that resulted from it. The veneration of the Cross Assisting The official name for this day in originated in Jerusalem where the current English missal is Christians believed they had the needy “Friday of the Passion of the found the Cross of Christ which Lord”. they displayed and venerated as a Feeding thousands relic on Good Friday and other during Covid-19 On Good Friday, why do the occasions. This custom came to priest and deacon prostrate Rome once a piece of the True themselves at the beginning of A parcel is handed Cross was brought there. No to a recipient. the service? image of Jesus was used. Once Registration of beneficiaries. the Roman ceremonies were Prostrating oneself flat on the ground is an ancient sign of written into books, people every- humility before a god or a great where venerated the “Wood of ruler. Moses and Aaron prostrated the Cross” in their own churches, themselves before God (Numbers even though they had to use a 20:16) and Jesus himself fell on substitute. We have become used his face in the Garden of Gethse- to venerating a crucifix, thinking mane (Matthew 26:39). This that we are showing sorrow for gesture was also used in pre- the suffering of Christ, and kiss- Christian Rome. The Good Friday ing his feet. This was not the service usually begins at 3pm, the original understanding as you can hour at which Christ died on the tell from the ancient chants in the Cross. We start in silence, kneel- missal: “Noble tree beyond com- ing or prostrating, as though we pare… sweet the timber, sweet the iron…” It is now becoming ourselves are present before the Handing out vouchers. Cross on Calvary. more common to see a bare cross brought out, inviting us to look at Why do the priest and deacon the instrument of Christ’s torture wear red on Good Friday instead after we have read about him of black? being placed in the tomb. Contributions were The more important consider- distributed. Red is for the Blood of Christ ation, as I see it, is that we have which was shed for us. Red has only one cross on display and that been the approved liturgical we venerate together as one colour since the publication of the people. The suburban fashion of 1969 Roman Missal. Before that setting up several crosses, one at he Department of Pastoral assisted many shelters within the standing, commitment and love time, the first part of the Good each door, so that people can kiss Care for Migrants and Archdiocese in the form of shown to those most desperately Friday service used black vest- Jesus goodbye while on the way Refugees, with Bienvenu sharing donations of foods and in need. We have all come ments and then, after the venera- T together and united to assist to their cars may save time, but it Shelter, a home for migrants and fresh vegetables on a regular tion of the Cross, the clergy damages the shape of the liturgy displaced mothers and their basis. during these very uncertain times. changed into violet for the Com- and our unity of purpose. We children in Bertams, saw an even They worked together with 17 We thank all donors for their help munion Service. Many cultures must always remember that the greater need to provide help to the local parishes assisting the needi- and all the staff and volunteers use black as the colour of death liturgy is not about “me and my neediest with the global pandemic. est within the communities, as who have directly been involved and mourning, but Christians personal Jesus” but is the united, Working together, they provided well as five migrant communities. in the distribution process. come do not come together on communal worship of God’s direct assistance to 17 890 house- The community leaders and May God bless each one of you Good Friday to bury Jesus and faithful people. holds and 72 974 people indirectly parish priests were very support- with continued health and let us pour out their grief. We know his with the distribution of perishables ive throughout this process in remain hopeful in the faith that death means a new beginning: the world will heal itself once We need more questions and non-perishables, food ensuring that they accompanied, that he goes to bring back from again. about the Liturgy! vouchers and food parcels, cloth- and identified those who were the dead all the patriarchs and ing vouchers, hygiene kits, sani- truly in the most desperate need. Episcopal Vicar: Fr Jean-Marie You are welcome to send prophets, and that we will see tisers and masks, school stationery Advice and training were also Kuzituka Did’ho questions directly to Fr Plastow: him again, in his risen and glori- and school uniforms, as well as given to all beneficiaries on how Head of Department and Director: fied body, just as he promised. • PO Box 46876, Glosderry, 7702 rental payments and the setting up to keep themselves and their Sr Marizete Garbin, MSCS • e-mail [email protected] of small businesses to needy families safe. Director of Bienvenu Shelter: Since the Good Friday service is • fax 011 402-6406 families within the Archdiocese. We are truly thankful and Sr Marivane Chiesa, MSCS not a Mass, wouldn’t it be an These organisations also overwhelmed by the under-

