The Thembisa Trust gives thanks for the life of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and are
especially grateful for his support as our Patron from 1999 until his death in 2021.
‘The Arch', an outspoken prophet of God's love and compassion for every person, was present throughout South Africa’s recent history, courageously opposing apartheid while insisting that the struggle should be non-violent. For this he was awarded the Nobel Peace prize in 1984. He went on to Chair the Truth and Reconciliation Commission from 1996-98. Never afraid to speak up for what is right, he more recently challenged corruption in the ruling classes in South Africa. He was truly one of the great moral voices of our time. And yet he was also characterised by a great sense of humour, laughter and joyfulness.
Archbishop Tutu was born in 1931 in Klerksdorp. His father was a primary school head, his mother a domestic worker. He grew up in poor townships, suffering polio and TB. He wanted to be a doctor but, lacking the funds, became a teacher and married Leah, a fellow teacher. Almost immediately, 'Bantu education' was introduced and they both resigned. Desmond then entered theological college. Taught by the Anglican monks of the Community of the Resurrection, he became a 'contemplative in action'. Ordained priest in 1961, he went on to King's College, London for a BA and Master's, taught in South Africa, worked in London for the World Council of Churches, became Dean of Johannesburg in 1975, Bishop of Lesotho 1976-78, Secretary General of the SA Council of Churches 1978-85, Bishop of Johannesburg 1985-86, Archbishop of Cape Town 1986-95 and then Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission 1996-1998.
In 2007 ‘The Arch’ became the first chair of The Elders, a group of past global leaders founded by
Nelson Mandela who pledged to work for peace, justice and a sustainable planet. Together they
tackled some of the most intractable and long standing conflicts in the world – visiting Darfur,
Cyprus, Zimbabwe, the Middle East, North Korea and Cote d’Ivoire while Tutu was involved as well as
advocating for human rights for all, ending child marriage and tackling climate change. The Arch
retired from this role in 2013 but until his death never stopped being an influence for peace and
reconciliation while speaking out against evil wherever it occurred in the world. His sense of
profound joy is perhaps best captured in The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World
jointly written by Desmond Tutu and his great friend the Dalai Lama
