25/07/2026
Tribute to Mme Leatitia Sehurutsi
Faithful Servant, Dedicated Leader and Mother of the Parish
Today, we gather with hearts that are both heavy with sorrow and filled with gratitude as we celebrate the remarkable life of MaSehurutsi, a faithful daughter of the Church whose life was a testament to service, humility, leadership, and unwavering faith.
For many years, MaSehurutsi faithfully served in St Philip Neri, where she became a pillar of our parish family. To many, she was the welcoming face of the church; to others, she was a mentor, a leader, a woman of prayer, and a living example of what it means to serve Christ wholeheartedly.
As the parish sacristan, she carried out her responsibilities with profound reverence and devotion. She lovingly prepared the altar for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, ensuring that every Mass was celebrated with dignity and care. She understood that her work, though often carried out quietly and away from the spotlight, was a sacred ministry. Every candle she lit, every sacred vessel she prepared, and every task she completed was an act of love offered to God.
Her care extended beyond the sanctuary. She took great pride in ensuring that the altar servers' vestments were always clean, neatly washed, and beautifully ironed, so that those serving at the altar did so with dignity and respect for the sacred liturgy. She believed that everything connected to the worship of God deserved the very best care.
She also took great care of the parish grounds. The church yard was always clean and welcoming because of her dedication and hard work. Yet what made her service truly special was what she did after the work was finished. Once the church had been cleaned and everything was in order, she would remain quietly in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, praying the Holy Rosary. Her labour was always followed by prayer, showing that her service was not simply a duty but an expression of her deep love for God and her devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The church was not merely a place where she worked; it was the place where she encountered Christ.
MaSehurutsi's contribution to our parish extended far beyond her daily duties. She was a respected leader who faithfully served in the Ward Leaders Forum, where she worked tirelessly to strengthen unity, encourage participation, and nurture the faith of parishioners. She understood that the Church flourishes when every member is welcomed, supported, and encouraged to grow in their relationship with Christ.
Her vision reached even further as she helped establish and support parishioners who were not members of any sodality, ensuring that everyone had a place within the life of the Church. Through her guidance and encouragement, many found a spiritual home and a deeper sense of belonging within our parish community.
One of her most enduring legacies is the establishment of Masolenyana a Kriste Morena at St Philip Neri Parish. Through this ministry, she created opportunities for prayer, fellowship, spiritual growth, and service for little children. The sodality continues to stand as a testament to her vision, commitment, and desire to lead others closer to Christ. Her work will continue to bear fruit for generations to come.
MaSehurutsi never sought recognition or praise. She served because she loved God, loved His Church, and loved His people. Her quiet strength, gentle wisdom, compassionate heart and steadfast faith touched countless lives. She taught us that leadership is not measured by titles but by the willingness to serve others with humility and love.
The words of our Lord in the Gospel of Matthew beautifully describe the life she lived:
"Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your Master." (Matthew 25:23)
Today, we thank Almighty God for the precious gift of MaSehurutsi. We thank Him for her years of faithful service, for her unwavering commitment to St Philip Neri Parish, for the ministries she nurtured, the people she encouraged and the faith she inspired.
To her beloved family, we extend our deepest sympathy and our heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for sharing her with our parish community. Through your love and support, she was able to dedicate so much of herself to God's people. Her life has left an indelible mark on this parish, and her memory will remain a blessing to us all.
To the parishioners of St Philip Neri, MaSehurutsi has left us a sacred responsibility. The greatest tribute we can offer is to continue the work she loved so dearly: to serve faithfully, to pray sincerely, to welcome everyone with love, to care for God's house with reverence, and to build a parish community united in Christ.
As we commend her soul to our Heavenly Father, we do so with hope in the promise of the Resurrection. The hands that prepared the altar, cared for the church, ironed the vestments of altar servers, and lovingly cleaned the house of God have now found their eternal rest. The voice that faithfully prayed the Rosary within these sacred walls now joins the saints and angels in praising God forever.
May the Blessed Virgin Mary, to whom she was so devoted, lead her gently into the presence of her Son. May St Philip Neri intercede for her, and may Christ, whom she served so faithfully throughout her life, welcome her into His heavenly kingdom.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord.
And let perpetual light shine upon her.
May her soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Lebo Lentsoane
