Galeshewe’s St Boniface Catholic Church celebrates centenary as community calls for heritage status

AS ST BONIFACE Catholic Church celebrates its 100th anniversary this weekend, Galeshewe community members are advocating for the building to be declared a heritage site.

The church was established on December 8, 1925, in Corless Road, Kirstenhof, in Kimberley by missionary Bishop Herman Joseph Meysing and Father Anton Jager. The church served as a haven for Struggle heroes and heroines during the 1970s protests against apartheid, as well as during later years.

St Boniface Church parish priest Father Tumelo Mosito said the church had a rich history and stood tall during the Second World War, and was held in high regard by the Christian community.

“It is for these, and many other reasons – including the many professionals produced by St Boniface School – that the community wishes it to be declared a heritage site.”

He added that a celebratory Mass would be held at the church on December 13 at 10am, followed by the unveiling of a memorial stone in honour of the late German missionary and Oblate of Mary Immaculate, Bishop Erwin Hecht.

"Parishioners and many invited guests will celebrate this significant milestone. Most men of the cloth in the Catholic faith are proud to be part of the centenary celebration. Attending the event are priests who previously served the St Boniface parishioners, including Fathers Bernard Seane, Sebogodi Jebetle, and Modisa Sekao. The keynote address will be delivered by the Shepherd of the Kimberley Diocese, His Worship Bishop Duncan Tsoke. To round off the day, everyone will be treated to a full lunch,"  Mosito said.