Lesotho has new Bishop
03/12/2008
Even as the sun rose on Sunday 19th October they started to arrive - a thin trickle of enthusiasts, which rapidly swelled to a large multitude of about 3,000 people hoping to gain some of the better seats at what promised to be one of the most significant events in the life of the Anglican Church of Lesotho. Finally the day had arrived for the consecration of the sixth bishop of Lesotho, Adam Taaso, and the excitement and anticipation of the event was palpable.
It was a privilege to be present on this occasion, a privilege for many reasons, not least that of being out of the fierce African sun, seated under the vast canopy of the future cathedral hall in Maseru. This had been transformed into a superb outdoor cathedral with a platform for visiting southern African bishops, affording good views to most of the congregation. It was a privilege to participate in a service almost entirely conducted in Sesotho (which amazingly began and ended on schedule – was this really Lesotho?).
Archbishop Thabo Makgoba brought a delightfully relaxed but dignified touch even to the more formal parts of the ceremony, making it a very personal occasion for Bishop Adam and for Matsepo, his wife. The congregation was riveted by the sermon given by the preacher (a woman priest, no less), Revd Vicentia Kgabe, Rector of St Peter's Auckland Park in Johannesburg, who preached a profoundly relevant message based on John 21:15-17, ‘Feed my sheep’. And it was an unforgettable moment at the conclusion of the ceremony when the Archbishop presented the newly consecrated bishop, who beamed slightly shyly, to his delighted people. The congregation erupted! Cheering, ululating, clapping, dancing, singing – it was a wonderful experience. If only we Brits could be less reserved on such occasions! It was truly a privilege.
It was also a great privilege to be one of only four people making a presentation after the service, before the King gave the final speech. It was a privilege to bring the prayers and good wishes of Durham Diocese and the Durham-Lesotho LINK and to read out a letter of greeting from Bishop Tom.
As with all good Basotho events it ended with a meal – and no, it wasn’t 5,000 people who were fed but it was 3,000 – everyone there being given a much appreciated lunch. It was a truly memorable day and Bishop Adam delighted in it all, but he was mindful in his speech of the fact that this occasion marked the end of one process and the beginning of what will be a difficult journey for the diocese. He urged everyone to turn their swords into ploughshares and join with him in the task ahead. It is our privilege to uphold him and Matsepo in our prayers.
Margaret Bianchi
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