Youth Mark Opening of Jubilee Year in Lesotho
By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – “I am the Church, you are the Church, we are the Church, and are journeying with Christ Master of the Church.” Fr Paul Molefi Sebilo of the Diocese of Mohale’s Hoek in Lesotho conveyed this message as he inaugurated a youth retreat at St Patrick’s Cathedral. These words serve as a guiding motto for the Diocese of Mohale’s Hoek. The retreat saw participation from more than 100 young individuals from the diocese of Mohale’s Hoek.
The retreat’s theme was “Hope – our source of Salvation”, derived from the book of the Prophet Isaiah 12:2. Fr Sebilo emphasised to the youth that Christ embodies the Hope in which all believers should place their trust for salvation. He further elaborated on the significance of the Church’s Jubilee Year celebration in 2025. “Pope Francis encourages us to reflect on Divine Mercy, forgiveness, and reconciliation. It is essential that we engage in prayerful meditation on these vital themes,” he stated.
Fr Sebilo reminded the participants that this retreat was held in anticipation of the main event marking the opening of the Jubilee year in the diocese of Mohale’s Hoek, and its purpose was to prepare them for this significant occasion, which would take place on the following day.
He further stated that the commandments of God take precedence and demand compliance from all individuals. He reminded the youth that their bodies are sacred and should be treated with respect by choosing attire that aligns with moral standards. He expressed concern, noting that contemporary youth often opt for revealing clothing, which he said undermines the sanctity of God’s temple.
Attending the retreat were members of the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF), who aimed to educate the youth on the significance of morals and discipline during their formative years. The representative from the LDF emphasised the responsibility that young individuals have towards their parents, highlighting the necessity of adhering to parental guidance through obedience. A counsellor was also present, inspiring the youth to embrace hope and make sound life choices.
On the following day, Sunday 19 January, the Jubilee year was inaugurated at the cathedral. The celebration was led by Bishop Mopeli Joseph Sephamola OMI, the President of the Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference (LCBC), and co-celebrated by numerous priests from the Diocese of Mohale’s Hoek. The event commenced with the lighting of the Jubilee year candles within the diocese. Priests and nuns from the Diocese of Mohale’s Hoek participated in this significant rite.
The choir was composed of youth from various sodalities in the diocese of Mohale’s Hoek. The Diocese of Mohale’s Hoek was established in 1978, with Cardinal Sebastian Khoarai OMI serving as its first bishop, followed by the current bishop, John Joale Tlhomola SCP.
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- Youth Mark Opening of Jubilee Year in Lesotho - January 28, 2025