South Africa – Twentieth death anniversary of Father Giorgio Stefani

Father Fabio Baldan, Provincial Superior of Italy, led a delegation that included some of Father Giorgio’s close relatives. The Holy Mass was presided over by Father John Baptist Opargiw, while the homily was delivered by Father Fabio.

Speaking on behalf of the Institute, Father John Baptist expressed his gratitude to the parishioners for organising the memorial celebration in honour of Father Giorgio, a missionary with a deeply compassionate heart, especially towards the poor and the suffering. He also warmly thanked Father Giorgio’s family for their presence, emphasising that this was a true moment of communion and solidarity, celebrated in the context of World Mission Sunday.

In his homily, Father Fabio reminded the assembly that our Christian and missionary life breathes through two essential lungs: prayer (which connects us with God, with others, and with Mother Earth) and love. He affirmed that the life and mission of Father Giorgio perfectly embodied this truth, and he invited everyone to pray that he may continue to be a source of inspiration for young people, especially those of St. Augustine’s Parish, where he served for many years.

Fathers Gordon Rees and Antony Mkhari, together with Angelo Stefani, shared moving testimonies about the late Father Giorgio. Finally, Father Antony presented a locally made portrait of Father Giorgio Stefani to the youngest member of the Stefani family who bears his name: Giorgio Stefani Jr.

After Mass, all were invited to a community lunch, where we enjoyed a variety of dishes prepared by the multicultural parishioners of Silverton.

May the memory of Father Giorgio Stefani continue to live among us, inspiring our missionary service to the poorest and most abandoned.