The annual Archdiocesan Family Fun Day was held on September 26 at Christ the King Church in Queenswood, Pretoria. Organised by the Archdiocese of Pretoria's Marriage and Family Life Ministry, the event brought together families from across the archdiocese for a day of activities. The theme of the event was "Families United in Hope & Joy". The event was coordinated by Fr Erick Samson Mwakibete OFM Cap and the organising team of the ministry.
The day began with a seminar focusing on marriage, family life, and understanding differences within the family. Auxiliary Bishop Masilo John Selemela delivered the seminar address, highlighting the importance of understanding and living with differences in marriage. He emphasised that each person brings their own perspective to marriage and that these differences should not undermine the unity of the family. Bishop Selemela encouraged couples to understand and appreciate their differences.
Bishop Selemela stressed that marriage brings together people with different perspectives and experiences. He noted that when choosing a partner, people may be drawn together by shared interests, ideas, and values, but they will also encounter differences. The bishop encouraged couples to make a decision to share their lives with one another, embracing their differences. This understanding is crucial for building a strong and united family.
The seminar was followed by Holy Mass celebrated by Archbishop Dabula Anthony Mpako and Auxiliary Bishop Masilo John Selemela. The Mass was attended by parish priest Fr Daniel Kivuw'a IMC, Fr Erick Samson Mwakibete OFM Cap, and a visiting priest from eSwatini. The St John the Baptist Church Youth Choir from Pretoria North provided music for the Mass, singing a variety of hymns.
The Mass was followed by a special celebration of wedding anniversaries, recognising over 40 couples from across the Archdiocese who had completed five, 10, 15, 20, or 25 years of marriage. The couples received certificates marking their marriage milestones, which were blessed by the two bishops. This ceremony was a special way to honour the couples' commitment to one another.
Marriage and Family Life Ministry chairperson Mrs Dineo Lekganyane addressed the gathering, saying the event reflected the ministry's aim of bringing people together across all categories. She thanked deanery leaders and parish representatives for their work in making the event possible. Lekganyane encouraged greater participation from priests and parishioners in future events, expressing her gratitude to the youth choir for their contribution.
The formal programme gave way to a more relaxed family celebration, with families enjoying lunch from food vendors and participating in various fun activities. The event brought together prayer, reflection, music, food, and recreation, giving families an opportunity to celebrate their faith and family bond together. The gathering was a success, with families uniting in purpose and joy.
Key points
- The Archdiocesan Family Fun Day was held on September 26 at Christ the King Church in Queenswood, Pretoria.
- Auxiliary Bishop Masilo John Selemela delivered a seminar address on marriage, family life, and understanding differences within the family.
- The event recognised over 40 couples celebrating wedding anniversaries, marking their marriage milestones with certificates blessed by the bishops.
