Far East Rand Deanery celebrates Imbokodo/Women’s Day
By Kati Dijane – Imbokodo is a Zulu word that means “rock” and is used in the saying ‘Wathint’ Abafazi, Wathint’ Imbokodo ‘, which means “You Strike a Woman, You Strike a Rock”. And so, on Women’s Day, August 9, over 350 women filled St Paul Catholic Church in Tsakane, Archdiocese of Johannesburg, to celebrate the day.
Dressed in black – a naturally sombre colour- the women brightened their outfits with colourful headwraps. Mass was led by the dean of the Far East rand, Fr Chaka Motanyane, with parish priest Fr Michael Bennette and Deacon Vincent Morare. Young people, as well as the parish choir, led the music liturgy. In his homily, Fr Motanyane shared the importance of Women’s Day, highlighting the historic march of women in 1956. He asked women what they were marching or fighting against currently. He also added that women have to be progressive and in support of one another.
The second part of the event included inspirational talks from guests from various organisations, such as the education department, and NGOs in the community that deal with social issues. The event was also supported by the PPC and men of the parish who provided security. As part of the big feast, a cow was slaughtered as part of the great meal offered to guests who were present. Food, music and great talks were the order of the day of this deanery initiative to remind women of their worth and importance in the church and in society.
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