The creation of indigenous clergy from native schools in Mariannhill : 1884-1910

Abstract

The article analyses critically to what extent the early missionary schools for boys influenced young men to become priests. It examines the factors which made these schools for boys and girls become catchment areas for native vocations in the diocese of Mariannhill from 1884 to 1910. The study looks at the background of the first four black catholic priests (Edward Mnganga, Alois Mncadi, Julius Mbhele and Andreas Ngidi) and one seminarian (Charles Mbengane) in Mariannhill, South Africa. By using archival sources and oral history the article tries to establish the emergence of early education amongst the Zulu community in Mariannhill and its influence on potential seminarians and priests.