As we move closer to the Extraordinary Missionary Month of October, so designated by our Holy Father, Pope Francis, I would like to share the story of a very special man whose intercession I seek as each day begins.
Benedict Tshimangadzo Samuel Daswa was born on June 16 1946, in the village of Mbahe in the province of Limpopo, South Africa, in what is now the Diocese of Tzaneen. He died a martyr for the faith on February 2 1990, and was beatified on September 13 2015.
When Benedict became a Catholic, he understood that there were aspects of African culture, such as the widespread practice of witchcraft, magic, and ritual murder, which he could no longer accept. His position against these profound and obscure problems of his culture led him to pay the ultimate price of martyrdom. His brutal death by stoning and beating has made him a hero to all Christians in Africa and to all those throughout the world who struggle to be free from the slavery of sorcery. Benedict Daswa lived his Christian vocation with contentment and enthusiasm, but at the same time with modesty and humility, as shown by his Christian witness in various areas of his life.
Between November 1989 and January 1990, flooding struck the village where Benedict lived with his family. On January 25 1990, during a storm, the roofs of some huts were struck by lightning and caught fire. It was widely believed that when lightning struck a house, it was caused by a person who was a sorcerer. According to traditional culture, sorcerers had to be captured and killed, as well as anyone who protected them, because they posed a threat to society. Benedict was aware of the growing pressure against him. So the following Sunday, the village leader called a council meeting to address the issue. Benedict had not yet arrived when it was decided that some members of the community would have to consult a sangoma in order to find the sorcerer who had sent the lightning. But first they would have to raise the money needed to pay for it. When Benedict arrived, he immediately tried to change their minds, pointing out that their decision would lead to the death of innocent people. The meeting ended with their firm resolve and Benedict’s refusal to collaborate. His enemies gathered a group of young people and adults to kill him. Friday February 2 1990, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple, became a feast day for Benedict Daswa’s entry into paradise.
The example he offered through his daily life – as a lay person, a family man, a diligent catechist, and a thoughtful teacher – is what many South Africans today consider the most significant legacy of his life: not against their culture, but for the good of their culture and that of every culture and nation.
Blessed Benedict Daswa – Pray for us!
Yours in blessed hope,