The Durham Lesotho Link is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, marking four decades of partnership between the Diocese of Durham and its link diocese in Lesotho.
Over the years, the Link has developed into a stand-alone charity capable of attracting significant development funding. In its early stages, it supported large-scale environmental efforts, including the planting of 250,000 trees. It also funded the construction of a replacement rural clinic at Ha Popa, connected to St James’ Hospital in Mantsonyane.
In 1995, the Link opened a centre at Ho Mohatlane, near Teyateyaneng. The site includes a church, a school and a vocational training programme, equipping young people with practical skills such as bricklaying, joinery, metalwork, sewing and cooking.
At the start of the 21st century, further development took place in Maseru, Lesotho’s capital, where land at the Makaliqa Dam was acquired. A boathouse and climbing tower were built to provide outdoor activity opportunities for young people. Over time, the site has expanded to include a 65-bed conference centre, now used by a wide range of groups.
The Link is widely recognised in Lesotho, including by King Letsie III, reflecting its long-standing contribution to community life and development.
This anniversary year also coincides with new leadership in both dioceses. The Venerable Rick Simpson has been appointed as the new Bishop of Durham. He has a long-standing connection with the Link, having visited Lesotho in 2015 and served as a trustee. Meanwhile, the Diocese of Lesotho recently elected a new bishop, Fr Molemo Baatjies, who is also a friend of the Link and previously visited Durham in 2008.
To mark the anniversary, a special service will be held at Durham Cathedral at 3.30pm on Sunday 3 May. The service will give thanks for the life of the Link and pray for its future. Churches across the Diocese are also being encouraged to highlight Lesotho in services during May or at another time during the year.
Resources, including intercessions and presentations, are available on the Durham Lesotho Link website. Speakers can also be arranged through the charity’s chair of trustees, Elisabeth Bryant.
The anniversary offers an opportunity to celebrate a partnership that continues to grow and make a lasting difference.