Ha Phororo Youth Retreat Centre, located in the beautiful surroundings of Hartbeespoort, is a diverse community of individuals from all backgrounds, united by a shared journey toward spiritual growth. Our members are inspired by a commitment to live out the Gospel values of integrity, responsibility, and profound respect for all forms of life.
As an ecumenical centre, Ha Phororo is built upon a strong Christian foundation deeply rooted in the Catholic tradition. Our guiding inspiration comes from the renowned Taizé community in France, known for its contemplative spirituality and inclusive approach. However, our experience is uniquely African, blending the principles of Taizé with the rich cultural heritage and spirituality of Africa.
At Ha Phororo, we seek to create an environment where all are welcome to explore their faith, experience personal growth, and cultivate a sense of peace and purpose in a setting that honours both spiritual reflection and community connection.
Our vision is to be a community united by a shared hunger for spirituality and a commitment to living the spiritual dimensions of life. We are dedicated to upholding values of integrity, responsibility, and respect for diversity and interconnectedness. At Ha Phororo, we foster personal growth, encourage service to others, and take pride in creating a nurturing environment for all who join us.
Our mission is to accompany young people on their journey toward a deeper spiritual life, equipping them holistically with practical skills, character-building, and human values. Through our programs, we aim to empower youth to become functional, positive members of society.
Through reflecting on our lived experiences, breaking the sacred word and taking care of our environment and surroundings we seek to
Offer a space for short and long stay for those who wish to rejuvenate and reconnect with the sacred through a lived experience with like-minded people.
Offer a space to the youth for experiential learning.
Offer a tranquil environment that enables people to experience the divine, the interconnectedness and sacredness of all life.
Facilitation of Youth programmes and accompaniment programmes particularly targeting the youth.
Academically oriented life skills, and vocational training.
Youth Retreats, Environmental Retreats
Marriage encounter courses for married couples
Breaking the word at Eucharist
Adhering to the values of the Bill of Rights contained in the South African Constitution, promoting Ubuntu awareness, respect and tolerance in an ecumenical setting, practicing Social Teaching in everyday life together with access to appropriate education and training.
We aspire to be
- A vibrant and prominent player in the field of youth empowerment.
- Rooted in the four pillars of community life, community work, spirituality, and personal growth.
- A singular hub combining a holistic spiritual approach with hands on practical methodology.
- Equipping young adults with a broad platform to help them navigate the world effectively.
- A resource center specializing in spirituality and youth development.
- Community Life
We emphasize building a strong, inclusive community where participants live together, share meals, and engage in group activities, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. - Community Service
Giving back is central to our mission. Through community service projects, both on-campus and in nearby communities, young people learn compassion, empathy, and a commitment to making a positive impact. - Personal Growth
Ha Phororo provides a supportive space for young people to discover their strengths, build self-confidence, and develop essential life skills, from problem-solving to communication. - Spirituality
Spirituality is at the heart of our program, with two daily meditation sessions that encourage participants to connect deeply with themselves, nature, and the sacred.
Together, these four pillars create a transformative experience, enabling participants to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact.
Ha Phororo’s spiritual tradition is deeply anchored in the timeless values of Christian spirituality—a lineage that emphasizes prayer, reflection, community, and service as essential paths to spiritual growth and transformation. At the core of our practice is an embrace of the contemplative model of the Taizé community in France, founded by Brother Roger. Taizé offers a spiritual space that combines simplicity, unity, and quiet reflection, inviting individuals to enter into a deeper experience of God’s presence through shared prayer and open-hearted fellowship. Like Taizé, Ha Phororo seeks to foster an environment where people from diverse backgrounds come together in authentic community, united in their journey toward the divine.
Our roots also extend to the early Christian communities and monastic traditions that wove spirituality into every facet of life, embracing communal prayer, shared meals, service to others, and the disciplined pursuit of personal and collective growth. These early Christian models sought not only the transformation of the individual but also the healing and strengthening of the community through acts of love, humility, and reverence for God in all things.
Guided by an ecumenical spirit, Ha Phororo is open to individuals from all branches of Christianity, creating a sacred space for dialogue, discovery, and deepening of faith. We believe that each Christian tradition offers unique insights into the divine, and by welcoming all, we build a tapestry of faith that enriches and uplifts. This inclusivity reflects our commitment to the essential Christian message of unity, encouraging participants to experience faith as a bridge that connects rather than divides.
