EPCSA Moderator Strengthens Historic Bonds at LECSA Synod in Morija, Lesotho
- Vumbhoni Shandlale
- Apr 22
- 3 min read
The Evangelical Presbyterian Church in South Africa (EPCSA) Moderator, Rt Rev Adv SPH Nyambi, undertook a significant fraternal visit to the Synod of the Lesotho Evangelical Church in Southern Africa (LECSA), held in Morija, Lesotho, from 15–19 April 2026. The visit marked a powerful reaffirmation of the deep historical, spiritual, and cultural ties between the two churches.
Delivering his fraternal address on 18 April 2026, the Moderator conveyed heartfelt greetings from the EPCSA and reflected on the enduring relationship between South Africa and Lesotho. He emphasised the spirit of ubuntu and interdependence, declaring:
“You are because we are, and we are because you are… We are interdependent. We belong to one another.”
The address highlighted three profound dimensions of connection between the two nations and churches:
Geographical and social unity – a shared destiny shaped by proximity and mutual reliance
Political solidarity – Lesotho’s courageous support during South Africa’s liberation struggle
Spiritual heritage – Basotho missionaries’ foundational role in the birth of the EPCSA
The Moderator paid tribute to Lesotho’s historic sacrifice during apartheid, referencing the 1982 Maseru raid, and honouring the lives lost in support of South Africa’s freedom struggle. He described Lesotho as a “mustard seed”, small yet powerful and impactful. A deeply moving portion of the address reflected on the early roots of the EPCSA, acknowledging the Basotho missionaries who helped establish the church:
“You cannot truly talk about the history of the EPCSA without mentioning the likes of Eliakim Matlanyane and Asser Segagabane.”
The Moderator recounted a symbolic pilgrimage to locate the grave of Asser Segagabane near Morija, an act that underscored the sacred historical bond between the churches and the enduring legacy of those who paved the way.
Beyond the formal proceedings, the visit was marked by rich cultural exchange. The Moderator and the EPCSA First Lady, Jef. Khumbudzo Nyambi, were ceremonially initiated into Basotho culture, an experience symbolising acceptance, unity, and brotherhood. This moment echoed the Moderator’s earlier experience in Morija, where he was given the name “Mohale”, reinforcing the deep personal and spiritual connection with the Basotho people.
During the visit, the Moderator also toured the LECSA exhibition gallery in Morija, gaining insight into the rich heritage, mission work, and historical journey of the church in Lesotho. This engagement highlighted the importance of preserving and celebrating the shared story of faith across generations.
In a forward-looking reflection, the Moderator challenged the broader Reformed church community in Southern Africa, particularly EPCSA, LECSA, and the Igreja Presbyteriana de Moçambique (IPM), to deepen collaboration and unity. He posed a critical question:
Why do these churches meet only within Synods, but not intentionally visit and engage one another across borders?
He urged leaders to overcome barriers such as language and geography, drawing inspiration from Pentecost, where linguistic divisions were overcome through the power of the Spirit. The visit also acknowledged LECSA’s support for EPCSA’s application to join the CEVAA (Community of Churches in Mission), with plans underway to finalise this process internationally.
In closing, the Moderator expressed deep gratitude to LECSA, recognising it as a “mother church” and affirming the enduring covenant between the two institutions—one rooted in history, sustained by faith, and destined for a shared future.
The EPCSA Moderator’s visit to Morija was more than a ceremonial engagement, it was a powerful reaffirmation of unity, history, and shared mission. It celebrated a relationship forged through sacrifice, nurtured through faith, and strengthened through ongoing collaboration. As both churches continue their journey, this visit stands as a reminder that their story is not separate, but intertwined, a living testimony of God’s faithfulness across borders and generations.
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