Lesotho Catholic Youth Movement Celebrates 50th Anniversary

The LCYM of Mohale’s Hoek Diocese celebrated their 50th anniversary

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – The Lesotho Catholic Youth Movement (LCYM) is commemorating its 50th anniversary in the nation.  The LCYM of Mohale’s Hoek Diocese celebrated this significant milestone by organising a retreat at St Patrick’s Cathedral within the Mohale’s Hoek diocese from July 9th to July 13th, 2025.

During this event, the youth also marked the 10th anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Bishop John Joale Tlhomola SCP, who serves as the Bishop of the Diocese of Mohale’s Hoek and oversees the lay Apostolate, congregations, the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace, and Radio Maria Lesotho in the Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference.

The Bishop honoured the retreat with his presence and officiated the opening Mass on Wednesday, July 9th. In attendance were Fr Andrew Hlompho Hlaha, the national Spiritual Director of LCYM and national director of Catholic health; Fr Molefi Paul Sebilo from the Diocese of Mohale’s Hoek, who is also the diocesan spiritual director of LCYM; Fr Albert Ntlhanngoe from the Diocese of Mohale’s Hoek and administrator of St Patrick’s Cathedral; and Fr Kamohelo Julius Lebajoa from the Diocese of Mohale’s Hoek, who serves as the Parish Priest for Mount Olivet and St Andrew.

The theme of the retreat was inspired by Isaiah 43:18, which states, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.”  Ms Mamotsei Bernadette Lebetsa, the Secretary General of the LCYM in the diocese, mentioned that they received valuable teachings from His Excellency and the Priests regarding the importance of retreats and various Catholic teachings.

On Saturday, July 12th, Miss Lebetsa noted that they held a special celebration for the golden Jubilee, during which members who exhibited exceptional character and virtues were recognised. They also took time to remember their departed members. Additionally, Miss Lebetsa indicated that army members arrived to provide guidance on morals and patriotism.  On Sunday, July 13th, the closing Mass was held, during which 96 aspirants were confirmed. This number represented a historic milestone in the 50-year journey of LCYM in Lesotho.  This significant achievement was also celebrated in other dioceses by various parishes throughout Lesotho.