March 2021 [email protected] Volume 35 No 12 3 MATRIC RESULTS ST DAVID’S

It is gratifying that these superb results have been to following and celebrating the future success of the achieved despite the considerable challenges faced last class of 2020 in their tertiary studies, in their chosen year. Central to this has been the inculcation of immuta- careers and in their personal pursuits. We encourage ble values and life skills. Whilst we are proud of what our them to strive to make our world a safer, kinder and 2020 Matrics have achieved in academics, sports and happier place. Above all, we wish them happy, pur- cultural activities; it is exciting to know that this is just poseful and fulfilling lives. the beginning. The best is yet to come. We look forward Neville Workman, Principal De La Salle Holy Cross College

MARYVALE COLLEGE

Natasha Ndlovu Kamogelo Kungwane Ncha Anucha 6 distinctions 4 distinctions 4 distinctions We are very proud of our Matrics of 2020 who achieved a 100% pass rate. 86.4% of our learners earned a Bachelor’s pass, 13.6% a Diploma pass, and they garnered a total of 47 distinctions. Last year was an extremely challenging one and our Matrics showed us how resilient and courageous they are in the face of adversity – their results are proof of this. Thank you to the dedicated teachers who worked tirelessly so that our learners were able to achieve these results. Well done to all our learners – your hard work has been rewarded!

4 Volume 35 No 12 [email protected] March 2021 MATRIC RESULTS

Message from Principal of the High School – Mrs Belinda Damhuis Congratulations to our Matrics of 2020 - fearless and resilient! You never Amy Janse van Xinyuan (Anna) gave up and showed perseverance and grit, that will serve you well in your Rensburg Teng lives going forward. We would like to congratulate and thank the incredible 8 distinctions 8 distinctions teachers who guided and supported our Matrics through a year like no other. A big thank you to all the teachers who touched their lives and Comment from our inspired them in some way throughout their Primary and High School edu- High School Principal, cation – we know that Grade 12 is the culmination of many years of laying Mrs Elsa de Bod: critical foundations.

“While I wish to commend Total number of Distinctions – 151 all our top achievers for their outstanding results, it would be wrong not to Brogan Hughes Danielle Phillips Julia Natascha Nicola Scott acknowledge the success 7 distinctions 7 distinctions Procommenos Liebenberg 7 distinctions of the Matric Class of 2020 7 distinctions 7 distinctions as a whole. They experi- enced a year filled with new and unimaginable challenges, but each and Vicky Chen Kristen Loo Simone de Castro Courtney Laros Daniella Johnston 7 distinctions 7 distinctions every girl overcame the 8 distinctions 8 distinctions 8 distinctions difficulties of 2020 in her own way, and every one of these remarkable young ladies deserves praise for Verity Hindson Busisiwe Jasmin Fraser Jessica Paige McElligott that feat alone. Moreover, 7 distinctions Khumalo 6 distinctions Caldwell 6 distinctions the girls who achieved 6 distinctions 6 distinctions their personal best results, even if these were not dis- Ashleigh Stock Courtney Boake Oshai Naidoo Tia Poovan Tyla Bibis tinctions, deserve to be 7 distinctions 6 distinctions 6 distinctions 6 distinctions 6 distinctions highly commended for their commitment, hard work and the successes they achieved.”

