Holy Spouses Catholic Church Celebrates Dedication and Confirmation Ceremony
15 December 2024 – Soshanguve
By Father Mathibela Sebothoma
The parishioners of Holy Spouses Catholic Church in Soshanguve celebrated a momentous occasion as Archbishop Dabula Mpako presided over the dedication of their newly constructed church building. The event marked a significant milestone for the parish community, which played a pivotal role in raising the funds necessary to bring their vision to life.
Archbishop Mpako commended Father Pius Phala of the Congregation of the Sacred Stigmata (Stigmatines) and the members of Holy Spouses Catholic Church for their commitment and collaboration in building the new church. “The bulk of the fundraising was done by the parishioners of Holy Spouses Catholic Church,” the Archbishop said, emphasizing the importance of local initiatives. He reiterated the vision of the local church under his leadership: “To rely less on foreign donors and instead utilise local resources and creativity to build a self-sustaining church.”
Focus on the Faithful as the Living Church
In his homily, Archbishop Mpako reminded the congregation that the dedication of the church building is a symbol of their deeper calling as the living church. “Even as we consecrate the new building for worship and liturgy, we are reminded that we are the real church. God is happier to dwell in us—in our hearts, minds, and spirits, and in our daily lives,” he said.
Referring to Jesus as the living cornerstone of the temple of God, he called on the faithful to worship “in spirit and in truth.” The Archbishop highlighted that the true church is not limited to physical structures but is embodied in the lives of the people who carry Christ’s light into the world.
Confirmation: A Beginning, Not an End
The celebration also included the sacrament of Confirmation for 48 young people and several adults. Archbishop Mpako encouraged the confirmands to view this sacrament as the start of their journey with the Holy Spirit. “Confirmation is not the end of the Christian journey but only the beginning. Carry the Holy Spirit of God wherever you find yourselves,” he urged.
Liturgical Rites of Dedication
The dedication ceremony included several profound liturgical rites, each rich in symbolism:
- Anointing of the Altar and Walls: The altar was anointed with chrism, signifying Christ as “The Anointed One.” The anointing of the church walls symbolised the building’s perpetual dedication to Christian worship.
- Incensation: Incense burned on the altar represented Christ’s sacrifice ascending to God and the prayers of the faithful rising to heaven. The congregation was incensed first, underscoring their role as the living temple of God.
- Covering and Lighting of the Altar: The altar was adorned and lit, symbolising it as the Lord’s table where the Eucharistic banquet is celebrated. The lighting of the church reminded the faithful that Christ is the light of the world, shining through the Church to illuminate humanity.
Looking Ahead
The celebration at Holy Spouses Catholic Church reflects a broader commitment to fostering self-reliance and spiritual growth within the local church. Archbishop Mpako’s words inspire the faithful to embody their calling as the living temple of God, taking the light of Christ into their communities.
As the day concluded, the parishioners left with hearts full of gratitude, ready to continue their journey of faith in their newly consecrated church—a sacred space built through their unwavering dedication and love for God.
Holy Spouses Catholic Church: A Journey of Faith, Resilience, and Community
Nestled in Soshanguve Ext 2, Holy Spouses Catholic Church stands as a testament to the unwavering faith and determination of its congregants. Its history, which spans nearly three decades, is a profound story of perseverance, generosity, and devotion.
The Humble Beginnings
In 1996, Fr Severino Salvoro, a Stigmatine Missionary, recognised the need for a local outstation to serve the Catholics of Soshanguve South Extension 2 and surrounding areas. Many faithful were traveling long distances to attend Holy Mass, prompting Fr Severino to act. In collaboration with committed individuals such as Ms Mdluli, Ms Machikiri, Ms Nokeba, and Ms Senamela, he sought permission from the then-Archbishop of Pretoria, Most Reverend George Daniel, to establish an outstation.
The mission began humbly, with Fr Severino and a small group of congregants conducting house visitations to locate Catholics in the area. They were soon joined by the late Mr Obed Dube, a dedicated Lay Minister who played a significant role in leading Sunday services and ministering funerals.
Worshipping Under Trees and in Shacks
By 1998, the Catholic community began to grow. Their first Eucharistic Celebration was held under a tree. However, adverse weather conditions forced the congregation to relocate to Ms Martina Mdluli’s home, and later to a shack used as a storage space for chairs at a nearby school. Even this was insufficient as the congregation grew, leading them to use a PUTCO bus that also served as a community clinic.
The resourcefulness of the congregants during these early years was remarkable. Every Sunday, chairs were borrowed from Itumeleng Madiba Primary School, and the outstation became known as Itumeleng Catholic Church.
Growth and Leadership
In 1999, Fr Sylvester Motlhokoa succeeded Fr Severino. That year, a church choir was formed, and the first parish council was elected. During one rainy Sunday, Fr Michael D’Annucci visited the congregation and was moved by their plight. Determined to help, he built a more permanent structure in 2000, which remains in use today.
Fr Michael envisioned a vibrant church that promoted family life, marriage preparation, and community development. He renamed the outstation “Holy Spouses” in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Joseph. Tragically, Fr Michael passed away in December 2001 before fulfilling his vision.
The Stigmatine Fathers, including Fr Steven Senaldi, Fr Gianni Piccolboni, Fr Angelo Dusi, and Fr Patrick Rakeketsi, ensured that the mission continued. Over the years, the parish was shepherded by dedicated priests, including Fr Nel Sello Matlala, Fr Geoffrey Mkumbata, Fr Jacob Banda, and Fr Emmanuel Morweng.
Building the Church
By 2021, under the leadership of Fr Thabiso Pious Phala, the congregation embarked on an ambitious project to build a permanent church. The establishment of a building committee marked a turning point. Parishioners contributed through donations, food sales, and other fundraising initiatives, with sister parishes and sodalities also lending their support.
Transparency in financial reporting motivated the community to give generously. The parish’s collective effort demonstrated their self-reliance and commitment to building a sustainable church.
A Thriving Community
Today, Holy Spouses Catholic Church is more than a place of worship; it is a thriving community. It boasts 25 altar servers, four funeral leaders, one Eucharistic minister, 12 catechists, and a vibrant parish choir. The church is divided into eight sections: Holy Family, Guardian Angels, St Matthias Murumba, St Francis of Assisi, St Theresa, St Clement, St Martin de Porres, and St Ignatius.
A Legacy of Gratitude
The congregation expresses heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the building of their church. Through faith, hard work, and God’s grace, their vision has become a reality.
“To God be the glory!”
