Bishops Gather in Pretoria to Advance Church Priorities
During their August 4–8 plenary session at Khanya House in Pretoria, the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) tackled vital pastoral and social issues. Bishops from South Africa, Botswana, and Eswatini came together to discuss how to renew Catholic higher education, strengthen diocesan synodal structures, promote lay formation, and secure Church financial sustainability.
They also paid tribute to the late Bishop Fritz Lobinger for his dedication to community-led church life and empowered lay leadership.
Annual Feast of Creation and New Church Appointments Announced
The bishops approved the annual celebration of the Feast of Creation in Christ, aligning with the African Church’s mission of ecological conversion and care for creation.
They welcomed two major appointments: Bishop Sithembele Sipuka’s selection for the National Dialogue Eminent Persons Group and the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, and Bishop Thulani Victor Mbuyisa CMM’s appointment to the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
Honoring Bishop Dlamini: A Legacy Remembered
A highlight of the week was the heartfelt memorial lecture and unveiling of a portrait honoring Bishop Pius Bonaventura Dlamini FFJ, who made history as South Africa’s first Black Catholic bishop. The event celebrated his pioneering role and lasting impact on the Church and community.
Additionally, the bishops said farewell to Monsignor Dario Paviša, acknowledging his dedicated diplomatic and pastoral service.
Looking Ahead: Plans for IMBISA Jubilee and Next SACBC Meeting
The Southern African Church’s schedule includes the IMBISA Golden Jubilee, set to occur from September 24–29 in Eswatini’s Diocese of Manzini.
Meanwhile, the SACBC slated its next plenary meeting for January 2026 to build on this session’s progress.
