Southern Deanery Celebrates Holy Trinity with Unity, Prayer and Generosity
By Fr Mathibela Sebothoma – Pretoria
On Saturday, hundreds of Catholic faithful from the Southern Deanery gathered at Saulsville Arena, west of Pretoria, to mark the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. The event was not merely a Mass—it was a vibrant celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope and a joyful witness to synodality in action.
Parishioners, clergy, religious and young people from across the deanery filled the arena with songs, prayers and warm fellowship, embracing the day’s theme of communion, participation and mission. The atmosphere was spiritually charged, echoing the Church’s global call to walk together as Pilgrims of Hope.
The Archbishop of Pretoria, Most Rev. Dabula Mpako, presided over the Holy Mass and delivered a powerful homily on the significance of the Holy Trinity in the life of the Church and society. “The Trinity is not just a mystery to be admired—it is a way of life,” the Archbishop said. “Our God is unity in diversity. This divine relationship teaches us how to live in mutual love, respect and shared responsibility.”
He highlighted how the life of the Trinity invites the Church to live out its mission through listening, dialogue and co-responsibility—principles at the heart of a synodal Church. “Synodality is not a trend or experiment. It is how the Church lives the life of the Trinity: united, diverse and outward-looking.”
Archbishop Mpako also reflected on South Africa’s broader social challenges. “Whether it is family conflict, political instability, or environmental destruction—these stem from a failure to live in communion. The wisdom of the Trinity calls us to move beyond selfishness and individualism towards a more just and inclusive society.”
Fr John-Paul Mathebula, Dean of the Southern Deanery, echoed this message in his address to the faithful. “Today is not just a celebration—it is a declaration of intent. We are committing ourselves to become a Church that is spiritually mature, self-sustaining and self-propagating,” he said. “Our Jubilee is a call to action—an invitation to build a Church that can stand strong amid the challenges we face.”
The occasion also featured a major fundraising initiative for the Archdiocese of Pretoria. The deanery collectively raised R296,700—a remarkable expression of generosity and unity. Parishioners of all ages took part, contributing joyfully and with a sense of mission.
Auxiliary Bishop Masilo Selemela commended the faithful, saying, “When we give generously, we open our hearts to God’s blessings. This is how we become a Church that owns its mission—one that is proud, self-reliant and fully alive in the Spirit.”
He made a heartfelt appeal to the youth to begin saving for the Church’s future. “Even if you’re still in school, saving R3 a week is a powerful start. It teaches responsibility and ensures that the Church continues to grow with your support,” he said.
Mr Michael Tloubatla, chairperson of the Southern Deanery organising committee, described the event as “a spirit-filled and awe-inspiring celebration of faith.” He continued, “We witnessed the presence of the Holy Spirit in our prayers, our unity, and our generosity. We truly lived out our identity as Pilgrims of Hope.”
Justin Whitehead, chairperson of the Southern Deanery Pastoral Council, opened the celebration by welcoming attendees. “It’s not often that we come together like this as a deanery,” he said. “This is a special moment of unity and gratitude—a chance to connect, reflect and grow together.”
The celebration also included musical performances, vibrant liturgical dancing, and input sessions that explored the Church’s synodal journey. These activities reinforced the themes of dialogue, listening and co-responsibility, encouraging attendees to deepen their role in building a synodal Church.
A breakdown of parish contributions was as follows:
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Emmanuel Catholic Church, Phomolong – R8,000
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Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Ivory Park – R20,000
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Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Olifantsfontein – R20,000
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Maria Regina Catholic Church, Lyttelton – R30,000
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Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Midrand – R35,000
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Moya Catholic Church, Tembisa – R20,000
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Our Lady Queen of Peace, Thaba Tshwane – R2,700
- Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Diepsloot: R20, 000
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St Matthew Catholic Church, Tembisa – R20,000
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St Agnes Catholic Church, Olivenhoutbosch – R16,000
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St Stephanie Catholic Church, Tembisa – R10,000
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St Thomas More Catholic Church, Monavoni – R70,000
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St Vincent Catholic Church, Tembisa – R20,000
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Deanery Youth – R5,000
This collective effort reflects the vibrancy and unity of the Southern Deanery, with contributions from parishes representing both urban and township communities. The youth’s participation was especially noteworthy, indicating a growing sense of responsibility among the next generation.
Bishop Selemela made a special call for long-term vision, advocating for Church-owned infrastructure. “Imagine if this arena belonged to us—what we could do for worship, training, and community empowerment. We must begin investing in such dreams now.”
As the sun set on the day’s celebrations, the spirit of gratitude and renewed commitment was palpable. Parishioners left the arena energised by the call to live the Trinitarian values of unity, love and shared purpose.
In closing, Archbishop Mpako reminded all present: “The Trinity is not just a doctrine—it is our model for being Church. Let us go forth as a Trinitarian people: rooted in love, committed to unity, and always moving outward in mission.”
The Southern Deanery’s celebration at Saulsville Arena was more than a gathering—it was a bold step towards becoming a truly synodal and mission-driven Church, alive with the Spirit of the Trinity and filled with hope for the future.