Our outstanding results: Robyn Shearer Alethea Vivier Cameron Chiedza Ruby Delahunt 6 distinctions 5 distinctions Glover Madamombe 5 distinctions 100% Matriculation Pass Rate 5 distinctions 5 distinctions 100% BD (University Entrance) Ashley Mortimer Kelise Klotz Krista Caporrino Tina Endrulenas Pass Rate 5 distinctions 5 distinctions 5 distinctions 5 distinctions 161 distinctions out of 50 candidates Average of 3,2 distinctions per candidate Grade average: 75%

Sylvia Izegbu Abigail Skinner Andisile Shulamite Talia Krishnan 5 distinctions 4 distinctions Ntshona Mlobela 4 distinctions 4 distinctions 4 distinctions Alexia Sequeira Jessica Grobler Tanika Laskey 4 distinctions 4 distinctions 4 distinctions

March 2021 [email protected] Volume 35 No 12 5 MATRIC RESULTS

Danielle Merchak Carla Ferreira Francesca Michael 7 distinctions 6 distinctions 6 distinctions

Jessica Fearnhead Madison Hackney Stephanie Merchak 6 distinctions 6 distinctions 6 distinctions Message from the Head of Brescia House School: Mrs Loredana Borello The Class of 2020 will be remembered for upholding the ethos and values of the school and for being brave in the face of adversity. Their creativity and perseverance in keeping the school united during the COVID-19 pan- demic, when the schools were in lockdown, was admira- ble. They adapted to an online learning and teaching platform with responsibility. Connecting with each grade every day through morning prayers, leadership committee updates and student challenges was truly appreciated by all. They showed true strength in unity. The matrics continued to be involved in all aspects of school life when they returned to school after lock- down. They remained positive and rose to all the chal- lenges that the year provided, with determination. We are extremely proud of the wonderful academic results they achieved, in this unusual year. A pass rate of 100% is a rewarding accomplishment. Well done to all. Class of 2020, we salute you, for the courage, vulner- ability, and determination you showed throughout the year and wish you everything of the best in your future endeavours.

“We congratulate the class of 2020 who have honoured our over 50-Year legacy of a 100% pass rate and have excelled by achieving a 99% University Bachelor pass rate. This is an outstanding achievement in a year where they had to over- come all the challenges of the COVID19 pandemic. Congratulations St Dominic’s Class of 2020, may God be with you every step of the way as you continue your life’s journey.” Mr Loring, Executive Headmaster “The Matric Class of 2020 navigated the challenges posed by COVID-19 with grit and resilience, often in difficult circumstances. We are exceptionally proud of their achieve- ments and are confident that this remarka- ble group of young women is well prepared for life after school. The matric results speak for themselves and are a testimony to the quality of education and superb staff at MARGARET LEE MORGAN SENNA-JADE ZANOTHANDO ANGELOS ARSALIDES RICHARD JACOBS ABDULLAH IQBAL St Dominic’s.” 8 distinctions 8 distinctions 7 distinctions Mrs Fitzgerald, Principal - Senior School 5 distinctions ROBINSON PARSONS KUBHEKA 8 distinctions 7 distinctions 5 distinctions

ALEXANDRA ANASTASIA PESIC CHLOË FARINHA CAITLIN CARISSA VAN CHANE LOTTER DE FREITAS 7 distinctions 4 distinctions DUNSMUIR ROOYEN IEB top 1% WILLIAM HARRISON BANELE MAJUBA CLAUDIO CARVALHO 5 distinctions 6 distinctions 6 distinctions (Maths Lit) 6 distinctions 5 distinctions 5 distinctions

JODIE KOLLIA KAYLEIGH LERATO THEMBA LAUREN LISA WAFUBWA MADELINE 4 distinctions TEELING 6 distinctions MEREDITH 5 distinctions SCRASE JADEN HAM LEFA MKHONTO 5 distinctions 4 distinctions 6 distinctions 5 distinctions 5 distinctions 6 Volume 35 No 12 [email protected] March 2021 Marist Brothers Linmeyer’s growth and development Marist Brothers Linmeyer has grown over the years. Below: The school undergoing construction in 1965. The school opened its doors in 1966.

Grade PR students: Megan Tandy, Brenda Britz (Grade PR Educator) and Sarah Neill.

