Catholic Women Association Retreat in Maseru

Catholic Women Association Maseru

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – The Catholic Women Association of the Maria Mabasotho Oblate Pastoral Centre held an all-night retreat on November 8.

The event was officially inaugurated by the Centre’s Director General, Fr. Ramotinyane Clement Tampane OMI. He expressed his appreciation to the Catholic Women Association for their commitment to visiting the five centres of Maria Mabasotho and engaging in dialogue with young girls. The purpose of this dialogue was prompted by the concerning behaviour of youth in contemporary society, particularly on social media.

One of the priests from Maria Mabasotho, Fr Pokane Felix Molumeli OMI, delivered a keynote address regarding the importance of raising children through dialogue rather than coercion. He emphasised that parenting is inherently challenging and, importantly, there is no definitive manual for raising a child; thus, parents should seek divine guidance in their parenting journey. He cautioned that using force can lead to children becoming resistant and obstinate.

The Catholic Health Secretary, Fr. Andrew Hlompho Hlaha, discussed the various stages of marriage. He emphasised the necessity of honesty within marriage, warning that dishonesty is a common cause of marital breakdowns. He pointed out the signs that indicate a marriage may be on the verge of collapse, as well as the indicators of a successful marriage. He asserted that marriage should not be a source of destruction for families.

Additionally, there was a guest speaker from a neighbouring church, Apostle Manapo Qhomane. Her address focused on the courage that these Catholic women should embody in their mission. She referenced several women from the Bible, including Mother Mary, St. Anne, and Rahab, who exemplified commitment to their missions. She noted that the Blessed Virgin Mary bore the significant responsibility of bringing the Saviour into the world for the salvation of humankind.

Apostle Manapo encouraged women in sodalities to maintain genuine devotion to their Patron saints and to serve as role models for other women.

This retreat was attended by all women of goodwill from the surrounding parishes and churches near Maria Mabasotho. The event concluded with a Holy Mass.