In his reflection during the solemn vespers on the eve of the Episcopal consecration of the Right Reverend Vusumuzi Francis Mazibuko as Vicar Apostolic of the Vicariate of Ingwavuma, the Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Apostolic Nunciature in South Africa underscored “unity” between the Apostolic Vicariate and the Universal Church.

Monsignor Dario Paviša explained that “the link between an Apostolic Vicariate and the Universal Church is characterized by unity, communion, and collaboration, and it reflects the hierarchical structure of the Catholic Church,” and that the “special bond between an Apostolic Vicar and the Holy Father is rooted in their shared commitment to the mission of the Church and their participation in the apostolic ministry.”

In the Friday, June 2 reflection at Riverview Church in Mtubatuba, KwaZulu Natal, Mons. Paviša said “The Holy Father, as the successor of Saint Peter, holds the highest authority in the Church,” that “through his appointment of an Apostolic Vicar, he entrusts a specific region or area of the Church’s mission to the care and leadership of that individual.”

“The Apostolic Vicar, in turn, serves as a representative of the Holy Father and operates within the authority and guidance of the Pope,” he added.

The Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Apostolic Nunciature in South Africa went on to highlight “communion” as an “essential aspect” of the bond between the Apostolic Vicar and the Holy Father as the “Apostolic Vicar remains in communion with the Holy Father and the Universal Church, sharing in the faith, sacraments, and governance of the Church.”

“This unity ensures that the ministry of the Vicar is in harmony with the overall mission of the Church and reflects the universal teachings and practices of Catholicism. Furthermore, collaboration is integral to the relationship between the Apostolic Vicar and the Holy Father,” said Mons Paviša.

He continued, “The Vicar works closely with the Holy See, receiving guidance, support, and advice as needed. This collaboration allows for effective coordination of efforts, the exchange of information, and the sharing of resources to fulfil the mission entrusted to the Vicar.”

As the new Vicar Apostolic, the Right Reverend Mazibuko will act “as an extension of the Pope’s ministry, faithfully carrying out his teachings, directives, and pastoral initiatives within the specific context of the vicariate,” said Mons Paviša, adding, “The Vicar is called to exercise his authority in accordance with the teachings of the Church and the guidance of the Holy Father.”

Mons. Paviša further said that “ultimately, the bond between the Apostolic Vicar and the Holy Father is founded on mutual trust, respect, and obedience to the authority of the Pope. It is a relationship that emphasizes unity, communion, and collaboration, as they work together to fulfil the mission of the Church and bring the love and message of Christ to the world.”

In the Friday, June 2 reflection, Mons Paviša also highlighted the meaning of the name of the Bishop-elect, Vusumuzi Francis Mazibuko OMI.

He said, “As Bishop Thulani of Kokstad explained to me, the first part of the name Vusumuzi is Vusa, meaning to raise or wake up, and the second part, Umuzi, means house or dwelling. Vusumuzi is thus a name that in Zulu culture is given to a boy with the hope that this boy, once he grows up, will be able to raise, build or rebuild his father’s house. How prophetic this name is in today’s context!”

Mons. Paviša noted that once consecrated Bishop, Mons. Mazibuko will be “entrusted with the mission to continually raise, build and rebuild the Church he has been assigned, sanctifying all the faithful, in communion with the Universal Church – the Dwelling Place of God, of which each and every one of us is a member.”

The Episcopal consecration of the Right Reverend Mazibuko is scheduled to take place at the Riverview Church, Mtubatuba on Saturday, June 3.