Ordination of Fr Francis Maanela in Maseru

By Bokang Tsoanamatsie – Fr Francis Tsehla Maanela was ordained to the priesthood on April 11, 2026, at Our Lady of Loretto, Qoaling, Archdiocese of Maseru. He takes over from Fr Matekane OMI, who was ordained several years prior. This significant occasion was officiated by Archbishop Tlali Gerard Lerotholi OMI of Maseru and was concelebrated by numerous priests, including those from South Africa and Botswana.

A considerable number of religious congregations were also in attendance at this event. During his homily, the Archbishop of Maseru reminded the congregation that while many are called, only a few are chosen.

When Fr Maanela expressed his eagerness to join the Holy Priesthood, the Archbishop referred him to the seminary and encouraged him to serve as a Priest for the poor and the overlooked members of the community, as he is a Priest of Jesus, who loved such individuals. The Archbishop said that as a Priest, he must embody fatherly love towards those he shepherds and that a priest is a servant to others and should not expect to be served, urging Fr Maanela to uphold the virtue of obedience.

Archbishop Lerotholi said that he is responsible for administering Sacraments and must always be prepared to bless his congregation, even in casual encounters on the street, as he has been entrusted with this unique gift.

Following this brief homily, His Grace ordained Deacon Maanela, and he was subsequently proclaimed a Priest after the ordination rite, which was followed by his blessing of the Archbishop, the Priests, and his parents. At the conclusion of the Holy Mass, a few keynote speakers were given the opportunity to express their gratitude, and Fr Maanela’s Grandfather, on behalf of the Maanela family, thanked God for fulfilling his long-standing prayer of having a Priest in the Maanela family.

Fr Patrick Sekome, who has served as a mentor to Fr Maanela at Bethany Parish during his pastoral assignment, expressed deep gratitude for Fr Maanela’s ordination, affirming that he is truly deserving of this honour.

The newly ordained priest reflected on his childhood memories, recalling the moment when the call to the priesthood resonated within him while he was in Form C, and he was advised to complete his high school education first. He reminisced about his eagerness to enter the seminary, which he eventually did, successfully passing through the necessary stages. However, he also recalled the sorrow of losing a friend and fellow seminarian to an untimely death, a memory that brought him to tears. He concluded his reflections by expressing heartfelt appreciation to his parents and all those who contributed to making his journey possible.

Fr Francis Tsehla Maanela, the son of the late Mr Lepokola Maanela and Mrs Matsehla Maanela, was raised in Lithoteng, Maseru. He served as an altar server at Our Lady of Loreto Parish in the Archdiocese of Maseru.

May the Spirit of the Lord accompany Fr Francis Tsehla Maanela as he dedicates himself to the Lord’s vineyard.