As I sit down to write this article, I do so with deep gratitude, not only as a seminarian preparing for the priesthood, but also as a faithful reader of this newspaper, which now celebrates 30 years of service to our Archdiocese. For thirty years in the Archdiocese of Cape Town, this publication has been a source of inspiration, formation, and encouragement for countless Catholics, myself included. And it is precisely through these small seeds of faith planted in families, parishes, and yes, even in the pages of this newspaper – that vocations are born.
My own journey to the seminary did not begin with a clear voice from the heavens. It began quietly. It was the faithful witness of my parish priest, the silence of Adoration, the smile of a religious sister, and the gentle prompting of the Holy Spirit that gradually led me to ask the question: Could God be calling me to be a priest?
Saying “yes” to this call has not always been easy. Like many others, I wrestled with doubts, fears, and questions about whether I was truly worthy or capable. But through prayer, the support of others, and the peace that comes from being in God’s will, I discovered that the call to the priesthood is not about being perfect it’s about being willing.
As a seminarian, I have come to see that the priesthood is a beautiful mystery: to be a bridge between heaven and earth, to speak words that bring Christ into the Eucharist, to accompany people in their joys and sorrows, to offer hope when it is needed most. It is a vocation that demands everything, and yet it gives back even more.
In a world filled with noise and distractions, it can be difficult to hear the still, small voice of God. But I want to say to any young person reading this: if you feel even the smallest tug in your heart, take it seriously. Speak to a priest. Pray deeply. Be open. God’s plans are always greater than our own.
I also want to thank the readers and supporters of this newspaper. Your prayers, your encouragement, and your fidelity to the Church create the soil in which vocations can grow. Whether you are a parent, a teacher, a youth leader, or simply a faithful parishioner, know that you play an irreplaceable role in helping young people hear and respond to God’s call.
As we celebrate 30 years of the Archdiocesan News, may we also renew our commitment to fostering a culture of vocation. May this newspaper continue to be a light in the darkness and a reminder that Christ is still calling, and people are still answering.
And to all those discerning: do not be afraid. The Lord is faithful. Say yes, and you will never walk alone.
Siyavuya Zangana
Seminarian (1st Year Philosophy)
Read more articles like this in our 30 year anniversary edition of the Archdiocesan News
So beautifully written. Thank you for sharing with us and praying for your ongoing journey. May God Love and keep you always strong.
Beautiful article indeed brother Siyavuya Zangana. This is because of the humbleness of your heart which is more revealed in your message in this article that Heavenly Father choose you to be a successor of our Chief Priest, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Because of your humble heart, He chose you to break open the Word of God and invite the same Word to be present in the Eucharist for us, so that we, the Church can be dedicated and faithful body of Christ Jesus.
Thank you very much for imitating our Queen and our Mother Mary and say ‘YES’ to our Heavenly Father, without you, our journey to Holiness stops. Please continue your journey with the same passion brother Siyavuya Zangana. We will continue praying and talking about vocation in our families. God will always provide.