SACBC Council of Priests sets strategic priorities for 2026–2029

The Southern African Catholic Bishops' Conference Council of Priests established strategic priorities for 2026–2029 during a three-day meeting at Khanya House from September 9 to 11. The meeting brought together priests from dioceses and archdioceses across South Africa and Eswatini to address challenges in priestly life and ministry.

The Council of Priests, which is a newly established body, aims to improve collaboration between bishops and priests. Fr. Alex Beukes, the vice-chairperson of the council, stated that this structure was created by the bishops to serve as a collaborative and synodal body for priests to share experiences and concerns. This differs from the former Southern African Council of Priests, which was driven by the priests themselves.

The council identified several strategic priorities for the upcoming period, including financial stewardship, vocations, ongoing formation, synodality, and the changing nature of the local Church. Members also discussed the development of a national clergy database.