At Christmas, Southern Africa’s Catholic Bishops Call for “new humanity brought about by Jesus” amid Global Challenges

Restoring Union with God

In the statement that SACBC President, Bishop Sithembele Sipuka, signed, the Catholic Church leaders describe Christmas as a joyful season because it celebrates “God becoming human,” reopening the possibility of union between God and humanity. 

“Like a child separated from its mother, we should be happy at the prospect of finally being united with our God,” SACBC members say.

The Relevance of Jesus Today

The Catholic Bishops underscore the relevance of Jesus’ example in addressing the moral and social challenges of the modern world. 

They pointed to the “increasing difficulty in living a truly human life amid dehumanizing practices and systemic injustices.”

“Jesus came to show us the right way of being human,” SACBC members say.

Global Inequalities and Modern Slavery

In their message, Catholic Bishops in Southern Africa draw attention to modern forms of slavery, including global economic disparities that marginalize billions of people. 

They cite “stark statistics”, noting that the ten wealthiest individuals collectively own more wealth than 3.1 billion people at the bottom of the wealth pyramid.

“The present form of globalization is exclusive,” SACBC members say, adding, “It promises economic growth for all but benefits only a few, mainly in Europe and America.”

They echo the calls of recent Popes for a globalization of solidarity, inclusion, and sympathy rather than one driven by indifference and exclusion.

Conflict in the Holy Land and Local Violence

Reflecting on global conflicts, SACBC members condemn the disproportionate response of Israel to Hamas attacks, which has led to the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians, including women and children.

“While Hamas’ actions are unacceptable, Israel’s heavy-handed response is totally inhumane,” SACBC members further say, aligning with Pope Francis’ declaration that such actions are “beyond morality.”

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The Catholic Church leaders' message also address local challenges, such as the rise in gender-based violence, family murders, and economic extortions in areas like Mthatha, describing these acts as a reflection of a loss of humanity.

A Call to Embrace Ubuntu 

Against this backdrop, SACBC members emphasize the African philosophy of “ubuntu” — a sense of interconnectedness and shared humanity — as a foundation for rebuilding society.

“Jesus calls us back to ubuntu, which forms the stem of our identity as abantu, but which we have replaced with animality in our behavior,” the Catholic Bishops say.

They implore, “As we celebrate Christmas, let us allow Christ’s light to shine in our hearts and communities, transforming the world into a place of true unity and peace.”