Winter School for Lesotho Religious Sisters

Winter School for religious sisters in Lesotho

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – Sisters from various congregations gathered at a winter school held at St James Convent in Mokhotlong, within the diocese of Qacha’s Nek, from June 29- July 6.

Approximately 70 participants representing all congregations in Lesotho attended this event. This annual gathering is designed to enhance the life skills and knowledge sharing among the religious sisters. Such events provide the sisters with opportunities to acquire new skills that strengthen their faith. Each year, the sisters invite different experts to assist them in their capacity building and skill development.

This year, their distinguished guest was Fr Dr Benedict Mosiuoa Makhata CSS, a Parish Priest of Bethel and an expert in trauma counselling. Fr Makhata delivered an impactful address on the religious life, discussing how it can be best lived, the challenges faced by those in religious life, and strategies for overcoming these challenges. He also emphasised the significance of church choirs and their role in guiding the congregation with appropriate hymns during the sacrificial Mass. Fr Makhata CSS stressed the importance of the congregation’s active participation alongside the Mass choirs to ensure that everyone finds relevance in the Holy Mass.

Sr Anne from Namibia was another key guest at the winter school. She spoke of her mission to travel across Africa, assisting congregations in integrating their native cultures with their religious practices. Sr Anne noted the necessity of this integration to adapt to the new traditions of the modern world. She asserted that it is crucial for mutual understanding to prevail, irrespective of age or status. Sr. Anne expressed that they cannot tolerate situations where the opinions of younger sisters are dismissed as disrespectful. She underscored the importance of communication for the growth of congregations.

One of the participants, Sr Grace Mosola from St Joseph of Hyacinth congregation, said that the winter school has been immensely beneficial, as they learn a great deal from other congregations.

She stated that insights gained from experts are crucial as they play a significant role in integral human development.  She mentioned that the winter school serves as a therapeutic environment, allowing students to engage in enjoyable activities after classes. She emphasised that this experience enables them to return to their daily routines feeling energised and psychologically well.

This initiative exemplifies the characteristics of a synodal church and a pilgrimage church, embodying hope in the year of HOPE.