Archdiocesan News Marks a Milestone in the Jubilee Year
Bishop Sylvester David OMI reflects on the 30th anniversary of the Archdiocesan News,
In a year imbued with grace and reflection, as the global Church celebrates the Jubilee Year 2025 under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” the Archdiocesan News marks an extraordinary milestone: thirty years of continuous publication in service of the Church in Cape Town. This anniversary is more than a commemoration of years; it is a testimony to perseverance, prophetic witness, and the shared faith journey of our local Catholic community.
A Voice for the Archdiocese
Founded in 1995, in the wake of South Africa’s democratic transition, Archdiocesan News emerged as a much-needed platform for the Church to speak, teach, and listen; both within and beyond the pews. Over three decades, it has chronicled the life of the local Church: from the voices of young catechumens and jubilarians, to synodal listening sessions, vocations, pastoral outreach, and stories of hope from our parishes, schools, and missions.The publication has grown from a modest quarterly newsletter into a vital communication tool, reaching Catholics across the Archdiocese and beyond. Through the work of dedicated editors, contributors, clergy, and laity, it has borne consistent witness to the Gospel amid changing social, political, and technological landscapes.
Jubilee Year 2025: Pilgrims of Hope
This year, the Church has been invited into a sacred time of pilgrimage and renewal, a Jubilee. With its roots in the biblical tradition of liberation, rest, and restoration, the Jubilee Year calls the faithful to reconciliation with God, neighbour, and creation.
Locally, Archdiocesan News has embraced this invitation by highlighting pilgrimages, parish missions, the reopening of Holy Doors, and testimonies of spiritual renewal. The themes of mercy, healing, and ecological conversion echoing Laudato Si’, and the recent Laudate Deum have found their way into the pages of each issue.
In a time when the world is marked by conflict, climate crises, and a hunger for meaning, the Church’s mission to be a beacon of hope is more vital than ever. The publication has remained committed to amplifying stories that reflect the resilience and solidarity of the faithful, from social justice ministries to the tireless work of Catholic healthcare, Caritas, and education professionals.
Walking Together: A Synodal Church
In alignment with the spirit of the ongoing Synod on Synodality, Archdiocesan News has championed the Church’s call to journey together. Through special features, interviews, and community voices, the paper has fostered a deeper awareness of synodality as a lived reality and not just a concept. It has provided space for dialogue, lament, gratitude, and dreaming; a true accompaniment of the people of God.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
As we celebrate thirty years, we also give thanks for all who have contributed: from founding editors and publishers, layout designers to parish correspondents, photographers, and readers. Their commitment has shaped Archdiocesan News into more than just a publication. It has become a ministry.
Looking ahead, the mission continues. In the words of St. Paul, “We do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord” (2 Cor 4:5). As the Archdiocese embraces the Jubilee invitation to hope and mission, Archdiocesan News renews its commitment to proclaiming Christ, and to journeying with the people of Cape Town in faith, justice, and love.
Ad multos annos. Here’s to many more years as pilgrims of hope, walking together.
+ Sylvester David OMI
Auxiliary Bishop of Cape Town
Thank you for do many hours of work to bring us this news. Much appreciated sir