Regina Mundi Catholic Church in Moroka, Soweto, was built in 1964.
This church is not only one of the largest in Africa, but it also possesses a unique history. It gained fame during the apartheid years by welcoming anti-apartheid groups and activists. During that time, church services often evolved into political rallies. Today, it continues to be a vital institution and remains a spiritual haven for thousands of people in Soweto, attracting tourists from around the globe.
On June 16, 1976, protesting students sought refuge in Regina Mundi to escape police gunfire and tear gas. The police followed them into the church, firing live ammunition and damaging some of the church’s sacred figures. The marks left by the bullets are still visible in the church today.
Between 1995 and 1998, part of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings took place at Regina Mundi.
On November 30, 1997, Nelson Mandela honored the church during a ceremony marking its restoration and designated this day as Regina Mundi Day.
In his speech, Mr Mandela said Regina Mundi is “a church that refused to allow God’s name to be used to justify discrimination and repression”.
In March 1998 Regina Mundi made international headlines when President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary visited the church, and recently, on 22 June 2011, the American first lady, Michelle Obama visited the church and addressed women from different countries.
The A-shaped exterior of the building is quite simple in design compared to most catholic churches. Its main feature is the vast interior.
It can seat 2000 people and has standing room for another 5000 people.
The most prominent artifacts in the church are, a picture of The Black Madonna depicting a black Virgin Mary holding a black infant, Jesus. It was created in 1973 by Larry Scully as a part of a campaign to raise funds for the education of black South Africans, the second one being its stained-glass windows, decorated with the scenery of Mary’s life. These windows were donated by Mrs Jolanta Kwasniewska, wife of the President of the Republic of Poland in 1998.
The church’s garden has been transformed into a beautiful park with memorial stones donated by Japanese Christians. It’s well-manicured lawns join Tokoza Park.
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