Father Pierce, the founder of The Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Malvern, Johannesburg, in 1935, was a secular priest from Georgia, USA. After being denied a request to have American priests sent to South Africa due to accommodation. Motivated by the bishop’s refusal, he acquired land in Malvern and built the church himself, designing and funding it locally and abroad. He then informed the bishop of the completed church, which led to the arrival of three Paulist Fathers in 1938 (Henry Fisher, Claude Collins and Thomas Holloran). In 1966, the Oblates took over the parish when the Paulist Fathers moved to Braamfontein. Over 40 years, eleven Oblate priests have served at the Church of the Blessed Sacrament. The current parish priest is Fr Andrew Knott.

The Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church is tucked away in the colorful fabric of Malvern East. Since 1935, it has been a symbol of community and faith. The Catholic Church of the Blessed Sacrament is more than just a house of worship. It is a real example of the resilient nature of the Catholic community in Johannesburg. Malvern’s development and progress are entwined with the history of the church. Numerous weddings, funerals, and baptisms have taken place there. It has provided comfort during difficult times and delight during happy ones. The Catholic Church’s Blessed Sacrament serves as a representation of unity and continuity.