Bishop receives hero's welcome in Bekkersdal
Reflecting on his roots in Bekkersdal, the Bishop of Johannesburg shared a heartfelt message on faith, unity and community.
Bekkersdal’s main street came alive recently as presiding priest reverend Seipati Kgomane and the congregation of St Mary’s Church welcomed the Bishop of Johannesburg, Dr Oupaki Sepadi Moruthane.
The occasion resembled a grand ceremonial welcome as the bishop was greeted near the busy taxi rank with singing, dancing and drumbeats from the various church guilds. The St Mary’s Church choir, dressed in colourful yellow gowns reminiscent of renowned African-American choirs, joined drum majorettes and motorcyclists in escorting the bishop on a procession to the church.
“This is the day that the Lord has made. Bishop, you are more than welcome here at St Mary’s. This is your home,” reverend Kgomane said.
Church Warden Latlhe Sethepo added that the Bishop is more than at home in Bekkersdal.
“We achieved a great deal under his leadership while he served in our parish. Had we received more notice, we could have organised one of the biggest welcome celebrations ever for our son.”
Dr Moruthane expressed his gratitude for the warm reception in the first parish where he served as a full-time priest.
“After 20 years since I left here, it pleases me to see those familiar faces I have not seen in such a long time,” he said.
He added that he still carries fond memories of the town and the church and expressed concern about the recent tavern murders that occurred in Bekkersdal during the past festive season.
“I was relieved that none of our parish members was involved in the incident. I am who I am because of Bekkersdal and Simunye. It is only through unity that we can achieve more as a parish. Let us not allow divisions to separate us,” he said.
The Bishop also referred to the current impasse between the USA and Iran, saying that greater dialogue is needed to resolve conflicts that affect global markets and economies.
“It is important that we look after one another, especially the poor and not rely solely on government,” he said.
He further emphasised that the church should remain at the forefront of the fight against corruption and the abuse of vulnerable people.
“Corruption has existed since the time of Jesus. As Christians, we must stand up for the truth, be proactive in combating gender-based violence, feed the poor and not simply wait for government to do everything for us,” he continued.
He concluded by calling on parishioners and members of the community to register to vote so they can hold those in positions of power accountable.
