The General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches (SACC) Reverend Mzwandile Molo, addressed the plenary session of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) on Friday, January 24. Invited to share insights on the work and witness of the SACC, Reverend Molo highlighted the Church’s unique role in fostering justice, peace, and reconciliation within South Africa and beyond.

A Shared Commitment to God’s Values

Speaking at the plenary, Reverend Molo emphasized the privilege of collaboration between the SACC and SACBC in building a just and peaceful society and thanked the SACBC for “offering” Bishop Sithembele Anton Sipuka to serve as the President of the SACC.

“It’s a privilege indeed that during this time last year, the SACBC offered one of their leaders to serve as President of the SACC,” he noted. “We are united by a common commitment to building a world that reflects God’s values—justice, peace, mutuality, and a shared destiny under God’s love.”

This unity he said, demonstrates the power of interdenominational partnerships in addressing the pressing challenges facing society.

The Church’s Role in Social Cohesion

During his presentation, Reverend Molo addressed the pivotal question of the Church’s role in fostering social cohesion in a divided and unequal society.

“The Church has a special responsibility as God’s instrument for reconciliation and healing,” he explained. “For 30 years, this nation believed reconciliation would come naturally, without deliberate efforts to heal the wounds of the past. The Church must use its vast network to build communities where race, gender, tribe, or language no longer divide us.”

He described the Church as a catalyst for creating a social construct rooted in justice, where all people have a stake in the future of the nation. “Cohesion isn’t about preserving the interests of the powerful; it’s about ensuring that the hopes and claims of all South Africans, especially the marginalized, are not lost,” Reverend Molo stated, drawing inspiration from the life and teachings of Christ.

Messages to SACBC Church Leaders

As the SACBC undergoes a leadership transition, Reverend Molo extended heartfelt messages to both incoming and outgoing leaders of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Johannesburg.

To Cardinal Stephen Brislin, the new Archbishop of Johannesburg, Reverend Molo expressed admiration for his dedication to the Gospel and his concern for the poor.

“We wish him the best as he takes on this humble leadership role. His commitment to the dignity of God’s creation and mutual relationships between people and the planet inspires us. We look forward to his transformative leadership,” he said.

To the retiring Archbishop Buti Tlhagale OMI, Reverend Molo offered gratitude for decades of service.

“We have lived under his influence and guidance for generations. His tireless work for justice and unity is an enduring legacy,” he remarked. “Take time to rest and thank God for how He has used you, but remember, serving God is not tied to an office. You remain a vital part of God’s work in creating a better world.”