Above: Grade PR students: New academic Athandwa Mngomezulu, Christo- year pher Williams and Khumo Mashigo. On Tuesday, 26 January and Thursday, 28 January, Marist Brothers, Linmeyer welcomed students into Grade PR (00) and Grade R (0). It was lovely to wit- ness the excitement amongst both Grade R students: Steffi and our parents and students as they Stephen Okoro. started their academic journey. New students were wished a very successful year in the ‘big’ Right: Dilano Costa (front), school. Cayla Reis (middle) and Erin Frazer (back). Precious Staat, Marketing Assistant

fathers are often the perpetrators. Above: Linmeyer as it is today. Family Rights with a Lenten Also of concern is that many of those men are not married to the focus on families mothers of their children. Streng- mong the many rights that peoples and the dignity of the poor, thening families as units, spiritu- Ethiopian and Eritrean we have, the right to life or respect for the natural environ- ally and practically, focusing on should be paramount. In ment, for to make something our marriage and parenthood are all community visited by A own, it is only to administer it for the some form, it is enshrined in most key ele-ments in building up the priest from home country constitutions, the UN Declaration good of all. Fratelli Tutti 122. family ministry in the Archdio- of Human Rights and the Church’s Pope Francis invites the Church cese. Marfam’s Family Year Charter of Family Rights and our to adopt two special commemora- Planner and booklets are some he Ethiopian and Eritrean Catholic Community South African Constitution. All tions, the Year of St Joseph which resources for this ministry and for Twas visited by young Ethiopian priest, Fr Gethaun human life is precious from the began on 8 December 2020 and families at home. Lenten resources Gebriel OMI. He was ordained on 13 May 2018 in St Hanna parish, Sadama first moment of existence until Amoris, the Year of the Family include a daily thoughts booklet, a Vicariate of Hosanna, Ethiopia by Rev Bishop Seyoum Fransua. begins on 19 March. The Pope’s During Fr Gethaun’s recent visit to South Africa, he celebrated Mass at natural death. weekly newsletter, stations of the apostolic letter on St Joseph “Patris St Francis of Assisi, Yeoville with the community’s chaplain Fr Joseph Concern for animal and plant Cross for families in different Corde” (with a father’s heart) Guduno, and also at St John the Baptist Chapel in Phokeng, Rustenburg. life and rights too, has become a languages and for the bereaved. Fr Gethaun also shared reflections through the community’s WhatsApp growing concern and the saying, describes the special qualities of See advert and visit group since churches were closed and planned cele-brations could not “extinction means forever” is a this man “in the background,” www.marfam.org.za, email take place. true consequence of lack of care whose rights and his role in the [email protected] or call family deserve greater attention. Hailu Adalo, Ethiopian and Eritrean Catholic Community National and commitment. A culture of life Toni Rowland 082 552 1275. Our country focuses frequently on Coordinator in South Africa. approach should not only focus on Toni Rowland rights from the perspective of gender-based violence and sadly, justice, but also of love and posi- tive relationships. All of creation is interrelated. We can speak of the “butterfly effect.” As an example, when a butterfly flaps its HEAVEN IS A REALITY wings in Dublin the energy it sets Reg. No 2003/047906/23 in motion can result in a tornado No Holiness, No Heaven in far-away Pietermaritzburg. The right to protection of life, in all forms and all its stages, as a We deal in wholesale & retail of: universal right is still far from being realized today. Bibles, Rosaries, Crucifix, Medals, Hymns, Pope Francis writes, “Underlying the Statues, Etc. principle of the common good is COMPARE OUR PRICES! respect for the human person endowed with basic and inalienable BRANCH BRANCH rights. It calls for the welfare of soci- Albertina Sisulu 15 Twist Street ety, social peace, stability and securi- 10th Street Cnr De Villiers Street Drill Hall (Opposite MTN Garage) ty provided by a certain order. Bezuidenhout Valley Johannesburg Johannesburg CBD Laudato Si’ 155. The rights of some to free enterprise and market freedom Tel 011 338-5077 WhatsApp Number +27 78 919 1515 cannot supersede the rights of

