Lesotho Pilgrimage to Ngome Marian Shrine

Lesotho pilgrimage to Ngome

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – Three pilgrimage groups from the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho embarked on a pilgrimage to the Ngome Marian Shrine, led by priests from the Archdiocese of Maseru. These  groups consisted solely of male pilgrims, with the theme “Pilgrims of  Hope,” while the youth group adopted the theme “Hail our life, our  sweetness, and our hope.” The third group was composed of lay faithful,  led by Mr Ambrose Tseleli. 

These groups have made it a tradition to visit Inkamana Abbey Monastery,  where the remains of Sr Reinolda Franziska May OSB are interred, as well as the home of her congregation. Sr Reinolda, a servant of God, is recognised as the alleged seer of Our Lady of Ngome.

Despite arriving at the Marian Shrine of Ngome at different times, the groups managed to unite for prayer at the Springs, the Stations of the Cross,  and during Holy Mass. Following the Mass, two of the pilgrims returned to Lesotho, while the youth group stayed to complete their retreat. The retreat featured keynote speakers, including Mr Neo John Bosco  Mokebisa, Br Paul Ntisa from the Diocese of Leribe, and Br Senzo  John Paul-Placidus Mofokeng SCP, who is based in the Eshowe Diocese.

Mr  Mokebisa reflected on Jesus Christ as the source of hope, discussing the journey to Emmaus, where the disciples had lost hope after Jesus’ death. He noted that although Jesus walked with them to Emmaus, they did not recognise him until he broke bread. Once they recognised him, they were filled with hope and returned to the other disciples to inspire them.

Br Paul Ntisa spoke about the maternal role that Mother Mary plays for her children.  Br Mofokeng portrayed Mary as embodying the love of a grandmother,  explaining that in African culture, children often seek refuge with their grandmothers when facing difficulties at home. He emphasised that  Mary’s love is as warm as that of grandmothers.

The Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr Alex Lengoasa OMI from the Archdiocese of Maseru.

In his homily, Father Lengoasa stated that embarking on a pilgrimage is a pursuit of holiness, and those who engage in this journey ultimately become saints. He referenced Psalm 127, which declares, “unless the Lord  builds the house, the builders labour in vain.” The pilgrims reached  Lesotho safely on Sunday.