Bethel Parish in Mohale’s Hoek, Lesotho is 116 years old

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – Bethel  Parish is among the oldest missions within the diocese of Mohale’s  Hoek, constructed in honour of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is the only  Stigmatine Congregation Parish in Lesotho and is associated with a native of Mosotho who is currently being considered for Sainthood.

The Parish was founded in 1909 following a donation of over 400 pounds,  which was allocated for the establishment of a Parish dedicated to the veneration of the Sacred Heart. Several Christians played a pivotal role in advocating for the creation of this Parish.

Positioned in the mountainous region of the country, the surrounding community faces challenges due to limited trade opportunities and a lack of employment,  yet they remain steadfast in their faith.

Among the influential figures was Eulalia Malebaka Mokhosi, recognised as  MaGabriel, Servant of God. Additionally, Paul Malephane served as the advisor to the Chief of Phamong and Makori.

Fr  Benedict Mosiuoa Makhata CSS, the Parish Priest of Bethel, has been diligently working to enhance the Parish to better accommodate pilgrims visiting this remarkable site. One of the significant developments has been the renovation of the priests’ house.

Fr Makhata said that the Parish has assigned various responsibilities to its parishioners to raise funds for the renovation of the Presbytery. Hon Lebohang William  Hlaele, a member of the national assembly from the area, took the initiative to engage with the Minister of Home Affairs and Local  Government, Hon Lebona Lephema. Hon Lephema generously provided a substantial quantity of cement, which greatly aided the renovation efforts. Additionally, other local businesspeople, including the member of the national assembly from the Phamong constituency and local chiefs,  also offered their assistance.

On  Sunday, December 7th, the Parish of Bethel invited Hon Lephema to express their gratitude for his contributions to the development of their Parish. During his visit, Hon Lephema was shown around the renovated house and extended further support of R75,000.00 for the finishing touches of the Presbytery and the renovation of the Bethel outstation in Sealuma.

Fr  Makhata noted that the renovated house will be particularly useful as the Parish celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Priestly ordination of its son, Fr Thabang Khamali, and the one-year anniversary of Fr  Gregory Khoabane Lelimo CSS.

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on us