EMOTIONS were high at St Peter’s Catholic Church in Tlhabane as members protest against a priest who is alleged to be staying with a woman at the mission house.
The situation sparked outrage among congregants, who accuse the priest of hypocrisy and inappropriate conduct unbecoming of his clerical role.
A protest erupted outside the church, with parishioners demanding the immediate removal of the priest. In a video sent to North-West Unlocked, demonstrators are heard chanting “The Father must go,” while holding posters and singing outside the church premises.
Congregants accuse the Bishop of failing to act on the matter, claiming he is siding with the accused Priest. Some have gone as far as labelling the Bishop “racist,” saying his actions are bias and therefore lack insensitivity to the concerns of the church.
A notice was circulated to parishioners, announcing the suspension of Holy Week activities and services. The notice cites “recent circumstances” as the reason for the disruption and appeals to members for understanding and unity during what is described as a difficult time for the church community.
A letter addressed to Bishop Mphiwe and Father Moteane, the Vicar General, has surfaced on social media. The letter questions why Father Moteane is alleged leaving with a women at the mission house while preaching against adultery. It also highlights the mysterious departure of the Sisters from St Peter’s Church following Father Moteane’s arrival, raising concerns about the church’s leadership and direction.The letter further questions the unexplained closure of Marikina and Tlokweng churches, and accuses both Bishop Mphiwe and Father Moteane of being the opposite of what the Catholic Church and Christ stand for. It laments the removal of priests who were deeply valued by the congregation and claims that the Bishop has planted “spies” in some parishes, including Tlokweng, intensifying fears of surveillance and distrust within the church community.
As of now, no official statement has been issued by the Bishop’s office regarding the allegations or the future of the priest involved.
Father Moteane said he has “no comment” when North-West Unlocked team contacted him.
North West Spokesperson Captain Mpho Manyoba said they are aware of the incident. She told North-West Unlocked that the police were called to maintain order at the church. No case has been registered yet.
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