Daveyton parishioners celebrate Consolata Day at St Lambert’s Parish

by Kati Dijane · July 10, 2025

Consolata Day celebration at St Lambert’s Parish in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg

By Kati Dijane – The faithful of Daveyton community in Far East Rand gathered at St Lambert’s Parish in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg to celebrate Consolata Day on July 6.

The Feast of Our Lady of Consolation is officially marked on June 20 each year by Consolata Missionaries and their communities around the world. It is celebrated in memory of the miraculous recovery of sight of a blind man, Jean Revais, who found the long-lost icon of Our Lady of Consolation on that day in 1104.

Though slightly delayed, the local commemoration was no less vibrant and memorable.

The day was marked by a joint Mass led by Father Michael Miriti IMC and Father Charles Orero IMC, joined by Reverend Deacon Morare. The church was filled with colour, as parishioners arrived dressed in traditional wear, proudly celebrating both faith and heritage.

Mary, Our Lady of Consolation

In his stirring homily, Father Charles Orero drew from John 2:1-11, the Gospel of the Wedding at Cana, highlighting not just the miracle of Jesus turning water into wine, but the powerful, consoling role played by Mary, known to the Consolata family as Our Lady of Consolation.

“For us, Consolata Missionaries, Mary is ours in a special way under the title Consolata,” Father Charles proclaimed. “She is not just a figure in Scripture; she is our mother who consoles us. In every corner of the world where Consolata Missionaries are present, Mary is working with us to console the world.”

He challenged those in attendance to reflect on what role Mary plays in their own lives. “Why do you want Mary to console you?” he asked. “She is here today, with an abundance of consolation, ready to bring healing to our broken hearts, to renew our hope and to strengthen our journey of faith.”

A Message to women and families

Father Charles also used the example of Mary to challenge women, mothers and young girls in the church: “Mary was a young, ordinary girl, maybe 14 or 15 years old, when God called her. Yet through her faith, she became the most blessed among women. What kind of woman are you becoming with all the opportunities God has given you?”

He extended this reflection to men and families, particularly married couples. “Marriage is one of the most sacred human relationships. Don’t take it for granted,” he urged. “The miracle at Cana teaches us that when joy runs dry—symbolised by the wine running out—Mary intervenes. She notices the need, and she brings it to Jesus.”

Restoring joy through consolation

Father Charles reminded the congregation that Jesus’ first miracle was not about spectacle, but about restoring joy, which was symbolised by wine, at a celebration of love and union. “Where there is Mary, there can be no sadness. Where there is Jesus, there is always hope. We are called to trust in their presence in our own moments of emptiness.”

In closing, he offered a heartfelt prayer:
“Mother Mary, please turn to Jesus on our behalf. Look at each of us with our brokenness, our desires and our needs. Intercede for us so that Jesus, through you, may restore to us the real joy.”

Welcoming new members into the Church

Adding to the significance of the celebration was the infant baptism of several babies during the Mass. Families presented their little ones to the Church, while Father Miriti prayed over and baptised them by the baptismal font.

Faith and culture

After the Mass, the celebration continued outside with a communal meal featuring traditional food: samp, trotters, dombolo (steamed bread) and chicken feet. The festive meal reflected the unity and diversity of the community.

“This feast is very special to all Consolata Missionaries,” said Father Michael Miriti, “because our mandate is to spread the Good News and bring consolation to the countries we serve in. Wherever we are sent, we are called to be agents of comfort, joy, and healing.”