March 2021 [email protected] Volume 35 No 12 7 RIP – Forty years of changing the one example being how he was lives of Alexandra residents – rescued by a group of drunkards We celebrate Continued from page 1. after he was hijacked in the area a with our Priests few years ago. “Hands off our priest,” they had We celebrate the birthdays ordered. As they rescued him they and anniversaries took him to a tavern where he of the below clergy. was able to find a lift to the presbytery. Pray for them. Fr Cairns died on 6 February after admission to hospital for a Ordinations simple procedure to remove an ulcer on his foot. However, an Fr Joseph Luyombya 01-03-14 infection had developed in his Fr Aloysius Ssegwanyi 01-03-14 abdomen because of his chronic Rev Vincent Booysen 12-03-16 condition. The surgeons did all Rev Sang Ryomg Choi 12-03-16 St Hubert’s Catholic Church in Alexandra where Fr Ronald Cairns lived they could to clear the sepsis. Rev Dennis Gregory 12-03-16 Fr Ronald Cairns and fought for the community. After a 40-year legacy in Rev Robert Johnstone 12-03-16 Alexandra, not only has he left an Rev Louis Khumalo 12-03-16 against apartheid. various nationalities. He guided indelible mark in the lives of his Rev Simon Koenane 12-03-16 The history of the fight against and challenged them to be better beloved parishioners, but the Rev Philippe Lukusa- apartheid is incomplete without a Christians and to serve the Lord people of Alexandra as a whole. Lumpungu 12-03-16 mention of the role St Hubert and with heart, mind and soul. On He was laid to rest on 12 Feb- Rev Israel Maoyi 12-03-16 its priests, especially Fr Cairns, average, 25 people a day would ruary at Westpark cemetery. Rev Sebhamu Mashinini 12-03-16 played. visit his office, either for the Messages of condolence poured Rev Mchunu He chose, for all the years, to be Sacrament of Reconciliation, in from people from all walks of Mpumelelo 12-03-16 ever present in the fight against counselling and other issues. life, including “Father’s children Rev Paulos Mochesa 12-03-16 the socio-economic problems and Fr Cairns was a dedicated of the 80s in Alex” –prominent Rev Majorobela Moloi 12-03-16 unrest that plagued the township. servant establishing organisations politicians such as Rev Mnumzana He was also instrumental in the that provided much-needed Member of the Provincial Legis- Mpambani 12-03-16 transition to democracy in the 90s assistance to the community such lature, Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane, Rev Arthur Tsele 12-03-16 and, until his death, and as as a pre-school and a home for former premier of Gauteng, Paul Rev Johan van Rooyen 12-03-16 recently as 2019, he made the aged who often are rejected Mashatile, current Gauteng Rev Daryl Gabin 12-03-16 headlines speaking out about the by their families and society, Rev Vincent Morare 12-03-16 Fr Ronald Cairns met with Presi- premier, David Makhura and injustices people were those suffering with HIV/Aids dent and Gauteng Deputy Minister of Cooperative Fr Godfrey Kisabuli 13-03-10 experiencing in the area. and a feeding scheme serving Governance and Traditional Fr Timothy Wrenn 14-03-82 Premier David Makhura during pro- hundreds of people. tests in 2019. His congregation at St Hubert’s Affairs, Obed Bapela. Rev Vincent Morare 16-03-19 He was the people’s priest with was a melting pot of Catholics of Lerato Mohone Fr Albert Nolan 18-03-61 the priesthood on 14 January Fr Hubert Obaedo 19-03-12 1972 by Right Rev Bishop Anton Fr Miguel De Lemos 20-03-55 Reiterer MFSC in Victory Park. Zola welcomes Fr Inigo Alvarez Soon after his ordination, he Fr Joachim de Toledo 28-03-00 was appointed regional director of Fr Michael Seheri 29-03-09 the Christian Life Group and Holy Cross, Zola welcomed its new vocations director for the Oblates. priest, Fr Joachim Malunga on the feast of St Valentine. Birthdays in March In the ensuing years, he became The parish hopes that 1st Fr Jeemon Francis the Episcopal Vicar for Aids, Dean since he joined on of the Northern Deanery and them on this special 3rd Fr Joseph Nnadi Provincial of the Oblates Northern day dedicated to 4th Fr Nkosinathi Nkabinde Province. love, that this will 8th Rev Terence Fox Fr Cairns served stints in several always inspire a 14th Rev Sang Ryomg Choi parishes across the diocese. In deep mutual love for 23rd Fr James Towell 1981, he was appointed to Alex- each other. 23rd Fr John Panpogee andra, a township, for decades 24th Fr Michalowski Pawel referred to as the “dark city” Fr Joachim with parish 29th Rev Keith McKenzie because it had no electricity and pastoral council chair- continues to have wide-ranging person, Ntombifuthi Ndlovu. challenges besetting the com- Fr Joachim is pictured with munity, yet Fr Cairns would not members of the St Anne Sodality live anywhere else. after Mass. The township played a lead- AD news ing role in waging war Published by the Catholic Archdiocese of Johannesburg, Pvt Bag X10, Doornfontein, 2028. 186 Nugget St, Berea. Twelve issues per annum. Circulation 15 000 copies per issue. Distributed to all parishes of the Archdiocese of Johannesburg. Editor: Anna Cox Cell 083 610-0439 Chancery office: 011 402-6400 Fax: 011 402-6406 Chancery cell: 079 040-0668 [email protected] Reporter: Judy Stockill 083 267-7070 Reporter: Lerato Mohone 064 664-6339 Letters Editor: Mike Kennedy 082 904-8980 Advertising: Lerato Mohone

