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Showing posts from March, 2024

Palm Sunday and the Synodal Church as exemplary servant leaders.

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By Christine Masivo Palm Sunday it serves as a moving reminder of the humility and servant leadership embodied by Jesus Christ as he entered Jerusalem. This occasion offers a profound opportunity to reflect on the principles of servant leadership, particularly within the context of the synodal church, where everyone play a vital role. In the synodal church, everyone is called to exemplify servant leadership through their dedication to serving others, their communities, and the greater good.  Like Jesus washing the feet of his disciples, we are to humbly serve those in need, embodying compassion, empathy, and selflessness. Palm Sunday symbolizes the beginning of Holy Week, a time of reflection, sacrifice, and service.  Just as Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, have nothing to do with majesty and power, all Christians in the synodal church prioritize simplicity and humility in their leadership. They lead not with authority or domination, but with a spirit of service an...

Unveiling the Inspiring Legacy of Prior Francis Pfanner. Emaus Heritage Centre in Umzimkulu Diocese, South Africa.

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 By Sr. Caroline Mjomba CPS Abbot Francis Pfanner statue If no one goes, I will go Prior Francis Pfanner made the terse announcement, “if no one goes, I will go” on 12 September 1879 during the General Chapter of the Trappists in Sept Fons, France.   It was at the request of Bishop Ricards of Grahamstown, Eastern Cape, who needed missionaries for Dunbrody in his Vicariate. Prior Francis had no idea that his brave statement would later be instrumental in founding the Mariannhill Monastery in 1882 and the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood in 1885. He became the first Abbot of Mariannhill and its many mission stations that he established within a short span of time. One of the stations that Abbot Francis founded was a mission he named Lourdes in East Griqualand in 1888. He and his famous companion and architect, Bro. Nivard Streicher set out to explore and buy a 50,000 acre land that belonged to a certain Donald Strachan. The farm was a block ...

Rediscovering Love through Spiritual practices in Lent

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By Sr. Christine Masivo Cps                                                                                      Lent a moment for reflection In this lent season, individuals of various faiths are turning inward to reflect on the profound significance of life, embracing opportunities to deepen their connection with the divine. Whether through acts of kindness, forgiveness, or self-reflection, individuals strive to mend their relationship with the divine and with one another. Understanding Lent as a Journey of Love At the core of Lent lies a profound journey of love. It's not merely a period of abstinence or sacrifice but a profound opportunity to delve into the depths of divine love. Love for self, others and God. We cannot say that we love God when we do not love one...