Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference prays for Pope Francis

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – The Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference conducted a Holy Mass in solidarity with Rome, offering prayers for the health of Pope Francis.

The Mass took place at Our Lady of Victories Cathedral and was presided over by Archbishop Tlali Gerard Lerotholi OMI, of Maseru. Co-celebrants included Bishop John Joale Tlhomola SCP, of Mohale’s Hoek, and Bishop Augustine Bane OMI, of Leribe. Also in attendance were Fr Phillip Ntsiki, the Secretary General of the Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference, and Fr Meshack Maine Phenethi, the Vicar General of the Diocese of Leribe, along with ten other priests. Her Majesty Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso was present as well.

During the homily, Bishop John Joale Tlhomola reflected on the Gospel of Mark 9:38-40, noting the tendency of individuals to oppose those who share similar goals. He recounted how St John informed Jesus about someone using His name for exorcism, despite not being part of their group. The Lord responded that those who do not oppose are indeed gathering with them. “Many of us resemble these disciples,” Bishop Tlhomola remarked.

In his concluding remarks, Archbishop Lerotholi encouraged the congregation to pray for Church leaders, as requested by the Apostle Paul. He expressed concern for the Holy Father, who is accustomed to delivering daily messages to his followers via Twitter but is currently hindered by health issues. Archbishop Lerotholi acknowledged the Holy Father’s planned engagements for the Year of Hope and expressed gratitude to the priests, religious sisters, and the faithful for responding to the call of the Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference to pray for the Holy Father.

The Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference comprises four dioceses: Maseru, Leribe, Qacha’s Nek, and Mohale’s Hoek.