The First 18th Episcopal District Lay Convention
By: The Rev Solomon J G Nxumalo-Retired Presiding Elder
The Theme of the Convention was: Commit, Trust, and Act [Psalm 37:5 and Proverb 16:3]
The 18th Episcopal District Lay Convention 2023, was held from 3rd to 4th March 2023 at Emanuel AME Church Lesotho. The Convention was blessed by the presence of the Presiding Prelate of the 18th District, who tended virtually, CLO President, Bro Makiti, Bro Sisilane President of the 15th District, the LOADI Chair Sis Nomathemba Khoza, and quite a number of the clergy who joined the Convention.
On the 3rd March 2023, the Lay Convention opened on a high note with ELO President Bro Keiponye Phillip Tlhage calling the meeting to order. When the roll had been called, the Convention Rules and protocols were established the Convention was then organized. The ELO President made his remarks and acknowledged the guests of the Convention. Bro Abednigo Matikane Makiti, CLO, invited the Bishop, Bishop Francine A Brookins, Esq., Prelate of the 18thEpiscopal District of the AME Church to address the Convention. The Bishop addressed the Convention virtually. The Convention expresses its love and gratitude and love for taking her time from her very busy schedule to address this Convention.
Annual Conference reports were presented by each Annual Conference Lay Organisation, except Eswatini and Mozambique, even though the two did not attend, they sent their reports. Members of the Convention were given a chance to ask questions from the reports presented.
In the afternoon, there was training on Parliamentary Procedure, Know Your Church, and a presentation of the Interim Financial Statement and a Credentials Report. After training, the Convention adjourned, and got ready for the Evening Worship Service. The Rev Napo Mofo preached a moving sermon in that service. This concluded on the first day of the Convention.
On Day 2, there were LOADI issues, Credentials Committee Reports, and the election of delegates to the Lay Biennial meeting. There was the Memorial Service and the Hour of Power whose preacher was Rev Tumelo Kholoane. After the Memorial Service, the Treasurer presented a full report to the Convention. Before the Episcopal President made his closing remarks, the Convention decided on the date of the next Convention. Then the President led the Lay Benediction and the Convention adjourned.
