Sisters of Holy Cross Bid Farewell to Sr Gemma Luka

Holy Cross Sister, Sr Gemma Luka

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – The Sisters of Holy Cross in the diocese of Mohale’s Hoek, bid farewell to their beloved sister, Sr Gemma Luka, who left this world on November 2nd, 2025.

Sister Gemma, aged 84, passed away after a prolonged illness and due to old age at the Holy Cross Convent in Mohale’s Hoek. Her requiem Mass took place at St. Patrick’s Cathedral on the 13th of November, presided over by the Cathedral administrator, Father Itumeleng Albert Ntlhanngoe, and co-celebrated by ten other priests from the diocese of Mohale’s Hoek and Maseru.

In his homily, Father Ntlhanngoe emphasised that the Scriptures clearly indicate that death should not be viewed as a punishment, as many tend to believe. He referenced the first reading from the Book of Wisdom, which states that those whom God loves are prepared for His embrace, even if they may appear unwise to onlookers. Father Ntlhanngoe also noted that in the Gospel, the Lord Jesus proclaimed Himself as the life, the truth, and the way. He explained that by being the way, Jesus signifies the path to the Father, and that the only route to the Father is through death. He reminded the congregation that Jesus Christ Himself died to redeem humanity and triumphed over death to reconcile us with the Father. Furthermore, Father Ntlhanngoe mentioned that Jesus promised to prepare a place for us in Heaven and will return to gather us. All these instances illustrate that death is not a punishment but rather a passage to the Father. He likened Jesus to a traffic circle, advising motorists to be cautious not to miss their exit; similarly, Christians must be vigilant not to stray from Jesus Christ, their way to Heaven.

Following the conclusion of the Mass, several keynote speakers expressed their condolences to the sisters of Holy Cross, the mother church, and the Luka family for their loss. Among the speakers was Sister Ramotula of the Good Shepherd Sisters, who represented all religious orders in Lesotho. Mr Poloko Luka also spoke on behalf of the Luka family and the chief of Mohale’s Hoek town. The representative of the chief of Mohale’s Hoek chieftain, Matsenolo Theko Bereng, expressed sadness over the passing of members of religious orders who are not succeeded by new members. He urged parents to encourage their children to step in and fill the void left by Sr. Gemma and other departed sisters in convents and monasteries.

St. Gemma was laid to rest at the Holy Cross sisters’ Cemetery.

Sr. Gemma Luka was the daughter of the late Mr Clement Luka and Malikhobetso Luka from Phamong Ha Lipakela Bethel Parish. She drew inspiration from her teachers, who were sisters of Holy Cross at Bethel Primary School, and subsequently joined the Convent of Holy Cross at Mekaling. She received culinary training from Sr. Rosina, a native of Germany. Sr. Gemma gained a reputation as an exceptional cook, honing her skills in various convents throughout the diocese of Mohale’s Hoek and Qacha’s Nek. Additionally, she was known for her singing talent. Her dedication to prayer was remarkable; even on her deathbed, she requested visitors to pray with her. She is also celebrated for her diligent work ethic and her compassion for others. She passed away having celebrated the Silver Jubilee, Gold Jubilee and Diamond Jubilee of her religious life.

May the souls of Sr Gemma Luka and all the faithful departed rest in peace. May the Lord grant her eternal rest, and may perpetual light shine upon her.