Manche Masemola was a young South African Christian minister born in 1913 in Marishane. Raised within a Pedi Christian community, she participated in Anglican mission classes. Her life ended prematurely in 1928 when she was killed by her parents on February 4. Although she died before she could be officially baptized, she is recognized for her faith. The Southern African Church has declared her a martyr, and she is commemorated within the Anglican calendar of saints.
Life and death
Born in Marishane, Masemola grew up as part of a Pedi Christian community. She devoted herself to her faith through Anglican mission studies. In 1928, at a very young age, she was killed by her parents. She was laid to rest near a granite rock following her death on February 4.
Veneration and legacy
She is honored as a martyr by the Southern African Church. Her memory is kept through a feast day on February 4, which is also observed in the Anglican calendar. In the Episcopal Church USA, she is commemorated as a lesser feast. Her image is also displayed at Westminster Abbey in London.