Johannesburg, November 30, 2024 – A significant spiritual milestone was celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Shrine as 14 young adults received the Sacrament of Confirmation, marking their commitment to their faith and their mission as witnesses of Christ.
The Sacrament was conferred by Bishop Buti Tlhagale, who delivered a profound homily centered on Pope Francis' newly published encyclical Dilexit Nos (He Loved Us). The Bishop emphasized the theme of two hearts—the divine and human heart—and encouraged the candidates to take care of their hearts, forming them in the likeness of Jesus Christ.
“Jesus loved us so much that He allowed His heart to be pierced, and from it flowed blood and water, giving us life in fullness. Form your hearts according to His, and be witnesses of Christ in all you do,” Bishop Tlhagale exhorted. He also urged the candidates to cultivate discipline in their lives as they journey in faith.
Following his sermon, Bishop Tlhagale conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation to the following candidates:
Matthew Matthyser
Ethan Calaca
Tayla Calaca
Diego Lopes
Tristan Kusher
Buddy Zackey
Tkeyah Padayachy
Taylor Robertson
Sienna Borrageiro
Jayden Mauringo
Seth van den Berg
Nikkita
Malaika
Hannah Gomes
At the conclusion of the Mass, the shrine’s Rector, Fr. Rayan Pais, expressed gratitude to Bishop Tlhagale for his leadership and faithfulness as shepherd of the Archdiocese of Johannesburg, especially as he prepares for retirement with the appointment of a new Archbishop. A farewell was offered in honor of the Bishop, acknowledging his many contributions to the Archdiocese.
Fr. Rayan also thanked Deacon Neelan, the Confirmation animator, and Angie, the catechism coordinator, for their dedication to preparing the candidates. He encouraged the newly confirmed to live out the grace of the Sacrament and to be active members of the shrine community.
The joyful celebration ended with a shared hope that these young adults would carry their faith into the world as true witnesses of Christ.
