|
Lesotho Religion primarily constitutes Christianity since 80% of the people are Christians. Out of this 80%, Roman Catholics and Lesotho Evangelicals and Anglicans form a major part of the Christian religion. Various indigenous religions exist in Lesotho which are mostly followed by the native tribes of the country. The Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists and the people following the traditional religions of Lesotho make up the remaining 10% of the population. Christianity being the major Lesotho Religion, the Christians inhabit almost all the regions of the country. Asian Muslims inhabit the north-eastern part of Lesotho.
The churches have a vast influence on the lives of Lesotho people, since a majority of the Basotho community observes Roman Catholicism. For most of the people in the country, the church is the ultimate source of social activity. The missionaries present in the land are either evangelical, traditional Protestant or Catholic. These missionaries originally belong to the regions of Europe, North America and South Africa.
Some of the features of the local culture of Lesotho are incorporated in the services of the Catholic Church. The singing of hymns during the services is done in a traditional manner and at times in the local language of Sesotho.
Although the chief Lesotho religion is Christianity, it has well embraced the local customs and forms one of the most significant facets of Lesotho culture.
The four religious holidays that are observed in Lesotho are also related to Christianity, namely, Christmas, Easter Monday, Good Friday and Ascension Day. The constitution of Lesotho has offered religious rights to its citizens and the abuse of this right is a punishable crime.
|
