The Diocese of Francistown entered a new chapter in its history as thousands of faithful from Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Lesotho and beyond gathered to witness the episcopal ordination of Bishop Lawrence Ofentse Pheto, the third bishop of the diocese.
The historic celebration culminated on Saturday, 27 June 2026, at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown, following the celebration of Solemn Vespers at Our Lady of the Desert Cathedral the previous evening. The atmosphere throughout the weekend was one of prayer, joy and thanksgiving as clergy, religious and lay faithful united to welcome their new shepherd.
Leading the ordination was the Apostolic Nuncio to Southern Africa, Archbishop Henryk Jagodzinski, who served as the principal consecrator. He was joined by bishops from the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC), highlighting the unity of the Church across the region.
As the ancient rites of episcopal ordination unfolded, the faithful watched attentively as Bishop Pheto made his promises of fidelity while the Litany of the Saints was sung. The laying on of hands by Archbishop Jagodzinski and the bishops present, followed by the solemn Prayer of Ordination, marked the moment Monsignor Lawrence Ofentse Pheto became a successor of the Apostles, entrusted with shepherding the people of God in the Diocese of Francistown.
The presentation of the Book of the Gospels, the anointing of his head with Sacred Chrism, and the handing over of the ring, mitre and crosier beautifully illustrated the mission entrusted to every bishop: to proclaim the Gospel, sanctify God’s people and lead the Church with the heart of Christ, the Good Shepherd.
A ministry of humble service
Preaching the homily, Bishop Victor Phalana reminded the congregation that the appointment of a bishop is ultimately a mystery guided by the Holy Spirit.
“It could have been anyone here,” he reflected. “The Holy Spirit, the cardinals and the Pope have spoken. We do not always receive answers, but we are invited to trust God’s choice.”
Bishop Phalana acknowledged the high expectations often placed upon bishops, describing them as successors of the Apostles and spiritual fathers who are expected to provide guidance, pastoral care and unity.
Yet he cautioned that bishops are also human.
“We must understand that bishops, like everyone else, have limitations and flaws,” he said, encouraging the faithful to support their new bishop through prayer, collaboration and understanding rather than unrealistic expectations.
Addressing Bishop Pheto directly, he urged him to embrace leadership rooted in humility, gentleness and holiness, drawing inspiration from the prophecy of Isaiah.
“The same Spirit that strengthened Jesus and the Apostles will strengthen you,” Bishop Phalana said. “You are called to be a light to the nations, to proclaim the Gospel boldly, to care for the weak and to lead people from darkness into the marvellous light of Christ.”
He also encouraged the new bishop to remain steadfast when challenges arise, reminding him to remember the joy, unity and support shown by the faithful on the day of his ordination.
The Holy Father’s closeness
At the conclusion of the ordination, Archbishop Henryk Jagodzinski conveyed the prayerful greetings and Apostolic Blessing of Pope Leo XIV, assuring the Diocese of Francistown of the Holy Father’s spiritual closeness.
“Today is a day of great joy and thanksgiving for the Diocese of Francistown, for the Church in Botswana and indeed for the entire Catholic Church,” Archbishop Jagodzinski said. “Whenever a new bishop is ordained, the whole Church rejoices because Christ continues to provide shepherds for His people.”
Quoting from the Apostolic Letter appointing Bishop Pheto, the nuncio recalled Pope Leo XIV’s reminder that the universal Church needs pastors “who, with sincere hearts, may be of benefit to Christ’s faithful.”
He encouraged Bishop Pheto to remain close to the poor, the suffering, families and young people, while nurturing a strong relationship with his priests, whom he described as the bishop’s closest collaborators.
“Before being a leader, a bishop must first be a disciple of Christ,” Archbishop Jagodzinski said.
Turning to the faithful, he appealed to them to welcome their new bishop with generosity, affection and prayer.
“Walk with him and support him in the mission entrusted to him by the Church,” he urged, encouraging the diocese to continue building a vibrant local Church committed to evangelisation.
A joyful celebration of faith
The ordination brought together Catholics from every corner of Botswana, joined by the faithful from neighbouring countries. Throughout the celebration, hymns of praise echoed across the stadium as thousands participated prayerfully in the Eucharist. The diversity of languages, cultures and traditions represented among the faithful beautifully reflected the universality of the Church. Entrusted with the pastoral care of a vast and vibrant diocese, Bishop Pheto now embarks on a mission to proclaim the Gospel, strengthen the faithful and be a visible sign of Christ’s compassion and hope.