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8 Volume 35 No 12 [email protected] March 2021 Left: Abusiswe Mbhele after Ash Wednesday Mass at Holy Rosary, Phiri.

arishioners at Holy Rosary, Phiri were among Pmillions of Catholics who observed Ash Wednesday differently this year. Unlike previous years, this day fell in the middle of a global pandemic. Covid-19 protocols bad to be observed to prevent the infection of congregants. The Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference issued a directive that the blessed ashes should either be sprinkled on the crown of the head or sprinkled 2021 on one hand of the person Left: Zandi Dubazana, Sandra Lese- Above: Fr Bonga Mkhize of receiving them, with the indi- mang, Tebo Modise and Seipati Khoa- St Peter Claver, Pimville viduals making the sign of the rai-Sehloho attend Ash Wednesday celebrates Ash Wednesday cross on their own foreheads. Mass at Holy Rosary, Phiri. Mass. Parish priest, Fr Michael Seheri opted for the latter. Four Lenten Appeal continued from page 1. Once more, the SACBC Bishops’ Lenten Appeal Ash Wednesday masses were Every year, the Southern African Catholic Office would like to thank you for taking your time to held to allow 50 congregants to Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) organises the annual look at this correspondence and consider how you will attend each Mass. Lenten Appeal which is a collection that is taken in be open to new possibilities of supporting the works Not too far from Holy Rosary, all parishes and dioceses within the Conference area of the Church during this Holy Season. parishioners at St Peter Claver, during Lent. This money is used for the works of Let us continue to believe, love and hope because Pimville also observed the Ash the Conference, amongst others: Justice and Peace, this is how Jesus changes our lives on the journey Wednesday Mass under the new Communication, Liturgy and the assistance of the through Lent. Keeping in mind the pillars of the normal, all within Covid-19 poor and needy. We are seeking new ways to do the Lenten journey - prayer, fasting and almsgiving, not protocols. Newly-appointed weekly collections for the Lenten Appeal during forgetting that this is a time for reconciliation and to Fr Bonga Mkhize led his flock 2021. be ready for the light of Easter. during evening Mass, which was We are appealing to all our Diocesan and Parish With thanks and prayers. held outside in the parking area Pastoral Councils to look at options as to how we with parishioners observing can continue to support the poor and needy and the social distancing. works of the Church. We have one suggestion, and Thabile Mbhele Tebogo Modise making a sign of the that is to make the banking account details available Bro. Ashley Tillek, OFM cross on her forehead after receiv- to the people of God for all of them to be able to National Lenten Appeal Director ing blessed ashes. contribute during this period. 800th Anniversary of St Dominic’s death – Continued from page 1. Grade 1 learners ring in their school career n Friday, 5 February, Grade 1 learners at Sacred Heart OCollege, Observatory each had a turn to ring the bell near the school chapel. This tradition, now in its fifth year, marks the start of their school career. At the end of this year, the 2021 Matric class will ring the bell at their Valedictory Mass to mark the end of their school career. The history of the bell at Sacred Heart College Both the bell and the College At the table with St Dominic: