The Link
Two dioceses. One lifelong partnership.
For more than 40 years, the Anglican Dioceses of Durham and Lesotho have been walking together in faith, friendship and partnership.
The Durham Lesotho Link was established in 1986, growing from a commitment between two dioceses into a lasting relationship that connects people, churches and communities across two nations.
At the heart of the Link is a simple belief: we are stronger when we walk together.
Through prayer, shared experiences, knowledge, practical support and friendship, people in Durham and Lesotho continue to learn from one another, serve alongside one another and discover what is possible when a partnership is built to last.
It began with a commitment to walk together
In November 1985, Durham Diocesan Synod agreed to establish a formal companion relationship with the Diocese of Lesotho. The following year, the Diocese of Lesotho formally accepted the proposed Link.
The vision was described at the time as an intention to “marry” the Diocese of Durham to the Diocese of Lesotho — a lifetime commitment.
That commitment has shaped everything that has followed.
From the earliest forestry and community projects to youth activities, education, health initiatives and exchanges between the two dioceses, the Link has continually evolved in response to the needs and opportunities of the communities it serves.
Today, that relationship continues through the work of the Durham Lesotho Link in the UK and the Lesotho Durham Link in Maseru.
Two dioceses. One shared journey.
The Durham Lesotho Link brings together two Anglican dioceses separated by thousands of miles but connected by a shared Christian faith and a desire to learn, serve and grow together.
The Diocese of Durham
Based in the North East of England, the Diocese of Durham is part of the Church of England.
The Diocese has been at the heart of the Link since its beginning, with churches, schools, individuals and communities across Durham contributing prayer, resources, expertise, visits and friendship.
DISCOVER THE DIOCESE OF DURHAM →
The Diocese of Lesotho
The Anglican Diocese of Lesotho serves communities across the Kingdom of Lesotho — a mountainous nation surrounded by South Africa and known as the “Kingdom in the Sky.”
Through the Link, relationships have developed between churches and communities in Lesotho and Durham, creating opportunities for mutual learning, shared ministry and practical support.
More than a partnership
Over four decades, the Link has grown far beyond its original idea of a diocesan connection.
It has become a network of relationships, projects and opportunities that reaches into churches, schools and communities in both countries.
Together, people have:
planted hundreds of thousands of trees to help combat soil erosion
supported health and community facilities
developed education and skills initiatives
created opportunities for children and young people
trained young leaders through outdoor activities
supported vulnerable children and child-headed households
shared knowledge and expertise
welcomed visitors and groups between Durham and Lesotho
created opportunities for churches and communities to worship, learn and serve together
The history of the Link includes many different projects and programmes, but the thread running through all of them is the same:
people coming together to make a difference.
Timeline of the Link
1985 — The vision for a formal diocesan partnership
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1986 — The Durham Lesotho Link is established
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1993 — Youth Activities Project begins
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1995 — Ha Mohatlane centre opens
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2002 — Maqalika Dam boathouse opens
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2006 — Backpackers accommodation opens
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2011 — Education Centre opens
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2017 — Durham House accommodation added
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2022 — Kopanong meeting place opens
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Today — A thriving partnership connecting Durham and Lesotho
A place where partnership comes to life
One of the most significant developments in the Link's story has been the creation of the Lesotho Durham Link at Maqalika Dam in Maseru.
What began with land secured at the reservoir has grown over the years into an adventure, conference and residential centre, with accommodation, meeting spaces, outdoor activities and facilities for groups.
Today, people from Lesotho, Durham and around the world can come to the Link in Lesotho to stay, explore, learn, worship, meet and build relationships.
And because the centre generates income through guests, events and conferences, it also helps support the wider work of the Durham Lesotho Link.
EXPLORE THE LINK IN LESOTHO →
Looking to the future
After more than 40 years, the relationship between Durham and Lesotho continues to evolve.
The needs of communities change. New opportunities emerge. New generations grow up with different experiences and challenges.
But the purpose of the Link remains:
“To see children and young people transformed by the application of God's Word and empowered for a brighter future.”
We want to continue creating opportunities for people to connect across borders, to share knowledge and experience, to support vulnerable communities and to grow in faith together.
The Link belongs to both dioceses — and its future will be shaped by the people who choose to be part of it.
Be part of the Link
The Link has always been built through people.
You can be part of that continuing story through prayer, giving, partnership, volunteering or by visiting the Link in Lesotho.
PRAY & GIVE →
PARTNER WITH US →
VISIT LESOTHO →