By Bridget Adams, Parish Secretary, St Stephen’s, Rocklands, Mitchells Plain – When most people turn 50, they celebrate with cake, candles, and a toast among family and friends. Father Nkululeko, parish priest at St Stephen’s Catholic Church in Rocklands, Mitchells Plain, had something a little more adventurous in mind: a 50-kilometre social run to match his 50 years, and he didn’t do it alone.
Fr Nkululeko set out at 06h30 from Gordon’s Bay on July 18, joined every step of the way by a group of dedicated parishioners who shared in the milestone. Also joining in for a quick 25km run before heading back to Johannesburg was the Rev Fr Zweli Mlotshwa, the provincial of the Oblates.
What began as a personal goal quickly became a celebration of community, faith, and endurance, both physical and spiritual.
The route started at Gordon’s Bay, continued to Somerset Strand along the beachfront, and wound onto Baden Powell Drive and finally onto the streets of Mitchells Plain, finishing at St Stephen’s Catholic Church in Rocklands. A few families generously gave their time to man water points and cheer the runners along the way. Fr Cibane, parish priest at Westridge the “self-appointed coach for the day”, ensured that everyone was comfortable and well looked after on the road. He said after the race: “The runners showed grit and determination”.
By the time Fr Nkululeko and the other runners crossed the finish line, exhaustion had given way to joy, a fitting reflection of a life spent in service. “I am beyond grateful to God for my half-century milestone, ” Fr Nkululeko shared after the race.
The parish had a Mass of Thanksgiving and a follow-up celebration dinner that doubled as a fundraiser in the days following the run.
Fr Nkukuleko’s Motivation: 50km@50 God’s Plan
“For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
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