Durban Cluster Youth gather for Mini Jubilee at Ngome Shrine

by Kati Dijane · July 8, 2025

By Kati Dijane – Hundreds of young people from the Durban Cluster braved the winter chill and journeyed to the sacred Ngome Marian Shrine in the Diocese of Eshowe for a spiritually uplifting all-night Mini Jubilee revival. Held from 4 to 5 July 2025, the event drew the youth from the Dioceses of Eshowe, Dundee, Mariannhill, Umzimkhulu, Kokstad, Durban, the Vicariate of Ingwavuma, and even from as far as the Diocese of Manzini in Eswatini.

The pilgrimage, themed “Hope Does Not Disappoint” (Romans 5:5), aimed to bring the spirit of the international Jubilee of Youth, set to take place in Rome from 28 July to 3 August, to those unable to attend in person. The night was rich with prayer, worship, healing and moments of deep reflection.

A night of revival and healing

The night began with a penitential service led by Fr Lindokuhle Miya, inviting the youth to open their hearts and return to God. This was followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Stanislaw Dziuba OSPPE of Umzimkulu Diocese, with fifteen priests concelebrating, a powerful symbol of unity and pastoral care for the young Church.

As expected with youth, the Mass was anything but ordinary, it was vibrant and spirit-filled.

In his homily, Fr Ngcongo drew from Isaiah 43:1–5, reminding the youth that they are known and loved by name by God, who formed them in their mothers’ wombs. “There are people who think they can control your progress, success or livelihood,” he said, “but you are God’s masterpiece. Don’t be anxious—God is present and protective of you.”

He also addressed the real struggles many young people face, including unemployment, urging them not to lose hope. Drawing from John 15:18–25, he said: “If the world hates you, remember it hated Christ first. You are a chosen race, a chosen nation and a chosen diocese. Shine where you are planted. Don’t let anyone dim your light or suppress your gifts.”

Fr Ngcongo concluded by praying that the pilgrimage would yield answered prayers, healing, and spiritual blessings.

Unity in prayer and celebration

Fr Mlondolozi Buthelezi OSM, the youth chaplain for both the Durban cluster and the Association of Catholic Tertiary Students (ACTS), officially welcomed pilgrims, describing the night as a “blessing and a healing space” for young people.

After the Mass, the programme continued with the Rosary procession to the streams, where a healing service, led by Father Anele Msane, took place. The youth also participated in the Stations of the Cross, a Thanksgiving reflection, and Adoration and Benediction, led by Fr Thuthuka Mtshali. The revival ended with a closing Mass, during which the Durban Youth Cluster Committee was blessed.

SACBC Youth leadership in support

The presence of leaders from the SACBC Youth & Young Adults Ministry underscored the significance of the event. Lesego Zikhali, president of the ministry, attended alongside Troy Nkuna, media and publicity officer, and Qeduvalo Mtungwa, outreach officer. Nomvuyo Nxumalo, the secretary-general, was also present.

Zikhali expressed heartfelt gratitude to the youth for answering the call to participate in diocesan events. “It’s encouraging to see young people show up, pray together and find strength in their faith,” he said.