The Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) concluded its November Board Meeting in Pretoria, where bishops gathered to prepare for the upcoming January plenary and the landmark celebration of 75 years since the establishment of the Catholic hierarchy in Southern Africa.

In an interview with the SACBC Communication Office, Archbishop Zolile Peter Mpambani, First Vice President of the Conference, reflected on the meeting, upcoming priorities, and key issues shaping the Church’s journey.

Board Meeting: Preparing the Ground for Major Decisions

The member of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart (SCI) emphasised that the purpose of the Board Meeting is to prepare the agenda and discussion points for the plenary—the Church’s highest decision-making body.

“The board meeting serves its purpose to look at things to be discussed at the plenary sessions,” he explained, noting that bishops must be well informed on developments across all departments before entering formal deliberations.

SACBC at 75: Celebrating a Milestone

A major focus for the year ahead is the 75th anniversary of the SACBC in 2026.
The Archbishop confirmed that celebrations will take place during the January plenary session, with plans to produce historic materials—including a booklet and visual presentations—to honour the Church’s journey over the past seven decades.
“It’s good to recapture the history,” he said.

Key Issues for the January Plenary

The First Vice President of the SACBC highlighted several important matters that bishops will address next year:

• Laity Department: Review of applications from three sodalities seeking recognition at conference level—CWL, Charismatic Renewal, and Daughters of St Anne. A workshop for chaplains will also focus on strengthening synodal leadership.
• Catechetics and Formation: New programmes and the ongoing Ubumgoma theological study remain under review, with a fuller report expected in May 2026.
• Liturgy: Two significant liturgical texts will be considered—the celebration of St Teresa of Calcutta and liturgy for the care of creation.
• Future Vision: With declining vocations, bishops will further discuss the sustainability of operating a major seminary and explore developing St John Vianney into a broader academic institution.

Clarifying the Durban Metropolitan Decree

Responding to questions about the recent decree from the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Durban regarding priests and religious practising as Sangomas, Archbishop Mpambani clarified that the directive was not aimed at the laity.
“That decision was meant for priests and religious… it was a revision of what was already given long ago,” he said, noting ongoing misunderstandings. He confirmed that guidance for the laity will come from the Conference once the Ubumgoma research is complete.

A Call to the Faithful

As the SACBC approaches its 75th anniversary, Archbishop Mpambani appealed for prayers to support the bishops in their work.
“The plenary session is the highest decision-making body. We need your prayers for the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit in whatever decisions we take,” he said.
Recognising the diversity of dioceses—rural and urban, culturally varied—he stressed the need for wisdom and courage in navigating complex pastoral realities.

“Let’s keep on praying for more wisdom, courage, and strength from the Lord,” he concluded.