Methodological considerations on the first black Catholic priests in South Africa

Abstract

This article looks at the first four black Catholic priests in South Africa from 1887 to 1957. It examines the use of oral history methodology in accessing the silenced voices of these priests. The article bases its method on oral history and archival research. In some instances, and where necessary, secondary sources are also used. The article expands on the merits and demerits of the oral history method and its implication for a history of a people who were oppressed and marginalised. Finally, brief biographies of Edward Mnganga, Alois Mncadi, Andreas Ngidi and Julius Mbhele are presented. The article concludes that oral history methodology can actually assist us to see beyond the events as described to us in current literature.