In addition to our ecumenical foundation, Ha Phororo embraces an interfaith spirituality that seeks wisdom and inspiration across different religious and spiritual traditions. We hold space for interfaith dialogue, recognizing that God’s presence and truth can be found in various paths. By engaging respectfully with other faiths, we not only honor their unique contributions but also deepen our own understanding of the divine. This openness to learning from others reflects the belief that all people are created in the image of God and that each tradition can enrich our collective spiritual journey.
Our commitment to spirituality also encompasses a deep reverence for the natural world. Influenced by contemporary Christian thinkers like Richard Rohr and Antony De Mello, we practice a mindful presence that sees all creatures as part of the body of Christ. This ecological awareness calls us to honor the sacred interconnectedness of all life, fostering a lifestyle of stewardship and responsibility for God’s creation. Ha Phororo encourages participants to live with reverence for nature, embracing simplicity and sustainability as forms of worship and gratitude.
Finally, Ha Phororo is guided by the fundamental South African principle of Ubuntu—a concept that expresses the idea of interconnectedness, compassion, and shared humanity. Ubuntu reminds us that “I am because we are,” grounding our community in mutual respect and care. This value aligns beautifully with our Christian call to love one another, serving as a reminder that true spiritual growth happens within relationships, where we uplift and support each other as one family under God.
At Ha Phororo, these principles come together to form a holistic spiritual path. We are deeply connected to our Christian roots, while also embracing the wisdom of ecumenical and interfaith approaches, environmental stewardship, and the Ubuntu philosophy. Through prayer, service, and mindful living, Ha Phororo offers a nurturing environment where each participant can find peace, purpose, and a profound connection with God, with others, and with all creation.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the generous individuals, organizations, and foundations who support Ha Phororo. Your trust and commitment allow us to continue our mission, transforming the lives of young people and fostering a community grounded in compassion and spiritual growth. To join our circle of supporters, please contact us—we appreciate every gift, and each one makes a difference.
Ha Phororo Majakaneng Community is a satellite community of Ha Phororo Youth Retreat situated in a small village of Majakaneng. There is a group of young volunteers who live in this community and make up the core group. Some of the activities they are involved in include teaching drama and public speaking to children from this village. There is regular exchange visits between Ha Phororo Youth Retreat
Young adults are invited to join our community as volunteers for 3-month sessions, with the option to extend. These programs emphasize self-growth, life skills, and career discernment in a fun, supportive environment. Volunteers engage in community activities, build friendships, and find clarity in their personal journeys.
Labyrinths, Chapels, and Jabulani Hall – designed for reflection, community gatherings, and meaningful activities that enrich our participants' spiritual experience.
Situated at the foothills of the Magaliesberg, overlooking Hartbeespoort Dam, Ha Phororo offers:
- 2 dormitories with 20 beds each
- 6 double en-suite rooms
- 2 self-contained self-catering flats
- Multiple amenities, including a hall, conference room, labyrinths, chapels, and playground
Our retreats are designed to nurture the spirit, offering programs for confirmation classes, school groups, parish communities, and other educational and communal groups. From silent retreats to structured programs, each retreat provides a space for participants to deepen their faith, engage with others, and find renewed purpose.
Facility Price per Day Hall, Main Chapel, Bush Chapel, Outside Lapa Grounds, Gardens R120.00 per person Self-Catering Kitchen, Main Kitchen, Dining Hall, Braai Area, Pizza Oven Minimum charge R1,500 (up to 20 people) Retreat Program Type Price Weekday Retreat Programme Youth R80 per day Adult R100 per day Individual Spiritual Direction with Fr. Chris R400 per 50-minute session Marriage Preparation Course Course Price Couples Sessions with Fr. Chris & Team R3000 per weekend, including accommodation, meals, and course facilitation Meals Meal Price per Person per Day Morning Refreshments (Muffins, Tea/Coffee) R100.00 Afternoon Refreshments R100.00 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Combo R300.00 Breakfast R135.00 Lunch R120.00 Supper R120.00 Brunch R150.00 Braai R250.00 Accommodation Rates Accommodation Type Price per Person per Night (Accommodation only. See menu separately) Flat Single R600 Sharing (Up to 4) R550 Lodge Single R500 Sharing (up to 3) R450 Cottages / En Suit Rooms Single R400 Sharing (Up to 3) R350 Dormitories (Minimum 5, Max 20) R250 per person Camping (Water, Power & Self-Catering Access) R150 per person Volunteer Opportunities At Ha Phororo, volunteers play a vital role in our community, participating in programs that combine spiritual growth with practical service. Join us for a transformative experience, fostering friendships and personal development in a supportive environment. For details on volunteer roles or to apply, visit our volunteer page or contact us.
