Church in South Africa launches World Cup web site

The Archbishop of Durban, Cardinal Wilfrid Napier OFM, has extended a welcome to visitors to the World Cup in South Africa and inaugurated a web site dedicated to the presence of the Catholic Church in the country.

"The World Cup has offered a unique opportunity, one we don't want to miss!" he writes. "For the first time in the history of football, a World Cup is organized in Africa.  This is an opportunity to highlight the important role that sport plays in our African cultures.  Sport requires patience, perseverance, respect ... all values which our societies, and particularly Africa, much need! All values that the Church does not cease to advocate: Charity, dialogue with other religions and cultures, love of neighbour ...

"Let us seize this opportunity to offer the world an example of a living church and sports.  Let us not be afraid to move forward, has often recalled John Paul II.  Let us not be afraid to go full tilt, with faith and courage as athletes!"

The web site (link below) will contain regularly updated information regarding the parishes nearby the stadiums where matches will be played, various events offered by the Church, the most important spiritual sites not to miss, as well as reflections on human trafficking, HIV & AIDS, Sport and the Church, etc.  In addition to general information about the event, the site has articles about the Pope's views on sport and the Church's own World Cup, known as the Clericus Cup, which is already underway.

There are also links and information on peace and justice in South Africa, and the church's role in this area.

South Africa is a Region of the British Province of the Society of Jesus. The parish priest at the Jesuit parish of St Martin de Porres in Soweto, Father Thomas Plastow SJ, says they are eagerly awaiting the 2010 World Cup. "The opening match and final will be played at the new 'Soccer City' on the outskirts of Soweto," he says. "Orlando Stadium was rebuilt last year.  Since it seats only 40,000, it will be but a practice venue during the World Cup, but it is a valuable new asset to this part of Soweto."


 Church On The Ball