Mthatha Diocese Celebrates Academic Excellence Among Clergy and Religious

By Fr Wenceslaus Wangila CMM – The Catholic Diocese of Mthatha recently held its Academic Mass 2025, honouring priests and religious scholars who have achieved higher academic degrees. Bishop Sithembele Anton Sipuka champions education as a divine gift, essential for intellectual, mental, and spiritual growth, recognising its vital role in deepening faith and serving the community.

The Role of Education in Spiritual Growth

The pursuit of knowledge is deeply rooted in scripture. Proverbs 1:7 states, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This verse highlights the significance of wisdom as a divine attribute, guiding individuals toward righteousness and service. Similarly, Hosea 4:6 reminds us, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” The Church has always emphasised education as a means of strengthening faith and fostering leadership.

In one of Bishop Sithembele Sipuka reflections on  Freedom Day, observed annually on April 27 since 1994, Bishop Sipuka called for an effective education system as well as for the “creation of industries or sectors in rural areas”, to create “employment and begin to do something to affirm the dignity” of South Africans “by enabling them to earn their income so that they become truly free from the patronage of politicians.”

Bishop Sipuka also called for the “decentralisation of economic activity and inclusion of all in wealth creation”, which must be “concurrently done with the beefing up of education.”

Recognising priests who have attained advanced degrees—Doctorates, Masters, and Honours—can be seen as a reflection of Bishop Sipuka’s emphasis on education as a tool for societal development. His call for an effective education system aligns with the idea that priests and religious brothers and sisters who pursue higher learning contribute not only to their own intellectual and spiritual growth but also to the broader community.

These intellectuals with advanced degrees often engage in theological research, education, and leadership roles that shape the Church’s teachings and outreach. Their academic achievements reflect a commitment to lifelong learning, which Bishop Sipuka advocates, ensuring that education is not just about formal schooling but about continuous intellectual and moral development.

Additionally, the recognition of these priests highlights the importance of tailoring education to individual abilities, as Bishop Sipuka suggests. Some priests may excel in pastoral care, while others thrive in academia, and honouring their achievements reinforces the idea that education should empower individuals in their unique callings.

Recognition of Priests and Religious Scholars

Bishop Sipuka has honoured priests and religious scholars who have excelled in their academic pursuits. Their commitment to education reflects the teachings of the Church, which encourages intellectual growth alongside spiritual development. The Second Vatican Council’s Gravissimum Educationis affirms that education is essential in forming individuals who can contribute meaningfully to society and the Church.

It’s laudable to note that in our Diocese, the following scholars have undertaken to achieve these mantles in different fields of expertise:

Here’s a brief recognition of their accomplishments:

1. Dr. Fr. Gideon Sibanda CMM – Earned a Doctorate in Policy and Development Studies, focusing on the empowerment of communities.
2. Dr. Fr. Ncedo Siwundla – Achieved a Doctorate in Practical Theology, contributing to pastoral care and theological discourse.
3.  Fr. Motlatsi Phomane – Completed a Licentiate (Master’s) in Canon Law, strengthening the Church’s legal framework and governance.
4.  Fr. Potlako Sello – Obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science, enhancing the Church’s ability to engage with communities effectively.
5. Sr. Margaret Mary Makuwerere SU – Earned a Bachelor of Commerce in Information and Technology Management, integrating modern technology into religious and administrative functions.
6. Fr. Mandia Mchunu CMM – Accomplished a Bachelor of Commerce in Law and an Honours in Practical Theology, bridging legal expertise with theological insights.
7. Fr. Joachim Pinji CMM – Completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management, equipping him with skills to oversee and implement impactful initiatives.
8.  Deacon. Raphael Chambula CMM – Post Graduate Diploma in Theology to deeply understand our Catholic Teaching.

Education as a Source of Inspiration

The dedication of these scholars serves as a beacon of hope for the community. Their achievements inspire young minds to seek knowledge, understanding that education is not merely an intellectual endeavour but a spiritual journey. As St. Augustine once said, “Faith seeks understanding.” The integration of faith and reason strengthens the Church’s mission to develop well-rounded individuals who can lead with wisdom and compassion. The Book of Proverbs reminds us that wisdom comes from the Lord. True excellence is not measured by grades alone but by the ability to discern right from wrong, to apply knowledge with humility, and to use our talents for the greater good.

Saint Thomas Aquinas, one of the greatest theologians and scholars of the Church, taught that faith and reason work together. He pursued knowledge not for personal gain but to deepen his understanding of God’s truth. Like him, we are called to seek wisdom with humility, knowing that all knowledge ultimately leads us closer to Christ.

These individuals have demonstrated remarkable dedication to academic excellence, contributing to both theological and practical fields of study. Their achievements reflect a commitment to education as a source of inspiration and societal development.

Their academic journeys serve as an inspiration, reinforcing Bishop Sithembele Sipuka’s vision of education as a transformative force.