The diocese of Eshowe in KwaZulu-Natal celebrated the renovation and upgrade of the shrine of Our Lady of Fatima with a diocesan pilgrimage.
“The shine had fallen into neglect after the departure of the Benedictines from Germany, who had cared for it in the past. It was vandalised and desecrated by local trespassers over a number of years. The once so beautiful big church and the other mission station buildings virtually became cattle and goats kraals,” said Eshowe Catholic Kwazi Marcus Shandu.
Cardinal Wilfrid Napier, administrator of the diocese of Eshowe, “was instrumental in pushing for the revival and the restoration of the place,” Mr Shandu said.
The proceedings were opened by Cardinal Napier and Bishop Thulani Victor Mbuyisa of Kokstad blessed the new sanctuary and statue of Our Lady, as well as the religious items brought by pilgrims. He also celebrated the pilgrimage Mass.
A penitential service was led by Fr Sfiso Ntshangase, and a healing service by Fr Ngcebo Zulu. The pilgrimage also included a rosary procession, with the statue of Our Lady being carried, led by the Catholic Women’s League. Submitted by Kwazi Shandu
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