History and Background of the Sodality

When called to be the mother of Jesus, Mary responded, “I am the handmaid of the Lord, be it done to me according to your word” Luke 1:38. People are inspired by the life of Mary, her motherly care and love. Mary lived in obedience to God and this inspires us to want to imitate her example.

Formation of the Sodality

Fr. Casmir the priest in Mahalapye started the Confraternity of Young Catholic women (CYCW) in 1981. From this humble background the group spread to Mogoditshane and later changed its name to the St. Mary’s Sodality. The rules and constitution of the sodality were written and approved enabling the change of the uniform to the present day sky blue dress.

In 1998 when the Vicariate was created the sodality made plans to establish its own Vicariate Executive committee. Together with that of the diocese of Gaborone, we have the national committee. Fr. Elmar Kwelegano was the spiritual director of the sodality until he was changed in 2007.  Fr. Joseph Peh Akomeah was then appointed spiritual director for the Vicariate of Francistown.

Core Values of the sodality are: Prayer, Evangelization and Botho (character).

Membership

Membership is open to all Catholic women 21 years of age active in church, who have received the sacrament of confirmation.