The ordination of the new Bishop of the diocese of Polokwane started at 9 am as planned. Archbishop Buti Thlagale OMI (archdiocese of Johannesburg) was the main celebrant. The archbishop of Pretoria (William Slattery OFM) and the bishop of Tzaneen (Joao Rodrigues) were next to him.
As always, at the end of the celebration came the time for the speeches: Bishop Siphuka (vice president of our conference) in the name of the bishops, a family representative, a representative of the clergy and Mr Mkhabela in the name of the diocesan pastoral council.
The last one... the first words of the new bishop of the Diocese. He thanked the Nuncio for the way he presented to him the news of his appointment and for helping him to accept it as God's will.
Then he addressed the priests. After being ordained bishop, one by one they had gone to him to congratulate him and together committed themselves to work with him: "We the priests of the Diocese of Polokwane, welcome you as our pastor and accept you wholeheartedly. Bless and accept our pledge and loyalty".
The Bishop shared this message with them. "Up to this I was a priest with you. From today I am your servant". He welcome constructive criticism, encouraged them to work together and committed himself to be available to them as much as possible.
Bishop Masela is the third bishop of this diocese and the first one chosen from among the priests of the diocese.
The new bishop blessed all those present
