Religious orders in Lesotho conclude the Jubilee year

Religious orders in Lesotho conclude the Jubilee year

The various religious orders within the Lesotho Catholic Bishops’ Conference convened at Mazenod Parish, Regina Mundi, on September 13 to conclude the Jubilee year.

These religious congregations engaged in numerous activities throughout this Jubilee of Hope to enhance their faith. They designated it as a year of reflection, thanksgiving, renewal, and grace. It was recognised as a time to return to the roots of their charism and to rejuvenate the church’s mission.

This Jubilee year commenced with a Holy Mass to invoke the Holy Spirit and dedicate the year to the Lord. Local pilgrimages were conducted during this Jubilee year by the religious orders, including one to Maryland Parish in the diocese of Leribe. The themes of God’s mercy and reconciliation with humanity were also highlighted during this year, emphasising the significance of the Sacrament of reconciliation for the congregations.

The Jubilee culminated in a Solemn Eucharistic Celebration with the Bishop of Mohale’s Hoek, John Joale Tlhomola SCP, the Bishop responsible for congregations within the Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference.

Following this Eucharistic Celebration, the religious renewed their vows, and those celebrating significant milestones in their religious life—25, 50, 60, 70, and 75 years—were honoured with awards of appreciation.

Thanksgiving was also expressed to the Major Superiors and the committee that organised the various events throughout the year. Their gratitude extended to the faithful who accompanied them during this year of Our Lord.

The religious congregations also committed to living a more authentic religious life and adhering to their vows as they move beyond the Jubilee. They pledged to serve with greater generosity and to be true witnesses of Christ in the world.

Since the arrival of missionaries in Lesotho in 1862, several religious congregations have been serving the Basotho communities across various sectors, including health, education, and social activities.