‘Prayer session in honour of Arch Tutu’

Tributes continue to pour in, following the death of Anglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Mpilo Tutu. The Holy Family Care Centre in Ofcolaco, outside Tzaneen, in Limpopo, had a prayer session in his honour, amid their Day of Goodwill celebration.

Centre leaders say Tutu inspired them in their work of caring for vulnerable children.

Sister Sally Duigan says, “For me, I just remembered so clearly the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, how compassionate and how kind he was in dealing with both the perpetrators and the victims and their families. And I just think we’ve lost an absolute legend in the Christian church. and I pray that others will rise up like him and give that kind of witness to the rest of the world. I feel sad for his family, but I know that he wasn’t well, and we’ll get peace now.”

Father Charles Phiri says, “He is lived for a long time. For a long time. He has played an important role in South African politics and in therefore I think our condolences are sent to the family and friends at home around him and all those who know him.”

Sister Jeanne Futwembu says. ” I was very upset because he was a very good Bishop. Sometimes I watch on the TV and he gave a speech to fight for the truth and he asked all the South African people to do the good way, to build up peace, the love. He knows the culture in South Africa and helps South Africans to be people of peace, love and faith in God. This is for me.”

‘Sowing seed of forgiveness’

A Kimberley-based priest says the late Archbishop sowed the seed of forgiveness and people should continue to honour his legacy.

Catholic priest Victor Tlholo of the St. Mary’s Cathedral says many leaders can learn from the example that Tutu set.

“Archbishop Desmond Tutu was the man whom I knew as a man who practiced forgiveness in South Africa, especially, with the Truth and Reconciliation where he was involved in asking people to forgive each other despite what happened. Whatever the struggles they faced in their own lives. He reminded us that our God is a God who forgives and that’s what I remember about him – because he was a man of forgiveness and wanted people to reconcile with each other.”

The South African Council of Churches has called on people to celebrate the life and ministry of late Anglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.

They described the venerated cleric as a witness for the justice that God demands of all of us.

“We commit to honouring the works and memory of our beloved ‘Arch’, even as we call on all to celebrate the life and ministry of such a powerful witness for the justice that God demands of all of us. May his soul rest in eternal peace. ”

Former Public Protector, Prof. Thuli Madonsela says the late Anglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu leaves a rich legacy of speaking truth to power about forgiveness, justice, integrity and peace.

Tutu passed away on Sunday morning at age 90.

Tutu’s activism and advocacy work is being praised across the world. In Cape Town, many have thanked him for his dedication and love of humanity.

The archbishop will always be remembered as the man who stood up for everybody regardless of colour or sexual orientation.

‘I will always remember about him of how he put peace first and he always wanted to promote justice and the equality of all people.”  “Archbishop Desmond Tutu leaves a rich legacy, he dedicated his life to South Africa.’ “The biggest influence that I saw from him, was his ability to comment on issues of what was happening in society without fear favour but as well as not moving away from the word of God.”

Book of condolences

Capetonians who wish to share their fond memories of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu have been invited to sign a book of condolences at any city office in the metro. These include the Civic Centre in the Cape Town CBD and sub-council offices.

A look at the life and times of Archbishop Desmond Tutu:

Reaction from social media:

The passing of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu is another chapter of bereavement in our nation’s farewell to a generation of outstanding South Africans who have bequeathed us a liberated South Africa. pic.twitter.com/vjzFb3QrNZ

— Cyril Ramaphosa ?? (@CyrilRamaphosa) December 26, 2021

Archbishop Desmond Tutu has passed away. This is the most devastating news to wake up to ?? MHSRIP and thank you for all you do for us as a nation Arch ??

— Leanne Manas (@LeanneManas) December 26, 2021

So so sad #RIP the great Archbishop Desmond Tutu. A beacon of peace and love. A rare life of service, sacrifice and integrity. Rest well Sir. #DesmondTutu

— Hotstix (@siphohotstix) December 26, 2021

Condolences to the family of Archbishop Desmond Tutu who has passed away today aged 90. An activist for freedom & human rights I hope he is back and enjoying the company of his all mighty father that he served so well.

— Mbali Ntuli (@mbalimcdust) December 26, 2021

Exceedingly heartsore to note the passing of Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu. He was one of the best among us. He brought light to darkness and lightness to heaviness. Heartfelt condolences to Mam Leah, the family, friends and staff. May his unconquerable soul #RIP #RIPDesmondTuTu pic.twitter.com/iCzsdefOvG

— Prof Thuli Madonsela #SocialJustice (@ThuliMadonsela3) December 26, 2021

You have ran your race with utmost excellence! Thank you #ArchbishopDesmondTutu.We bow our heads in your honour!RIP Desmond Tutu pic.twitter.com/sx5X2LRerH

— phumla williams (@mirriamp) December 26, 2021

In Desmond Tutu’s eyes, we saw Jesus’ love. In his voice, we heard Jesus’ compassion. In his laughter, we heard Jesus’ joy. It was beautiful and brave. His greatest love is now realised as he meets his Lord face to face.

Full statement: https://t.co/E4U9AIVzzi pic.twitter.com/bYfuYyz56B

— Archbishop of Canterbury (@JustinWelby) December 26, 2021

“Let the waters of healing flow from Pretoria today to cleanse our land, to cleanse its people and to bring unity and reconciliation.” ⁃ Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Thank you for your contribution to our nation, and the world at large. Lala ngoxolo Tat’Tutu. #RIPDesmondTutu pic.twitter.com/9crOxN09Le

— Minister of Justice and Correctional Services ?? (@RonaldLamola) December 26, 2021