Mascarella painting, Bologna. Chapel have a rich history and are of particular significance to the Fr Martin pointed to the pandemic until there is a just College, which is one of five Marist challenges facing global health, balance between our human schools in the country and 140 which cannot rely on cooperation needs and the resources available worldwide. The bell came from the among countries and peoples, to us, he said. There is a need for Third General House of the Marist and which therefore struggles to community to stand together in Brothers in Grugliasco, Italy where it deal with a global pandemic. mutual nurturing and protection, had hung since the late eighteen Participants were reminded not in the free-for-all of everyone hundreds. The first General House that we depend on nature and for him/herself. was in France at the Hermitage just outside St Chamond. As the Marist nature depends on us for the Fr Martin reminded the order grew, it moved to the Second balance, giving rise to well- gathering that the General General House at St Genis Laval, being, the so-called ‘doughnut Chapter of the brethren of 2019 Lyon, but when all religious insti- economy’. In such an economy it identified three manifestations of tutes were expelled from France in is important that there is a global the dis-ease in our communities: 1903, the brothers moved to the change of mind, from autonomy growing individualism, the Third General House at Grugliasco in to community, from indifference fragility of community life, and northern Italy. In 1958, this General- to passion. the obstacle of excessive ate was moved to Rome at which died in the First World War (1914 – by Hungarian sculptor and artist, St Dominic is presented in the apostolic activism. On the other time Brother Jordan, who was the 1918) are commemorated with a Zoltan Borbereki. Mascarella painting as a saint in hand, to be ‘experts in com- Principal of Sacred Heart College in plaque that hangs in the College Today, the historically-significant fellowship, as a companion. A munion’ means to work hard at the late fifties, and who was Hall. The current chapel at Sacred Grugliasco bell and the College Heart College was erected in 1956 Chapel form a new tradition that heresy of our time is the capital- the synergies of our lives. We responsible for the building of the Chapel, asked that the bell at as a mem-orial to the past pupils will become part of the personal ism of the late 20th and early have, as Dominicans, a response st Grugliasco, which had called the who fought and fell for their journey of each Sacred Heart stu- 21 centuries: the doctrine of to the needs of our times which brothers to prayer and meals for country during the Second World dent. This historic bell rings in the limitless profit comes at the cost is as pertinent as it was in the over 50 years, be given to the War (1939 – 1945). Gazing down new year and the start of a long of human community and the time of St Dominic: to love the College for its chapel. from behind the altar of the chapel academic journey. planet’s resources. And so we are world, one another, and our place Many Sacred Heart College past is a statue of Marcellin Champag- www.sacredheart.co.za called to live in a state of at the table of creation. pupils gave their lives in the two nat, the founder of the Marist for more information. Sr Alison Munro World Wars. The 49 Old Boys who Brothers. The statue was sculpted Lynn Walker , Marketing Manager March 2021 [email protected] Volume 35 No 12 9