Maria Mabasotho Youth Mentoring Retreat

Maria Mabasotho Oblate Pastoral Centre Youth Retreat

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – The Catholic Women Association at Maria Mabasotho Oblate Pastoral Centre in Maseru has recommenced its initiative of visiting the five Maria Mabasotho centres to mentor the youth, particularly focusing on the discipline and morals expected of Catholic youth, especially young girls.

As part of this initiative, a retreat was held at the Maria Mabasotho Oblate Pastoral Centre on June 14, where several speakers were invited.

One of the speakers, Mrs Hlompho Letsie, addressed the girls on the topics of self-confidence and self-awareness. She emphasised that girls lacking confidence often lose their sense of self and become vulnerable to exploitation. Mrs Letsie stated that once a girl reaches the age of 18, she is considered a responsible individual and must take accountability for her decisions.

Mr Thomas Lerotholi, a health practitioner from Berea Hospital, spoke to the girls about the importance of maintaining good health. He advised them to practice cleanliness and to refrain from engaging in activities that could tarnish their youth. He warned that once youth is lost, it cannot be regained, and that losing one’s youth can lead to various repercussions, including early pregnancy and other health issues.

He highlighted that teenage pregnancy carries significant health risks, one of which is the option of abortion, which itself has severe consequences. He noted that after an abortion, the likelihood of developing diseases such as cancer increases significantly. Furthermore, he explained that if a girl who has undergone an abortion later wishes to conceive, she may face difficulties due to the fragility of her womb caused by the chemicals involved in the abortion process, leading to a higher risk of miscarriages. Mr Lerotholi concluded by reminding the girls that the Catholic Church prohibits premarital sex, urging them to adhere to this principle to avoid the aforementioned risks.

Fr Emmanuel Lebese Mokhofu OMI reiterated that the Bible is the word of God and that God communicates with us through it. He referenced several biblical passages that pertain to women and moral conduct, encouraging the girls to look up to the biblical figures as role models. Fr Clement Tampane OMI concluded the event with Holy Mass.