The President of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) has paid tribute to Cardinal Wilfrid Fox Napier OFM, recognising his courage, spiritual leadership, and decades of service to the Church in Southern Africa and the universal Church.

In a message marking Cardinal Napier’s silver jubilee as a Cardinal, dated 6 November 2026, Cardinal Stephen Brislin expressed the Bishops’ Conference’s gratitude for his ministry, describing his contribution as a source of enrichment for the Church.

“The Church of Southern Africa, and the universal Church, have been enriched by your ministry and leadership over the past 25 years,” he wrote.

A legacy of courage and commitment to justice

Cardinal Brislin particularly recalled Cardinal Napier’s opposition to injustice during the apartheid years, saying his courage had given hope and encouragement to many. He also acknowledged his continued pursuit of truth and justice following South Africa’s transition to democracy, highlighting his impartiality and commitment to fairness for all people.

The SACBC President further recognised Cardinal Napier’s unwavering commitment to the Gospel and his deep love for the Church, particularly his dedication to the pastoral care of clergy and laity.

“Your unwavering dedication to the pastoral care of the clergy and laity alike has been a beacon of Christ’s light. We have been profoundly blessed by your vision and faithful stewardship,” Cardinal Brislin wrote.

From Kokstad to the universal Church

Cardinal Napier’s episcopal journey began in the Diocese of Kokstad, where he became its first indigenous bishop in 1981. He was appointed Archbishop of Durban in 1992, serving until his retirement in 2021. Created Cardinal by Pope John Paul II in February 2001, he also served two terms as President of the SACBC.

His ministry has been marked by significant contributions to the Church in South Africa, particularly during the country’s transition from apartheid to democracy, as well as his participation in the life and leadership of the universal Church.

Bishops united in thanksgiving

Expressing regret that prior commitments prevented him and other bishops from attending the celebration in person, Cardinal Brislin assured Cardinal Napier that they were united with him in thought and prayer.

He gave thanks for the Cardinal’s 25 years in the College of Cardinals, more than 45 years of episcopal ministry and 56 years of priesthood.

The message was read by Archbishop Zolile Peter Mpambani SCJ, First Vice-President of the SACBC, at the conclusion of the thanksgiving Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Kokstad on Sunday, 8 November.

The celebration brought together bishops, clergy, religious, members of the Napier family and the faithful to honour five milestones in the Cardinal’s life: his 85th birthday, 65 years since his first profession in the Franciscan Order, 56 years of priesthood, 45 years of episcopal ordination and 25 years as a Cardinal.

Concluding his message, Cardinal Brislin joined the bishops in giving thanks to God for the fruits of Cardinal Napier’s ministry, praying that the Holy Spirit would continue to grant him wisdom, strength and grace.

“Thank you for all you have done, and all you have been, for the Conference,” he concluded.