Missionary life begins with listening to God’s call and with learning to walk together as brothers. After a first phase of life in community in Driefontein, the young men of the SMB go to Harare for the postulancy – a decisive stage on their way.
The postulants learn to grow in maturity and discipline, to acquire the knowledge needed to understand and pass on the faith, and to prepare for pastoral service. Daily life is shaped by prayer, the Eucharist, classes, personal study and times of service.
The formation programme lasts three years. Already in the first year the postulants begin their studies. They deepen the missionary charism and are gradually introduced to simple pastoral activities.
Two paths of study
The candidates for the priesthood study philosophy at the Jesuit Arrupe University in Harare. There they study, among other subjects, logic, ethics, metaphysics, Christian philosophy, the history of philosophy and African philosophy. This formation helps them to reflect more deeply on the faith and on the meaning of life.
The candidates preparing for life as brothers follow a formation at the Wadzanai Centre. Their programme includes Holy Scripture, theology, Church history, the relationship between faith and society, and elements of psychology and accompaniment. This formation prepares them for a concrete service in the communities.
Life in community
Community life remains a central element. In the formation house, everyone takes on tasks in daily life: preparing the liturgy, cooking, maintenance and gardening. Regular times of spiritual life – lectio divina, adoration, the rosary – nourish their relationship with Christ. The weekends also allow for pastoral work in the parishes and times of renewal.
Who is on this path today
At present, several young men are on this path. Four of them are studying philosophy at Arrupe University: Anton Arulpragash (Sri Lanka), Akalakou Ngemba Isaac (DR Congo), Bakira Josephat (Uganda) and Lovemore Japi (Zimbabwe). Jean Luzolo (DR Congo) is in formation at the Wadzanai Centre, studying religious studies, leadership and society.
Author: Igor Kopeykin – 30 May 2026
