A Historic Gift of Faith: Prime Minister Matekane Presents New Church to the Archdiocese of Maseru

The Prime Minister of Lesotho, the Right Honourable Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane, made history in the mountainous Kingdom of Lesotho by presenting a state-of-the-art church to the Archdiocese of Maseru as a birthday gift on March 15th.

This gift was presented by Prime Minister Matekane in his capacity as a citizen of Mantsonyane and a Mosotho, rather than as a representative of the government of Lesotho. St Lawrence Catholic Church in Mantsonyane, previously an outstation of St. Anne of Auray, was an old stone structure that Prime Minister Matekane transformed into a modern church. Unfortunately, its roof was damaged by snow, prompting him to decide to construct a more durable and aesthetically pleasing church in Lesotho.

The event was graced by the presence of His Majesty King Letsie III of Lesotho and Her Majesty Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso. Among the dignitaries were cabinet ministers and members of the legislature. The Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference, along with priests and religious sisters, also attended the occasion. The historic event culminated in a Holy Mass, during which the Archbishop of Maseru emphasised the importance of faith accompanied by works, referencing the Apostle St Paul’s assertion that faith without works is dead.

At this significant moment, the new church was consecrated. During the consecration, Archbishop Lerotholi cautioned that a sanctuary is a sacred space and should not be treated as a place for play or disrespect, as it is where the Holy Sacrifice occurs. When the Archbishop of Maseru placed the relic on the altar, he explained that relics are crucial as they signify the communion between the earthly congregation and the communion of Saints who unite in prayer during a Holy Mass.

When His Majesty Letsie III, the King of the mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, advised the congregation of St Lawrence Mantsonyane, he emphasised the importance of being thankful for this splendid gift. He cautioned against expecting the giver to return for maintenance when the church begins to deteriorate. Furthermore, he urged them to care for the church and preserve its beauty.

The Prime Minister Matekane encouraged the congregation of St Lawrence to permit other faithful individuals to utilise the church as a space for prayer, regardless of their origin. He stated that the church serves as a place of worship, and every Christian should feel welcome.

The Prime Minister has generously contributed numerous gifts to the church, particularly to the Archdiocese of Maseru, in his role as a businessman in Lesotho. May the good Lord bless Prime Minister Matekane.