By Kati Dijane—On March 13, Catholics worldwide commemorated the 12th anniversary of Pope Francis’ election as the head of the Catholic Church. In Southern Africa, the milestone was marked by a special Mass at St John Vianney Major Seminary in Pretoria, led by Archbishop Dabula Mpako of the Pretoria Archdiocese.
The Mass was attended by esteemed members of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference, including Bishop Sithembele Sipuka of Mthatha Diocese, Bishop José Luis Gerardo Ponce de León IMC of Eswatini Diocese, Bishop Robert Mphiwe of Rustenburg Diocese, Archbishop Emeritus George Daniels of Pretoria and Archbishop Emeritus Buti Tlhagale OMI of Johannesburg. Also present were distinguished guests representing various embassies and the Deputy Director of the South African Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Advocate Shireen Said. The St John Vianney seminarian choir enriched the celebration with their music.
A message of Thanksgiving
In his welcoming remarks before the Mass, the Apostolic Nuncio to Southern Africa, Archbishop Henryk Mieczysław Jagodziński, expressed gratitude for Pope Francis’ leadership and unwavering commitment to the Church.
“This is a moment of thanksgiving to Almighty God for the gift of his ministry, for his service to the Church and for his tireless efforts in sustaining his brothers and sisters in faith as the successor of Saint Peter and the visible centre of unity in the Church,” he said.
Archbishop Jagodziński also called for prayers for Pope Francis’ health, urging the faithful to reflect on the significance of the papacy and the Pope’s mission of mercy, humility and care for the marginalised. He acknowledged the presence of the diplomatic corps and civil authorities, emphasising that their participation symbolised unity and communion.
Archbishop Mpako’s message of love and mercy
The Mass readings, drawn from Isaiah 61:1-3, 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:13 and John 15:9-17, focused on the theme of love—an essential pillar of Pope Francis’ pontificate.
In his homily, Archbishop Dabula Mpako highlighted the fundamental mission of the Church: to be a sign of hope and to serve the world through love.
“The Prophet Isaiah speaks words of hope and comfort to the people of Israel who were returning from exile to a shattered city. In their despair, he reminded them of God’s enduring presence and mission: ‘The Spirit of the Lord has been given to me, for He has anointed me to bring good news to the poor, to proclaim liberty to captives, freedom to those in prison, and comfort to all who mourn.’ This is the mission the Church must carry out—to be a beacon of hope,” he said.
Archbishop Mpako further elaborated on Jesus’ commandment to love one another, emphasising that love is the foundation of right relationships and inclusivity. “Pope Francis has dedicated his papacy to making the Church more inclusive, compassionate, and responsive to contemporary challenges. He calls on us to be agents of hope and to embody God’s love in our interactions with one another.”
Referencing St Paul’s teaching that “faith, hope and love remain, but the greatest of these is love,” he praised Pope Francis’ commitment to holding the tension between truth and love. “His pastoral approach balances upholding Church teachings while reaching out with genuine love to those in need. His call for the Church to be a ‘field hospital’ that heals wounds and warms hearts is a testament to this mission.”
A celebration of unity
Following the Mass, guests gathered at the Apostolic Nunciature in Pretoria for a celebratory event. Cardinal Stephen Brislin and Auxiliary Bishop Masilo Selemela were also among the dignitaries present. The programme was directed by Brother Michele Baran.
Advocate Shireen Said, speaking on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the government of South Africa, extended heartfelt congratulations to Pope Francis and the people of Vatican City.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt well wishes to His Holiness Pope Francis for his speedy and full recovery. It is extremely heartwarming to know that he is doing very well at the moment,” she said.
Advocate Said also reflected on the historical ties between South Africa and the Holy See, noting that diplomatic relations were formally established in 1994 through an agreement between former President Nelson Mandela and Pope John Paul II. She acknowledged the Vatican’s role in condemning apartheid on international platforms, particularly within the United Nations.
“March is Human Rights Month in South Africa, and we celebrate this time with you. The Holy See was a key advocate against apartheid, taking a strong and authoritative stance against racial injustice. This year, as we mark the 60th anniversary of the International Covenant for the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, we are reminded of Pope Francis’ message on forgiveness and the importance of social justice and human rights,” she added.
A legacy of love and compassion
Southern Africa’s celebration of Pope Francis’ 12th anniversary as the head of the Catholic Church is a powerful reminder of his enduring message of love, mercy, unity and inclusivity. The presence of the shepherds of the conference at this special day shows their commitment to embodying the values Pope Francis has championed throughout his pontificate. While we celebrate his anniversary, we continue to pray for his health.
