St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Kraaifontein

With deep sadness, the St Anthony Parish community mourns the passing of Mark Van Der Westhuizen, who entered into eternal rest this morning.

Mark joined our parish family almost ten years ago, having come to us from St Claire's Parish in Elsies River. During his time with us, he faithfully served as organist at both St Anthony's and St Owen's, where he was still actively ministering through music.

Mark's contribution to our community extended far beyond the organ loft. He generously shared his gifts by teaching both guitar and piano to young and old alike, inspiring many through his patience, dedication, and love of music. He also served as an instructor to numerous RCIA candidates, drawing on his wealth of experience gained during his years teaching at Holy Cross in Bellville and from his time with the Capuchin Order.

Through his ministry, Mark touched countless lives, helping many grow in faith, prayer, and worship. His passion for sacred music and commitment to the Church enriched our parish in immeasurable ways.

Mark is survived by his two sons, Marco and Xian, to whom we extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers during this difficult time.

While we shall miss Mark's presence, friendship, and music, we take comfort in the knowledge that he is now singing the praises of God in heaven. We can almost imagine him already directing the choir of angels with the same enthusiasm and dedication he brought to our parish.

Please keep Mark, Marco, Xian, and all who mourn his passing in your prayers.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

🌹 **Feast of St Anthony of Padua – Patron of Our Parish** 🌹

Today we celebrate the Feast of **St Anthony of Padua**, and with grateful hearts we give thanks for the gift of our beloved parish church, which marks **55 years of faith, prayer, and community**.

Happy Feast Day to all our parishioners and friends of **St Anthony's Church!**

For 55 years these sacred walls have welcomed countless people through their doors. Think of the generations who have gathered here to worship, pray, and encounter Christ. Think of the priests and deacons who have faithfully served our community. Think of the many Baptisms, First Holy Communions, Confirmations, Marriages, and Funeral Masses celebrated here—moments of joy, hope, healing, and farewell.

Our church is truly a place of sacredness, where lives have been touched by God's grace and where countless prayers have risen to heaven.

Today, let us give thanks for:
✝️ All who built and sustained our parish over the years.
✝️ Every priest, deacon, religious, and lay person who has served here.
✝️ The families and parishioners who call St Anthony's their spiritual home.
✝️ Those who have gone before us and now rest in the peace of Christ.

Let us remember in a special way all our deceased parishioners, benefactors, clergy, and loved ones who helped shape our parish community. May they rest in eternal peace.

**Thank You, Lord, for the blessing of our Church and parish family.**

**St Anthony of Padua, pray for us.** 🙏

*"May we continue to be a welcoming community, growing in faith, hope, and love for many years to come."*

🌹 **Happy Feast Day, St Anthony's Parish!** 🌹
**55 Years of Faith • Service • Community • Prayer** ✝️

It is with profound and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard Paulse, beloved husband of Abdiya, a devoted father, and a cherished grandfather.

Our hearts are deeply heavy as we remember his love, his quiet strength, his guidance, and the lasting imprint he leaves on his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His absence is deeply felt, and his memory will be forever treasured.

“May the souls of the faithful, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”

Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.

We hold the Paulse family close in our thoughts and prayers during this time of immense grief and loss.

We thank God for the life of Pope Francis and continue to pray that his soul rests in peace.

We continue to pray for Peace and the Peace Makers. We pray for our Pope. May God continue to strengthen and protect him. Amen!

A GLORIOUS and JOYFUL Easter was celebrated at our Parish this weekend. We welcome our Cathecumins as full members of our Church and pray for their continued journey of faith and conversion. We had a Vigil filled with youth voices and Sunday mass with the Zimbabwe community leading us with song and dance. Joyous celebrations!
May the Peace of our Risen Lord be with you all!
These wishes are sent from our parish Priest Fr. Anthony, Deacon and the parish PPC.