Ursuline Sisters Celebrate 90 Years in South Africa and First Professions
Top left: First Profession of Sr Francis Ngiba SU and Sr Augustine Mbanjwa SU. Top right: The first five missionaries to the SA Province. Bottom: Ursuline Sisters 90th Anniversary celebration.
By Sr Margaret Mary Makuwerere – On the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Ursuline Sisters of Mthatha Diocese celebrated 90 years of mission in South Africa (1934-2024) and the first profession of two young sisters, Sr Francis Ngiba SU and Sr Augustine Mbanjwa SU.
The Ursuline Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary were founded in 1606 in France by Anne De Xainctonge. Over the last 418 years, they have spread to many parts of the world, including South Africa in 1934, where sisters thrived in education, pastoral ministries, medical assistance, social work, and other forms of service, all aimed at empowering the communities they serve.
In gratitude to God, the province celebrated its 90th Anniversary on December 9, alongside the first profession of Sr Francis and Sr Augustine. The theme chosen for the Anniversary was, Empowered by the Holy Spirit to witness God’s Love adapted from Acts 1:8. The event was honoured by the presence of Bishop Sithembele Sipuka of the Mthatha Diocese, along with priests, religious brothers and sisters, and many members of the Catholic and non-Catholic community. Their attendance highlighted the significant impact the sisters have had on their lives.
In his homily, Bishop Sipuka spoke about the strong and assertive nature of Mother Mary. He encouraged the Sisters to embrace a similar boldness, combined with humility and respect, “How can this be, since I’m only a virgin?” (Luke 1:34) This kind of boldness, he said, will help the Sisters to confidently serve God fully with comprehension and use the gifts He has given to them to help others. He reminded the Sisters that they are called to dedicate their efforts to the service of God’s people.
The Ursuline South African Province is forever grateful to God for how far they have come and to those who made the day special. The Province wishes their young sisters a sweet and loving journey with the Lord.
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