On the Solemnity of St Joseph, Husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Local Ordinary of Kokstad Diocese has called for a renewed reflection on fatherhood, masculinity, and responsibility in the face of growing social challenges, particularly gender-based violence, human trafficking, and a surge in kidnappings across South Africa.

In his Thursday, 19 March 2026, reflection on the figure of Saint Joseph, Bishop Thulani Victor Mbuyisa CMM described St Joseph as a man of quiet strength—hardworking, obedient, humble, and deeply faithful. Though silent in the Gospels, Bishop Mbuyisa described St Joseph’s actions as speaking powerfully: “he protected Mary’s dignity,” safeguarded his family, and responded courageously to God’s will, even when it meant fleeing into “exile in Egypt” to preserve the life of the Child Jesus.

The newly appointed Apostolic Administrator of Mthatha Diocese challenged long-held cultural patterns that have often emphasized such virtues “primarily for women,” urging instead that boys and men be intentionally formed in the same values. In a society scarred by violence against women and children, he stressed that St Joseph offers a compelling “model of masculinity” rooted not in dominance, but in care, protection, and presence.

His appeal comes against the backdrop of an escalating kidnapping crisis in the country. According to news reports, recent data from the South African Police Service indicates that nearly 4,800 kidnapping cases were recorded between October and December last year—an average of about 53 incidents per day.

Bishop Mbuyisa, who is responsible for the Justice and Peace Commission of the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference (SACBC), noted that such realities demand not only vigilance but also a moral and spiritual response, beginning with the formation of men and boys in values that uphold the dignity and safety of others.

He further proposed that the Solemnity of St Joseph be embraced more intentionally as a day to celebrate fatherhood. Noting that in some countries the feast coincides with Father’s Day, he suggested that families, parishes, and dioceses could adopt this tradition, honouring fathers who, like St Joseph, are faithful, present, and committed to the well-being of their families.

“Perhaps we should do the same in this country: that all Catholic families and all our parishes and Dioceses celebrate Father’s Day on St Joseph’s Day: celebrating the man who was docile to the will of God in his life; the man who sought to protect the good name and honour of his wife, Mary,” said Bishop Mbuyisa.

Inviting deeper discernment, Bishop Mbuyisa encouraged the faithful to engage in “Conversation in the Spirit,” a method highlighted during the Synod on Synodality. He posed critical questions to communities: “What is the Holy Spirit asking of us in confronting gender-based violence and femicide? How can the Church accompany boys and young men, especially those raised in difficult circumstances? And what would St Joseph do when faced with similar trials?”

In his concluding remarks, Bishop Mbuyisa called for prayers for “victims of gender-based violence, abduction, and human trafficking.” In a special way, he drew attention to the case of Lathitha Mtolo, a seven-year-old girl who went missing from her home in Marikana, Kokstad, on 26 February 2026.

In response, the community of St Mary’s Catholic School, Kokstad, has stood in solidarity with the “Justice for Lathitha” campaign. On Friday, 6 March, learners and staff wore black and pinned white ribbons as a sign of unity, faith, and hope. The white ribbon, described as a “Flame of Hope,” symbolises their ongoing prayers for Lathitha’s safe return, as well as for truth and justice to prevail.

Entrusting the situation to the intercession of St Joseph, Bishop Mbuyisa invited all the faithful to continue praying for Lathitha’s “safe return.”