Sr Maria Rene Khiba HFB, Rest in Peace

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – The Sisters of the Holy Family of Bordeaux in Lesotho held a requiem  Mass for Sr Maria Rene Khiba HFB at Roma Parish on December 6, 2025. The  Mass was officiated by Archbishop Tlali Gerard Lerotholi OMI, of Maseru, and concelebrated by Bishop John Joale Tlhomola SCP, of  Mohale’s Hoek, along with several priests, deacons, and seminarians.

During his homily, the Archbishop of Maseru reminded the faithful to remember the letter of St Paul to the Hebrews, which emphasises that elders who have preached and lived faithful lives should be honoured and their paths followed. He noted that Sr Khiba dedicated her religious life to the  Charismatic Renewal Movement. He stated that when the faithful proclaim that God is good, it is because He is the foundation of every mission.  Furthermore, he highlighted Sr Khiba’s passion for education, recalling that during the winter theological studies, she would engage with clergy, presenting fundamental and profound theological arguments.

The funeral of Sr Khiba was also attended by the Minister of Science and  Technology, Hon. Nthati Moorosi, as well as her students from Malithuso  High School, Holy Family High School, Dahom High School, and Kananelo  School for the Deaf. Ms Machere Seutloali, a representative of Sr  Khiba’s former students, expressed that they gathered to honour the significant impact Sr Khiba had on their lives during their schooling.  She remarked that Sr Khiba possessed a generous heart, making everyone she encountered feel uniquely loved.

Sister Khiba celebrated her Diamond  Jubilee on Jan 8, 2024, marking 60 years of religious life. She was widely recognised for her contributions as a teacher and for leading several schools under the auspices of the Holy Family Sisters. At the age of 82, she  concluded her earthly journey after decades of unwavering service to the  Catholic Charismatic Renewal, which she had been involved with since  its introduction in Lesotho in 1975. Her life was a testament to prayer,  humility, and devotion, reflecting the joy of living fully in the  Spirit. Through her example, she illustrated what it means to be dedicated to God and to serve His people with steadfast faith. “Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Master”  (Matthew 25:23).

Sr Khiba’s remains were interred at the Sisters of Holy Family cemetery in Roma.

May  the soul of Sr Rene Khiba, along with the souls of all the faithful departed, find eternal peace, and may she be granted everlasting rest,  with the Perpetual light shining upon her.