Mission Tours

Hidden Treasures CD launch

Hidden Treasures consists of a box set of two compact disks that tells the remarkable, yet little known story of Centocow mission. Set amidst a site of magnificent natural beauty on the banks of the Mzimkhulu River, this little Trappist outstation performed a vital role in the extensive network of missions built by the monks of Mariannhill monastery after 1886. The endeavour to establish Christian beliefs among the Bhaca, Hlangwini and Khuze people of the region, however, resulted in tragic conflict with Africans who resented the contempt sometimes shown toward the traditional institutions they still cherished. Within the monastery, unexpected tensions gradually arose between factions of monks when the missionaries clashed with their contemplative brothers over the very meaning of monastic life. Dramatic forces of transformation ultimately brought about unforeseen consequences for the venerable Trappist Order. At the end of Hidden Treasures, an additional story entitled Son of Centocow relates the life story of Gerard Bhengu, the talented artist who was born at Centocow in 1910.

The CD costs R150 (including postage) and can be ordered online by mailing info@missiontours.co.za