Saintly Saturday - Blessed Benedict Daswa

 

On June 16, 1946, Tshimangadzo Samuel Daswa was born into the Jewish Lemba tribe of Limpopo, South Africa. Growing up, he worked as a herd boy and studied. After the death of his father, he applied himself to the care of his four younger siblings and provided for their education. When he was 17, Daswa was baptized into the Catholic Church, being first introduced to it by a friend. Inspired by the life of the 6th century monk, he took the name Benedict and adopted the Saint’s phrase, “Ora et labora”. 

            Benedict became an active member of the Church, dedicating himself to the teaching and building up the parish in his area. In 1974, he married a woman named Shadi. They had eight children and would become a model of family life in their community, especially through their acts of honesty and charity. 

            Firm in his faith, Benedict adamantly rejected witchcraft. And so, he refused to join his neighbors in these acts. During one such instance, Benedict refused to join his neighbors in paying a “sorcerer” who claimed to have the ability to end storms. Aroused by this, a group of men ambushed and killed him while he was praying on his knees. Benedict was only 43 at the time. His last words were, “God, into your hands, receive my spirit”.

            Benedict was beatified in 2015, and is celebrated on February 1. He is patron of teachers, principals, persecuted Christians, and against the occult and witchcraft.

Blessed Benedict Daswa, Pray for Us!