SOUTH AFRICA: Helping train future priests in rural South African diocese

Young men hoping to become priests in a South African diocese are having their lives transformed by their seminary training – despite coming from impoverished rural townships.

Letsoara Tshediso told Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) – which is supporting the country’s future priests: “My time in the seminary has changed my life and has not only made me a servant of God, but also someone firmly determined to live the values of the Gospel.”

Four seminarians are currently in formation for the priesthood in Klerksdorp Diocese, Northwest Province.

The area has a population of 1.8 million, of whom roughly 117,000 are Catholics – with 31 priests ministering to them.

There were few vocations in the diocese until 2017 when Bishop Victor Hlolo Phalana of Klerksdorp opened the seminary to young men from other African countries which has seen an increase in numbers.

With help from ACN the seminary has produced 11 new priests who are currently serving in the diocese, and others working in other dioceses of South Africa.

But the bishop told the charity that due to few employment opportunities in the region the church’s resources are poor.

Letsoara Tshediso said: “Every stage of my formation was a step towards a better understanding of my own vocation – and the enormous responsibility associated with it of serving the People of God.

He added: “For me the seminary is a sacred space, where I have experienced a profound encounter with Christ, through the Eucharist, the Sacred Scriptures and the people I have been able to serve during my practical pastoral training.

“This has deepened my love for the Church and strengthened my determination to devote myself to her mission.”

Fellow seminarian Thapelo Michael thanked ACN benefactors for their help on behalf of his fellow seminarians.

He said: “I would like to thank you for your support. I am firmly convinced that without your help I would not be where I am today.

“The generosity you have shown me gives me the strength to give of my best each day.

“It motivates me and reminds me of the words of Christ: ‘Behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age’ [Mt 28:20].

“So I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart. And I promise to pray for you all.”