Facility Price per Day Hall, Main Chapel, Bush Chapel, Outside Lapa Grounds, Gardens R120.00 per person Self-Catering Kitchen, Main Kitchen, Dining Hall, Braai Area, Pizza Oven Minimum charge R1,500 (up to 20 people) Retreat Program Type Price Weekday Retreat Programme Youth R80 per day Adult R100 per day Individual Spiritual Direction with Fr. Chris R400 per 50-minute session Marriage Preparation Course Course Price Couples Sessions with Fr. Chris & Team R3000 per weekend, including accommodation, meals, and course facilitation Meals Meal Price per Person per Day Morning Refreshments (Muffins, Tea/Coffee) R100.00 Afternoon Refreshments R100.00 Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Combo R300.00 Breakfast R135.00 Lunch R120.00 Supper R120.00 Brunch R150.00 Braai R250.00 Accommodation Rates Accommodation Type Price per Person per Night (Accommodation only. See menu separately) Flat Single R600 Sharing (Up to 4) R550 Lodge Single R500 Sharing (up to 3) R450 Cottages / En Suit Rooms Single R400 Sharing (Up to 3) R350 Dormitories (Minimum 5, Max 20) R250 per person Camping (Water, Power & Self-Catering Access) R150 per person Volunteer Opportunities At Ha Phororo, volunteers play a vital role in our community, participating in programs that combine spiritual growth with practical service. Join us for a transformative experience, fostering friendships and personal development in a supportive environment. For details on volunteer roles or to apply, visit our volunteer page or contact us.
Fr. Christoph Schönenberger
Father Chris is a Swiss-born Catholic priest devoted to fostering spiritual growth and community development. Following his ordination by Pope John Paul II, he began his ministry in Africa. While serving in a remote area of Lesotho, he envisioned a center dedicated to spirituality, personal growth, and communal life and work. This vision inspired the founding of Ha Phororo Youth Retreat Centre in Hartbeespoort, South Africa. Fr. Christoph is widely respected for his compassionate leadership and his commitment to nurturing young people's spiritual and personal development.
Marubini Jivhuho
Born in Cape Town and raised in boarding schools, Marubini Jivhuho—fondly known at Ha Phororo as "Uncle Rubi"—brings a wealth of experience, warmth, and dedication to his role as Guest Liaison Officer, Grounds Marshal, and Chef. A devoted father and spouse, Marubini is known for his diligence, wisdom, and caring nature, ensuring every guest feels welcome and supported. Whether he's maintaining the retreat grounds, preparing nourishing meals, or attending to guest needs, Uncle Rubi is a cornerstone of the Ha Phororo experience, embodying the values of hospitality and community that the retreat holds dear.
Sa'ar Shaked
Born in Israel in 1975, Sa'ar was ordained as a rabbi in Jerusalem in 2004 and moved to South Africa in 2013. He brings broad experience in community leadership, education, and public activism. Sa’ar focuses on community development and fundraising.
Pedro Silinda
The senior of the Lions group, entering his final year, Pedro is a strong young leader who sets a positive tone among the younger participants. He leads chapel services and enjoys reading, art, music, motivational talks, and working out at the gym.
Thembi Ngqauo
Originally from Orange Farm, Thembi is confident, friendly yet firm, and has a deep love for reading and intellectual conversations. She assists with hospitality and housekeeping and is known for her responsibility and trustworthiness.
Bongani Nkosi
Hailing from Majakaneng, Bongani dreams of becoming an engineer. He loves reading, writing poems and short stories, and regularly attends the gym. Bongani is also a valuable help with the gardens and grounds at Ha Phororo.
HA PHORORO BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2024-2025
| Name | Office Bearer |
| Judy Bassingthwaighte | Chairperson |
| Tanaka Vengere | Secretary |
| Stefan Gruner | Board Member |
| Jonell Meyer | Board Member |
| George Dalka-Khumalo | Board Member |
| Pam Paton-Mills | Board Member |
| Christoph Schönenberger | Director |