Seminarians Prepare for a Journey of Discernment

by Kati Dijane · January 20, 2026

From left: Katlego Molapo, David Ranoko, Sandile Manyike, Bonga Zulu, Itumeleng Mlangeni, Gift Skhosana, Cardinal Stephen Brislin, Father Oupa Raymond Matseke, Phumlani Mkhwanazi, Liteboho Ntsoele, Sicelo Ntuli, Gontse Mpshe, Nhlakanipho Simelane, Tidimalo Monnakgotla and Kgothatso Laaka

By Kati Dijane – Thirteen young men discerning a calling to the priesthood took part in a vocational retreat held from Sunday, 11 January to Wednesday, 14 January 2026, at the Carmelite Retreat Centre in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg.

The retreat brought together seminarians at different stages of formation for prayer, reflection and fraternity, as they prepare for the next steps in their discernment journey.

According to Father Raymond Oupa Matseke, vicar for vocations in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg, the retreat is an important space for accompaniment and mutual encouragement.

“This retreat is about bringing all our seminarians together so they can spend time with one another,” Father Matseke said. “They pray together, attend Mass together, talk openly and are introduced to aspects of seminary life that some may not yet be familiar with. It helps them understand what the journey into priesthood really involves.”

He explained that peer support played a crucial role in discernment. “When they see others who have already taken steps on this path, it helps them realise that it is possible. Some have gone before them, and that gives them hope that this journey is walkable.”

A careful and prayerful discernment process

Father Matseke emphasised that entering the seminary is not a quick or casual decision. Instead, it involves a structured process that allows both the candidate and the Church to discern carefully.

Before admission, candidates must submit a formal application, a letter of recommendation from their parish priest, school results, police clearance and other required documentation. These are reviewed before the candidate meets the Archbishop for an initial interview.

“This first encounter is to get to know the candidate, where he comes from, and what is motivating his desire for priesthood,” Father Matseke explained. “After that, candidates undergo a psychological assessment, which is a requirement of the seminary.”

The assessment helps ensure that candidates are emotionally and psychologically prepared for priestly life. “We need to make sure that someone is not choosing priesthood because they are running away from something or unresolved trauma,” he said. “If there are serious psychological concerns, we may need to pause the process.”

Following this, the Archbishop meets the candidates again, now with the assessment results available. “We then discuss each candidate carefully before a final decision is made,” Father Matseke said, noting that the Archbishop’s background in psychology is a valuable asset in this process.

A time to listen and be heard

During the retreat, seminarians were also given space to share their fears, hopes and anxieties about priestly life. The Archbishop met each seminarian individually, allowing for personal guidance and encouragement.

“This retreat helps us understand the challenges they are facing,” Father Matseke said. “It’s also a time to reassure them that priesthood is not easy to understand, but it is a vocation that grows through prayer, honesty and accompaniment.”

The retreat took place at the beginning of the year, a time often associated with new beginnings. Several seminarians within the SACBC are preparing to begin orientation at the St Francis Xavier Orientation Seminary in Cape Town, while others will continue their academic formation at St John Vianney Seminary later in January.

Responding to the need for priestly vocations

Ordained in 2018 and recently appointed as vocations director, Father Matseke expressed concern about the shortage of diocesan priests in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg. Of the approximately 130 parishes, there are currently only 47 diocesan priests.

“I would like to see more young men considering this vocation,” he said. “During my tenure, I hope to accompany at least 35 seminarians on their discernment journey.”

Voices from the seminarians

One of the participants, Sandile Manyike from Soweto, who will be heading to Cape Town for orientation, said he is aware of the sacrifices that priesthood demands.

“This vocation requires letting go of many things—family life, career plans and personal ambitions,” he said. “But I am grateful for the support I have received from Father Matseke and Cardinal Stephen Brislin.”

He encouraged other young people who may be discerning a religious vocation not to be afraid. “Take the leap of faith,” he said. “Our true joy comes from Jesus Christ and nothing else.”

Meanwhile, Brother Bonga Zulu, also from Soweto and returning to St John Vianney Seminary for his final academic year, expressed gratitude for the support of the Archdiocese. He hopes more young people will respond to God’s call so that the local Church may continue to grow and serve its communities.

An open invitation to discern

Young men and women who are discerning a vocation to the religious order are encouraged to seek accompaniment and guidance. A discernment workshop is held on the first Sunday of every month at 9am at Christ the King Cathedral.

For more information, contact Father Matseke on 011 402 6400 or email