Bishop Selemela on the Role of the Military Ordinariate in South Africa
By Father Mathibela Sebothoma
Photo credit: Father Silas Rangwaga
Bronkhorstspruit, Pretoria – In an insightful conversation held at the Sizanani Conference Centre, Auxiliary Bishop Masilo Selemela of the Archdiocese of Pretoria shed light on the role and responsibilities of the Military Ordinariate in Southern Africa.
The Military Ordinariate, which falls under the Archdiocese of Pretoria, has a long history dating back to 1951 when it was established as a vicariate. In 1986, it was elevated to a full ordinariate, tasked with providing spiritual and pastoral care to military personnel and their families. “An ordinariate is an independent entity with a bishop who is responsible for the spiritual welfare of those entrusted to him within the military,” explained Bishop Selemela.
However, unlike most military ordinariates worldwide, South Africa’s remains attached to a diocese. This means that the Archbishop of Pretoria, currently Archbishop Dabula Mpako, is also the Military Ordinary of South Africa. His primary duty is to ensure that Catholic soldiers and their families receive adequate spiritual support.
Pastoral Responsibilities in the Military
The Military Ordinariate’s mission includes appointing chaplains to serve the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), particularly at the military parish in Thaba Tshwane. These chaplains provide sacraments, marriage counseling, and moral support to soldiers and their families.
Bishop Selemela highlighted the significant challenges faced by military personnel, especially those deployed on peacekeeping missions in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Mozambique. “These men and women face life-threatening situations daily. Their families, left behind, live with constant anxiety, not knowing if their loved ones will return home,” he said.
The Church plays a crucial role in offering spiritual solace, prayer support, and counseling to these families. “Our mission is to stand with them, reassure them, and help them find strength in their faith,” he added.
Jubilee Year of Hope for the Armed Forces
As the Church prepares for the Jubilee Year in 2025, military personnel will participate in a special pilgrimage to Rome. “This weekend, military bishops and chaplains from around the world, along with soldiers and their families, will pass through the Holy Doors of the major basilicas in Rome,” Bishop Selemela explained.
The Jubilee Year carries a dual meaning: a call for spiritual renewal and an opportunity for soldiers to seek reconciliation with God. “The Holy Father will remind them that their commitment to peacekeeping is supported by the Church. In a world torn by conflict—whether in Israel and Palestine, Ukraine, Sudan, Mozambique, or the DRC—soldiers play a vital role in protecting human dignity and upholding peace,” he said.
The bishop also emphasized the humanitarian role of the military in supporting refugees and displaced people. “Many soldiers assist in providing aid, securing safe zones, and ensuring that those fleeing conflict receive the care they need. The Church’s presence in these efforts reassures them that their work is not in vain.”
Honouring Fallen Heroes
Recent news of 14 South African soldiers killed in the DRC has deeply affected the nation. Bishop Selemela extended his condolences to their families, calling them heroes and martyrs of peace.
“These men and women laid down their lives not just to prevent war but to ensure peace across the continent. Their sacrifice must never be forgotten,” he said.
In honour of these fallen soldiers, the Archdiocese of Pretoria will hold a special Security Cluster Day on 22 February, during which all parishes will pray for those serving in security forces. “We invite everyone to remember our soldiers, police officers, correctional service officials, traffic officers, and security personnel who work tirelessly to maintain peace and safety in our country,” he added.
A special Mass will also be celebrated for the repose of the souls of the fallen soldiers. “We are grateful for their service, and we stand in solidarity with their families, offering our prayers and support.”
A Call for Continued Prayer and Support
The Military Ordinariate extends beyond the SANDF, offering pastoral care to police officers, municipal law enforcement, traffic officials, correctional services, and private security personnel. “All these men and women form part of the security cluster, and their work is essential in maintaining order and stability in society,” Bishop Selemela stated.
As South Africa navigates a complex and often volatile security landscape, Bishop Selemela urged the faithful to pray for those in uniform. “We must recognise their sacrifices and continue to support them spiritually. Our duty as a Church is to be present, to provide guidance, and to remind them that their work contributes to God’s mission of peace.”
“Let us remember our security forces in our prayers, honour the fallen, and support those who continue to serve. In doing so, we affirm their role in building a more just and peaceful world.”
The full interview by this journalist was published on the SACBC Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzQuKsQLNC8
