The Church must continue to invest in the formation of the laity and support families as the backbone of both society and ecclesial life, according to the Chairperson of the Department for the Laity of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference.

Speaking during a departmental meeting held in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg, Bishop Vincent Mduduzi Zungu OFM reflected on the importance of ongoing formation for sodalities, youth, and families, highlighting the shared responsibility of all the baptized in the Church’s mission of evangelization.

Formation at the Heart of the Church’s Mission

The meeting brought together representatives of various lay movements, sodalities, and seminaries, including participants from the St John Vianney Seminary and the St Joseph’s Theological Institute (RF) NPC.

According to Bishop Zungu, the discussions focused on evaluating pastoral initiatives and listening to the experiences of lay members across dioceses.

“At the heart of this meeting was an ongoing need for formation for all members of the Church,” he said. “We still have a long way to go in helping people understand the importance of their baptism, which calls them to be disciples and missionaries.”

He emphasized that the laity are called to become “salt of the earth and light of the world,” echoing the Church’s teaching on the vocation of all believers to witness to the Gospel in daily life.

Strengthening Marriage and Family Life

A key theme that emerged from the gathering was the promotion and strengthening of marriage and family life, particularly in response to concerns that commitment to marriage is becoming less attractive to younger generations.

Bishop Zungu noted that the Church’s Family Life Desk has adopted pastoral strategies that celebrate long-standing marriages and encourage couples to share their experiences with younger families.

“Couples who have been married for many years are invited to share the wonders of being called to the sacrament of marriage,” he explained. “They help others to see that marriage is not a burden but a vocation through which families become co-creators with God.”

He stressed that healthy marriages are essential not only for the vitality of the Church but also for the well-being of society as a whole.

Women at the Forefront of Evangelization

During the same period, the Interdiocesan Council of the St Anne’s Sodality also met under the auspices of the department. Bishop Zungu expressed gratitude for the contribution of women in sustaining the faith life of communities.

“Women, especially those organized in sodalities such as St Anne’s, are at the forefront of evangelization,” he said. “They keep prayer life alive in our communities and assist greatly in the formation of younger generations.”

He highlighted the role of women in catechesis, pastoral care, and support for families experiencing grief or marital difficulties, describing their service as a vital gift to the Church.

A Message for Vocations Sunday

With the Fourth Sunday of Easter traditionally observed as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, Bishop Zungu encouraged young people to remain open to God’s call in their lives.

Drawing inspiration from the teaching of Pope Francis, he reminded the faithful that vocation is not reserved for the perfect.

“There is no perfect bishop, no perfect priest, no perfect parents, and no perfect children,” he said. “All of us are called to embrace our vocation and to grow through ongoing formation.”

He urged young people to cultivate prayer, silence, and discernment, allowing their personal dreams to meet God’s plan for their lives.

A Moment of Gratitude and National Celebration 🇿🇦

As South Africa marks Freedom Day on 27 April, Bishop Zungu reflected on the importance of gratitude and hope. He also offered words of appreciation for the leadership of Archbishop Sithembele Sipuka, whose birthday coincides with the national celebration.

Looking ahead to his own 60^th birthday on 28 April, Bishop Zungu expressed thanks for the support of the Church and the formation he received within the Franciscan tradition.

“Turning sixty is a wonderful occasion to give thanks to God,” he said. “I look forward to many more years of ministry, God willing.”