By Karabo Ntanzi
The Roman Catholic Church celebrated the installation of Bishop Duncan Theodore Tsoke as the Kimberley Diocese shepherd. The proceedings started the day before with Tsoke taking dominium of the St Mary’s Cathedral in Kimberley. Fourteen Roman Catholic Bishops from other dioceses, Priests, Deacons, Religious communities, Parishioners, including the Tsoke family and friends, witnessed Duncan taking the Oath of Office under the guidance of Archbishop Dabula Mphako. Tsoke declared his faith by reciting the Apostle Creed, an indication of accepting this responsibility.
On Saturday, 17 April, 250 people attended mass at St Patrick Christian Brothers College Sports Ground. The guests included 14 members of the South African Catholic Bishops Council, Premier of the Northern Cape, Dr Zamani Saul, the clergy and parishioners from other districts. Parishioners were encouraged to tune to digital platforms to be part of the proceedings.
The Apostolic Nuncio, Arch Bishop Peter Wells, read the Apostolic Mandate or appointment letter from Pope Francis. Tsoke, was presented with the Pastoral Staff. He was then invited to the cathedra (a chair reserved for the Bishops). Representatives from Priests, Deacons, Religious communities and parishioners pledged their loyalty towards the Bishop and the church.
When delivering the homily, Bs Sithembele Siphuka, applauded Tsoke for his choice of scriptures. He said the readings confirmed his colleague’s humbleness and readiness to serve the people of Kimberley with humanity. “The readings indicate that Tsoke has accepted this appointment not because he has some bright ideas as envisaged by people from Johannesburg, but God has led him to feed his sheep,” uttered Sipuka.
The Bishop, advised Tsoke to facilitate an environment that will make people fall in love with God because it will move every stakeholder to carry out their responsibilities with pleasure. Sipuka highlighted that sometimes parishioners make excuses for not executing the Lords’ work, which indicates a lack of love and appreciation for God. He requested Tsoke to be available as and when needed by parishioners.
In his message of support, Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul, said, “It is a pleasure to rejoice with the Catholic Church in welcoming Bishop Tsoke to the province. We pray to God to give him a discerning heart that will always be open to the less fortunate overflowing with humanity”.
Saul wished the Bishop strength, wisdom, patience, courage and God’s guidance to lead the province. He acknowledged and praised the positive role of faith leaders in the communities and encouraged collaboration between religion and government.
The Co-ordinator Father Victor Tlholo, said the organising committee was satisfied with the event. However, there were challenges such as the pandemic, which resulted in a low attendance. Hence, the committee couldn’t invite the Bishop’s counterparts from other denominations to celebrate the auspicious occasion. The water crisis also compelled guests to be booked in hotels and guest houses while the Bishop’s house was vacant.
The 57 year old Tsoke thanked the parishioners and guests. He celebrated thanksgiving mass on Sunday at St Mary’s Cathedral.
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