St Padre Pio Centre Hosts “Consoling Sacred Heart” Retreat
By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – The St Padre Pio Centre in the Archdiocese of Pretoria was the venue for the annual “Consoling Sacred Heart” retreat, held from June 27 to June 29. Organised by Ms Mammuso Elizabeth Makoa and Ms Refiloe Ntsaoana, the retreat honoured the solemnity of the Sacred Heart. Although anticipated speakers Bishop Emeritus Augustine Bane OMI and Archbishop Emeritus Jabulani Nxumalo OMI were unable to attend, the event proceeded with a rich programme.
The retreat began with attendee registration and a procession. The opening Mass was presided over by Fr Dr Michael Mapulanga from the Archdiocese of Bloemfontein, followed by dinner, adoration, Benediction, praises, and consecration to the Most Sacred Heart.
Saturday, June 28th, was dedicated to teachings and reflections. Father Ewald Nangay, OFMCap, clarified the retreat’s purpose: to console the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ, deepen the understanding of the relationship between the Eucharist and the Sacred Heart, and explore divine mercy. His presentation included references to Pope Leo XIII’s teachings on consecration to the Sacred Heart (Annum Sacrum), and an International Exhibition featuring testimonies of visions and apparitions of angels and demons in the lives of the saints, as designed and curated by Blessed Carlo Acutis.
Auxiliary Bishop Masilo John Selemela of the Archdiocese of Pretoria delivered a keynote address on “The Eucharistic Celebration after Vatican II,” examining the Council through a Eucharistic lens. Fr Dr Michael Mapulanga reflected on “St John the Beloved and the Sacred Heart of Jesus.” His Grace Archbishop Emeritus William Matthew Slattery OFM provided a profound teaching on “Dilexit Nos,” focusing on the human and divine love of the Heart of Jesus Christ. Discussions also covered Pope Pius XII’s teachings on devotion to the Sacred Heart (Haurietis Aquas) and Pope Pius XI’s emphasis on reparation to the Sacred Heart (Miserentissimus Redemptor). These encyclical topics were thoroughly examined by both Fr Michael Mapulanga and Fr Ewald Nangay, OFMCap.
Participants also received the Sacrament of Confession, followed by a period of silence and adoration. On the final day of the retreat, June 29, 2025, Holy Mass was concelebrated by Fr Michael Mapulanga and Fr Ewald Nangay, OFMCap. After breakfast, panel discussions and a question-and-answer session took place. The International Exhibition featuring Testimonies of Visions & Apparitions of Angels & Demons in the Lives of the Saints, curated by Blessed Carlo Acutis, was also presented.
The retreat concluded with the recitation of the Divine Mercy prayer.
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