7 September 2024 – Pretoria
Men from across the Archdiocese of Pretoria gathered at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart for the historic official launch of the Sodality of Saint Joseph. This significant day marked the formal recognition of the sodality, which was initially founded in the North Eastern Deanery and later expanded to the Eastern Deanery.
During the launch, the sodality leaders presented an interim constitution and a flag to Archbishop Dabula Mpako. The men also made a solemn pledge to be faithful members, committing themselves to living out the values of Saint Joseph. Archbishop Mpako called upon all men to become evangelisers and advocates for gender equality, encouraging the sodality to extend its reach across the entire Archdiocese.
As part of this historic occasion, Archbishop Mpako appointed Fr Jerome Anakese MCCJ, parish priest of St Daniel Comboni in Mahube, Mamelodi, as the chaplain of the sodality. His appointment underlines the Archbishop’s desire for strong spiritual leadership within the newly established sodality.
The interim committee of the Sodality of Saint Joseph was also announced:
- Chairperson: Lucas Moswana
- Vice Chairperson: Morris Phahle
- Secretary: Peter Maboya
- Vice Secretary: Antony Mhini
- Treasurer: Mashao Itsweng
- Additional Members: David Lekala and David Lekalakala
“We are happy and excited because today the Church is recognising us as a formal structure within the Roman Catholic Church. We are no longer going to be hidden or ignored. Let us rejoice and be glad,” said Mr. Lucas Moswana, expressing the collective joy of the men present.
A Call for Men to Emulate Saint Joseph
Archbishop Mpako emphasised the significance of the day, urging men to model their lives on Saint Joseph’s virtues. “This is a very important day in the life of the Archdiocese. For the first time, we are formally establishing the Sodality of Saint Joseph. It is no longer limited to a parish or a deanery. The Church is looking for men who will represent the values and spirituality of Saint Joseph, which are greatly needed in 2024.”
Saint Joseph, the foster father of Jesus, was highlighted as a model for men in their roles as protectors, nurturers, and examples of integrity. The Archbishop encouraged the men not to be satisfied with merely wearing the sodality’s uniform but to actively embody Saint Joseph’s virtues in their daily lives, becoming agents of transformation within both the Church and society.
Saint Joseph’s Role in the Church
Archbishop Mpako referred to the 2013 decree Paternas vices, which added Saint Joseph’s name to the Eucharistic Prayers. The decree highlighted Saint Joseph as a model of kindness, humility, and responsibility—qualities the Archbishop urged the sodality members to adopt. “God gives Saint Joseph as a model for all Christians, but especially for Christian men. We are excited because now, as men, we can reflect the example of Saint Joseph. He was a just and righteous man,” said the Archbishop.
Taking a Stand Against Gender-Based Violence
The Archbishop also called on the men to lead the fight against gender-based violence (GBV), a widespread issue in South Africa. He reminded them of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s description of GBV as a national pandemic, stressing that many of the perpetrators of such violence are men, including some who identify as Christian
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“As men, let us be like Saint Joseph and be good examples to other men and boys. Women are not possessions to be controlled. We must allow them to flourish and reach their full potential. Love means committing to what is good for the other. I urge you, in all your programmes, to always uphold the dignity of women,” said Archbishop Mpako.
He encouraged the sodality members to engage in dialogue with other men about gender-based violence, both in their homes and workplaces, and stressed that men must lead the fight to end this crisis.
A Day of Celebration and Commitment
The launch was attended by family members and representatives from other sodalities, demonstrating a spirit of unity and commitment to the Church’s mission. The event concluded with a meal prepared by the Catholic Women’s Association, symbolising a collaborative and inclusive Church that values service and dignity.
Archbishop Mpako’s message was clear: the Sodality of Saint Joseph must become a beacon of hope, promoting gender equality and justice while reflecting the virtues of Saint Joseph in every aspect of life. The journey has begun, and the men of the Archdiocese of Pretoria are ready to answer the call.
