Thabile Mbhele Embraces New Role in St Anne’s Sodality

by Daluxolo Moloantoa · August 11, 2025

St Anne’s Sodality welcomes new members at St John’s Parish in Northriding, JHB

By Daluxolo Moloantoa – On Women’s Day, the parish of St John’s in Northriding, Johannesburg, was filled with song, prayer, and celebration as the St Anne Sodality warmly welcomed its newest members, including Radio Veritas news presenter and Newzroom Africa Zulu news anchor Thabile Mbhele.

The day’s festivities began with Mass, during which Mrs Mbhele, alongside women from across Johannesburg, made her formal commitment to the sodality, a respected Catholic women’s organisation dedicated to prayer, service, and following the example of St Anne, the mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Among those present to celebrate the occasion was Bishop Thulani Mbuyisa CMM, Bishop of the Kokstad Diocese, who joined the congregation in honouring this special milestone.

Following the Mass, a programme of speeches and tributes unfolded.

Family members of the inductees—parents, siblings, and spouses—shared heartfelt messages of encouragement and pride. For Mrs Mbhele, the occasion was made especially meaningful by the presence of a large group of her relatives, who had travelled from KwaZulu-Natal to witness and share in her joyful moment. Representing the family on the programme was a young lady who conveyed their collective happiness and support.

Speaking to The Southern Cross, Mrs Mbhele reflected, “To have my family travel all the way from KwaZulu-Natal to celebrate this day with me was a blessing beyond words. It reminded me that faith is not lived alone—it is carried, nurtured, and celebrated together.

This was not only my special moment—it was a celebration for all women in the Catholic Church, affirming our place, our calling, and our shared mission of service and prayer.”

The significance of Women’s Day in South Africa echoes deeply within the Catholic community. It commemorates the historic 1956 Women’s March to the Union Buildings in Pretoria—a powerful act of peaceful protest against apartheid pass laws. Among the leaders was Sophie de Bruyn, a lifelong Catholic and the longest surviving woman of that iconic march, whose faith and courage continue to inspire generations of Catholic women.

The St Anne sodality was founded in Canada in the 19th century and introduced to Southern Africa in 1934 through the ministry of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate priests via Lesotho. The organisation is open exclusively to married Catholic women who commit to living out their faith through charitable works, devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and her mother St Anne, and strengthening the bonds of family life.

Back in June 2022, The Southern Cross featured an inspiring article on Mrs Mbhele, honouring her life, values, and contributions. Last month, the spotlight turned to her husband, Sibusiso Mbhele. His story centred on a groundbreaking safety app he developed — a tool designed to protect vulnerable people in South Africa, no matter their gender, age, or race.

Members of the St Anne sodality are recognised by their distinctive attire: a purple cape worn over a black dress during liturgical and official functions. This uniform symbolises their unity, dignity, and steadfast dedication to the Church’s mission. The sodality remains a vital presence within parishes and dioceses, leading prayer gatherings, supporting charitable initiatives, and fostering spiritual growth among Catholic families.

For Mrs Mbhele and her fellow inductees, this Women’s Day was far more than a ceremony—it was a joyful and public ‘yes’ to a lifetime of devotion, witness, and service within the Catholic Church. Their commitment is a living testament to the vital role that Catholic women play in sustaining and enriching the faith community in South Africa. On this special day dedicated to women, their faith-filled witness reminds us all of the strength, grace, and unwavering spirit that women bring to the life of the Church and the world.