Mrs Angela Boonzaaier, a prominent parishioner at Sasolburg gives her perspective.
My first encounter with Mill Hill Missionaries was when the first MHM priest / missionary arrived in my parish of Our Lady of the Assumption in Sasolburg, Free State, diocese of Kroonstad. This was around 1999. He brought a whole new way and energy to the parish. A warm and inviting approach that I will get to know as the way of Mill Hill. Since then I have met and worked with many Mill Hill missionaries.
The early Mill Hill missionaries brought the communities of Sasolburg town and surrounding parishes where they worked together through social events, fundraisers, prayer events and parish feasts. In this way we got to meet our neighbours and brothers and sisters in Christ. Different cultures, nationalities, languages and races came together as one to celebrate the love of Christ in the church and community. These occasions created strong bonds between the parishes. People realised that even though we are different we share the same dreams and challenges. Their mission of reconciliation brought people together which was not easily happening prior to 1994. I personally developed strong friendships with many wonderful individuals in other parishes.
Today, the dynamics have changed in Sasolburg town parish. The parish is no longer predominately white but a mix of beautiful diverse people and families coming together to worship and serve Christ and one another.
Mill Hill has contributed to the diocese in many ways. The first Drop-in Centre for orphans and vulnerable children was established in Refengkotso, Deneysville. Since then the OVC (Orphans and Vulnerable Children) project has grown strong in the diocese with most parishes having a DIC which see to the needs of the OVC in their immediate communities.
I remember the building of the church in the township of France, Zamdela. Mass used to take place in the home of a parishioner which was a tin shack. People filled her home so they could hear the Word of God and celebrate the Eucharist. This was so beautiful! Their hunger for Christ brought them together. Eventually when the building of the church was completed through lots of fundraisers held by the then parish priest the parish of St Francis was established. Today the parish continues to grow.
MHM has also made many positive improvements to the buildings and compounds of the parishes in which they work. This is always to the benefit of the community. Their communities have grown in faith and in their understanding of their role in the church and as Christians.
There are many unforgettable stories and events I can share but the most striking thing about Mill Hill that will always remain with me is that each Mill Hill missionary I have met and worked with has brought their own wonderful and beautiful “flavour” and “fragrance” through their diversities and culture to the communities and to myself. Each has had their own unique impact on my life and the community. Mill Hill has brought the light and love of Christ to many which has changed my life and others.
Mill Hill has supported me and my family through many ways over the past 25 years. They have enriched my life! My faith and prayer life has grown deeper through their love of God and the Catholic Church.
We have shared many stories, joys, laughter, tears, happiness and glasses of wine together! I also remember fondly those members who have passed away, may they rest in eternal peace. I salute to another 25 years of MHM in South Africa!
(Angela Boonzaaier, Sasolburg 2025)
