A SOUTH African parish priest made his first overseas trip to savour life in Baxenden.

Reverend Lazaus Mohapi travelled from his home town of Namahadi, in the foothills of the Lesotho mountains, as part of an exchange with the Diocese of Blackburn and twin diocese of Bloemfonteim in South Africa.

He is staying with Reverend Mark Ireland, vicar of Baxenden, for three months and hopes to fit into the Hyndburn town's day-to-day life.

Rev Mark Ireland has already spent three months in South African and visited Lazarus Mohapi's parish church.

Rev Ireland said: "It is a great pleasure to see Lazarus again and to welcome him to work with me in Baxenden over the next four weeks and to stay as a guest in my home.

"I shall never forget my visit to Lazarus' parish, high up in the foothills of the Lesotho mountains. I was invited to preach at a prayer vigil and rally, which began at 6pm on Saturday evening and finished at 6am on Sunday.

"The church was packed solid with men, many of whom had to stand outside, having travelled great distances to get there."

He added: "I was immensely impressed by the faithfulness of the people and the enthusiastic vigour of their worship. I am sure that we will be able to share and receive much from Lazarus during his time with us."

Rev Mohapi said: "I am looking forward very much to my stay in England and am excited about my visit to Baxenden and meeting and working with Mark again.

"I am sure I will learn a great deal from my visit and from the chance to visit the people of Baxenden."

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