Kristo iNkosi Parish in Springs Marks 70 years

by Kati Dijane · February 22, 2024

By Kati Dijane – Although February 14 marked the beginning of Lent in the church’s calendar this year, jubilation was in the air at Kristo iNkosi Catholic Church in Springs on February 17 as the parish celebrated 70 years of existence. The day started with His Grace, Archbishop Buti Tlhagale, planting the seventh tree as a symbol of the seven decades of the church’s existence. Six trees were planted by parishioners weeks before the main celebration.

His Grace was joined by priests and brothers from the order of the Dominicans, the dean of the far east rand deanery and parish priest of Kristo iNkosi Catholic Church, Father Chaka Motanyane, Father Michael Benette, parish priest of St Paul, Tsakane, Father Raphael Ntlou, parish priest of St Rose of Lima, Delmas, Father Wilbroad Mulenga, parish priest of Our Lady of Mercy, Springs, Father Earnest Mwape, who lives in the Dominican Provincial House in Mondeor, Father Vincent Mokete, and Deacon Vincent Morare from Daveyton parishes, as well as recently ordained Father Lephuthing, from St Anthony Pucci in Duduza.

The church was filled to the brim as many wanted to witness this milestone. The choir and the marimba youth band gave an invigorating musical experience during Mass, so much so, that His Grace invited them to the opening of Our Lady of Mercy shrine in Magaliesburg, scheduled to take place in April. During Mass, 45 young people, most of whom are from the marimba band, were confirmed. During his homily, His Grace asked those present, especially those above the age of 45, how many people they had influenced to become followers of Christ, how far they had come on the road to holiness, as well as the kind of conversion they had undertaken over the years to be closer to God and heaven. He also encouraged the youth to dream big and do well at school, as that was the main thing parents expected from them.

Another highlight of the Mass was witnessing one of the two members of the church who are 99 years old and was blessed by the archbishop. The church was then promised a book that would trace the history of Kristo iNkosi as a tangible reminder of not only the day, but also how far it has come. After Mass, people were treated to good food, great music and spectacular entertainment. As many parishioners and visitors attested, fun was indeed had and was one of the greatest starts to the year.