What echoes within these walls? It is the story of faith etched in stone at this Chapel in Johannesburg.
Let us delve into the history of sacred spaces in this vibrant city. Churches in South Africa have a long and storied past. It all began with the Dutch settlers. They arrived at the Cape in 1652. They brought the Dutch Reformed faith with them. In 1665 they built the first South African church. It was called the Groote Kerk. It was built in Cape Town.
As the Dutch established new settlements churches were central. These churches became the first buildings visitors saw. As more settlers arrived South African churches became more diverse. The British contributed greatly to this diversity. Grahamstown became known as the City of Saints because of its many churches.
During the South African War churches sometimes served as look-out towers. They were the tallest buildings in town. They offered a strategic vantage point for observing the landscape.
Some churches played important roles in the struggle for freedom. They stood at the forefront of the movement. St George’s Cathedral in Cape Town is one such example. The Christ the King Anglican Church in Sophiatown also played a vital role. Regina Mundi in Soweto served as a sanctuary. Bullet holes in its walls still bear witness to its history. The Central Methodist Church in Johannesburg also contributed significantly.
In Johannesburg the first Catholic church opened in 1887. It stood on the corner of Fox and Smal Streets. Today the Carlton Centre complex occupies that site. Fr Odilon Monginoux OMI spearheaded the church’s construction. He later became the first prefect apostolic of the Transvaal.
Bishop Charles-Constant Jolivet laid the foundation stone. He established a Catholic presence in the Transvaal. This included the booming mining town of Johannesburg. The first Mass in Johannesburg happened in a reed hut. It was the bakery of Ferreira’s Camp. Fr L Trabaud OMI celebrated it.
Within five years a larger church was needed. It was built on the corner of Main and Von Wielligh Streets. The first church became classrooms. In 1896 the pro-cathedral in Kerk Street was built. Christ the King cathedral opened only in 1960.
The Johannesburg Reformed Church was the first congregation of the Dutch Reformed Church in Johannesburg. It was founded on August 14 1887. All the congregations on the Witwatersrand stem from it.
The first church was made from wood and corrugated galvanised iron. Only three years after the first church was built a larger one was needed. It was built on the same Von Brandis Square.
The Johannesburg Reformed Church has a rich history. It reflects the city’s growth and diversity. It mirrors the struggles and triumphs of its people.
So as you stand before this Chapel remember its enduring legacy. Remember its role in shaping the spiritual landscape of Johannesburg.