Visitors from the West

In January, U.S. board member Dottie Cannon traveled to Lesotho with her husband, Konrad, and seven New York friends. They had heard for years about the three-bedroom home in Maseru where dozens of joyful children were growing up together. They came to see for themselves. On her way home, Kathryn Lurie penned this message to share with us all.

My friends and I were honored that Dottie wanted to share her love and passion for the Ministry of Hope and the country of Lesotho with us. She talked about a trip to bring us all to Maseru for a long time, and she was able to make it happen this year, and we are grateful.

We had a wonderful time giving and receiving so much love over the few days we were there.

The children are grounded, warm and open-hearted, eager to receive our attention and affection. In return they showered us with curiosity, hugs, cuddles and pure joy.

We colored, drew, read, played with blocks and soccer balls, went to the mall, played games and went out to eat. But my favorite moments were every time a baby fell asleep in my arms and I could help make them feel secure as they dreamed.

It’s a credit to Mamonyane and her helpers, including the lovely Masefora, with whom we were able to spend some time, that the children are fed, clothed and educated to the best of their abilities with their incredibly limited resources.

I noted how kind and helpful the children are to each other, too. How egalitarian, self-governing and self-reliant they are. The world could learn a lot from the microcosm found at the Ministry of Hope.

It was a privilege to meet and bond with the children, and I already miss them.

Kathryn Lurie

p.s. — Kathryn posted an Instagram reel recapping the group’s visit to Ministry of Hope Lesotho. Take a look!