A Catholic priest, Nhlakanipho Bayandabathembu Mvelase left Our Lady of Fatima Shrine in Galeshewe with a heavy heart. A community that he lived in for six years.
The servant of God from Ixhopo relieved his emotions when he relocated from the Diocese of Marrian Hill in Kwa-Zulu Natal to Kimbereley in March 2014. “I was very anxious when I got here because I was under the impression that I will be working at St Mary’s Cathedral, an English medium community. However, because of last minute changes I was assigned to Fatima, a Tswana speaking community. This was an awkward situation given my limited Tswana vocabulary.”
His first observation when he got to Fatima was that the community was not ready for him because of his youth. According to Mvelase they were expecting a much older person. It took time for both community and Priest to adjust to each other’s language and culture. The presence of Fr Tumelo Mosito, made his transition smoother because they both studied at St John Vianney Brothers College.
Mvelase went on and said, “There were times when I was frustrated. I became impatient as I could not express my intentions and views”. He later discovered that people’s hearts were open towards his teachings. This resulted in an immense spiritual growth within Fatima, making his spiritual journey easier.
Mvelase was recalled to Kwazulu – Natal two weeks ago to fill in for the late Fr Sizwe Wiseman Nxasana at St. Mary and Ann Catholic Church. Within days of the passing on of Nxasana, robbers started vandalising the mission. This prompted Mvelase to leave urgently.
Mvelase indicated that he is in pain because he is beginning a new journey, with new people. He is sad that he was not able to bid farewell to the community because of the pandemic. He had this to say: “Fatima, remember that I truly care and love you with everything I am.”
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