By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – Catholic men from the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho marked a significant occasion as they undertook a pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Tabernacle of the Most High in Ngome, KZN, for the second consecutive year.

In 2024, they resolved to initiate all-male pilgrimages both domestically and internationally to rekindle men’s faith. Initially, 22 men participated in the inaugural pilgrimage, but this number has since grown to 32. The primary objective of this initiative is to establish an annual weekend pilgrimage exclusively for Catholic men in March, coinciding with the feast of St Joseph.

This commendable initiative was conceived by Mr Ambrose Tseleli, who organises pilgrimages for the Basotho faithful. Mr Tseleli noted that this idea was part of the Shrine’s vision when Fr Wayne Weldschmidt OMI served as the Rector of Ngome. He presented the concept to Fr Siyabonga Dube OMI, the current rector, who encouraged him to lead the effort and assess its feasibility. Mr Tseleli is resolute in his belief that it will succeed.

The theme for this year’s pilgrimage was “St Joseph, Model of Hopeful Pilgrimages.” Upon their arrival at Inkamana Abbey, they were greeted by Bro John Bosco Mokebisa OSB, who shared insights on the significance of being responsible and engaged fathers, both within their families and in their faith. Bro Mokebisa urged them to refrain from complaining and to place their trust in God, as St Joseph did. He reflected on the Scripture from John 5:1-7, where a man who had been ill for 38 years was asked by Jesus if he wished to be healed. Instead of responding affirmatively, the man recounted his inability to enter the pool over the years. Bro Mokebisa pointed out that men often mirror this behaviour, focusing on their problems rather than seeking solutions.

Fr Augustine Khakhane OMI, who participated in the pilgrimage from Lesotho, reflected on the theme of hope, emphasising that this is a holy year that the Church celebrates every 25 years. He remarked that these Catholic men exemplify hope through their initiative to step out of their comfort zones and embark on a pilgrimage.