4 chaplains remembered at Heidelberg’s Suikerbos memorial service
Hosted by Chaplaincy SA, the event marked the start of an annual Heidelberg tradition, combining remembrance with the ordination of new ministry members.
A memorial service was held at Suikerbos Retirement Village on October 25 to honour the bravery and selflessness of four chaplains who sacrificed their lives during World War II.
The event, hosted under the auspices of Chaplaincy SA, marked a meaningful addition to Heidelberg’s history that will now become an annual tradition.
Commander Johan Lochem led the service. He also officiated the ordination of two new ministry members, Heidi van Dyk as Chaplain and Marius Dippenaar as Reverend.
During the service, Lochem acknowledged their commitment to community service, stating, “Your willingness to serve your community is commendable. Serving and counselling others is a calling, and embracing that calling is a significant step.”
Professor Aubrey Burger then spoke about the four chaplains who died in World War II.
The four chaplains, from different faiths, were on board the SS Dorchester. They were Lieutenant Washington (Roman Catholic Church), Lieutenant Poling (American Reformed Church), Rabbi Gooding (Jewish faith), and Lieutenant Fox (Methodist Church).
“The ship came under attack from an enemy submarine on February 3, 1943. As it began to sink, the chaplains gave up their lifejackets to save civilians and personnel on board. It is reported that through courage, unity, and faith, the chaplains put other lives ahead of their own. They remained on the ship and prayed until the end,” said Burger.
Additionally, discussions regarding a memorial stone and remembrance wall at the Rooihaan Café to honour the fallen members of the community, including Etienne du Preez and Major Tolla Pieterse, are ongoing.
Chaplaincy SA is also planning to organise monthly meetings focused on outreach initiatives in Heidelberg, addressing issues such as gender-based violence, hospice support, and community assistance.
Following the service, attendees gathered at the Rooihaan Café for breakfast.
For those interested in joining Chaplaincy SA, contact Lochem on 071 627 8748 or via email at chaplaincysa.hbg@gmail.com, or Van Dyk on 081 642 8076.
