More than 500 women from various parishes across the Catholic Diocese of Polokwane gathered at Regina Pacis Parish in Seshego, Polokwane for a day of spiritual upliftment. The first ever one day conference themed “Women Rising in Faith and Purpose; the event held on Saturday 11th October 2025 invited women from the ages of 21 years and above
The day started with delegates’ registration and a warm welcome by the Diocesan Pastoral Council Secretary Ms. Maite Letsoalo followed by the Holy Mass presided over by Bishop Jeremiah Masela who was joined at the altar by Rev. Father Godfrey Sekhaolelo, Rev. Father. Reuben Galane and Rev. Deacon Thomas Ribimbi.
The Conference began shortly after the Holy Mass with the conference official opening by the chairperson of Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC) Ms. Josephine Kataka. Various teachings and reflections were presented to remind the women of their worthiness, the programme featured talks from various professionals. The guest speakers for the day were Dr. G.T. Ravhura who discussed “The power of gratitude and self-care, Ms. M.A. Pitjeng “Cancers affecting women, Ms. L. Marokane with “Optimising Women’s health from adulthood to aging” and the keynote address by Dr. P. Mokoena- Molepo focusing on mental wellness.
This historic conference was organised by the outgoing DPC under the leadership of the shepherd of the diocese, His Lordship Right Rev. Bishop Masela. The aim was to empower women to overcome their day-to-day challenges through prayer. Rev. Father Mashamaite while unpacking the conference theme indicated that it was important for women to be reminded of one simple truth that God loves them and has created them for a purpose; they were created as women not females therefore they should embrace their womanhood and live with a purpose.
During his address, Bishop Masela urged women to draw inspiration from Hannah, the barren woman from the book of Samuel; her steadfastness prayer life until she bore a child. He encouraged women to hold on to prayer in the midst of their adversities. He called on women to be mothers of all children and to be concerned about what is happening in their communities and surroundings.
A key outcome of the conference was the decision to hold annual conferences henceforth; the conference concluded with a final blessing by Rev. Deacon Thomas Ribimbi.
