Seven Holy Founders Parish Celebrates Its Patron Saints
By Kati Dijane – Hundreds of parishioners, dressed in vibrant traditional attire, gathered in Ratanda, in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg, to celebrate a special feast—the feast of their patron saints, the Seven Holy Founders. The atmosphere was one of joy and unity with Mass celebrated by the parish priest, Father Francis Kajjubi, OSM.
The story of the Seven Holy Founders dates back to the year 1233 in Florence, Italy. Seven men—wealthy merchants who felt called to a deeper spiritual life—left behind their businesses and devoted themselves entirely to prayer and service. Inspired by Mother Mary, they established the Order of the Servants of Mary, commonly known as the Servites. Their mission? To live a life of simplicity, prayer and charity, honouring Mary and serving those in need.
Over the centuries, the Servites spread across the world, bringing their message of faith and compassion to different communities. Southern Africa played a key role in the expansion of the order in Africa, with Servite missionaries establishing strong foundations in South Africa, Eswatini, and Uganda. Today, the Servite spirit continues to thrive, touching lives through pastoral care and social outreach.
During his homily, Father Kajjubi reflected on the readings of the day: 1 Samuel 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23 and Luke 6:27-38, emphasising a powerful theme—love and forgiveness.
He shared the story of David and Saul, two men in conflict. Saul, consumed by jealousy, sought to kill David. Yet, when David had the chance to take revenge, he chose mercy instead, saying: “Who can lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed and be guiltless?” (1 Sam 26:9).
Bringing this lesson home, Father Kajjubi posed a thought-provoking question to the congregation:
“Which school do you belong to? The school of Abishai, who wanted revenge, or the school of David, who chose love and forgiveness?”
In the Gospel, Jesus reinforces this teaching: “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:27-28). But Father Kajjubi acknowledged a reality we all know—forgiveness is not easy.
“It’s human nature to retaliate when we are hurt. Many families, marriages and friendships have been broken because of unforgiveness,” he said. “But forgiveness brings healing. It may not be easy, but it is necessary. Some of the burdens we carry don’t need prayers alone; they need the willingness to forgive and seek forgiveness.”
He urged the youth to embrace this wisdom early in life, as older generations have learned the hard way that holding onto resentment only leads to pain and unhappiness.
“Humbling yourself to say ‘I am sorry’ could be the start of a peaceful life,” he added.
The feast day continued after Mass, making it a family celebration. Father Kajjubi expressed his joy at seeing the parish community come together in such a beautiful way.
“This is a time to revive our family spirit, to celebrate our faith and to remember our spiritual fathers—the Seven Holy Founders,” he said.
