Welcome to the year 2025, a Jubilee Year for Catholics around the world to renew their faith and deepen their spiritual journey. Archbishop Emeritus Buti Joseph Tlhagale OMI, Apostolic Administrator of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Johannesburg, shares his insights on the significance of this special year.
In an exclusive interview with the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference (SACBC) Communications Office, Archbishop Buti expressed his excitement for the upcoming launch of the 2025 Jubilee Year in the Archdiocese of Johannesburg on 1 February. He emphasized that this event is not just a celebration but an opportunity for all Catholics to revitalize their faith.
A Call to Renewal
Archbishop Buti highlighted the importance of the Jubilee Year as a chance for believers to reflect on their Christian values and emulate the virtues exemplified by Jesus Christ. He described it as a spiritual journey that will draw Catholics closer to Christ and inspire them to live out His teachings in their daily lives.
The official launch of the Jubilee Year will take place at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Johannesburg, setting the stage for a year of spiritual growth and renewal.
Embracing Divine Mercy
Reflecting on the recent enthronement of the Image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the blessing of the statue of Mary at the Mother of Mercy Shrine in Magaliesburg, Archbishop Buti emphasized the significance of these acts in reaffirming believers’ faith in the compassion and love of Jesus Christ.
Thousands of Catholics gathered at the Marian Shrine in Magaliesburg for the celebration, where Archbishop Buti delivered a powerful homily inspired by Pope Francis’ encyclical Dilexit nos (He Loved Us). He encouraged all Catholics to delve into the message of the encyclical and embrace the mercy of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
As the Jubilee Year unfolds, Archbishop Buti extends a warm invitation to the faithful to visit the Shrine and participate in the celebrations that honor the divine love and mercy of Jesus Christ.