Fr Lehlohonolo Rantho celebrates first Mass at his Parents’ house in Qoaling

In a beautiful display of faith, community, and thanksgiving, the newly ordained Fr Lehlohonolo Michael Rantho presided over his very first Holy Mass at his parents’ house in Qoaling, Maseru.

Fr Rantho, who hails from Our Lady of Loretto parish, was one of four priests ordained on the solemn day marking the anniversary of the death of the late Archbishop of Maseru Metropolitan, His Grace Emmanuel Mabathoana OMI. Following the ordination, the new priest brought the celebration directly back to his roots, converting his family home into a sanctuary of praise.

A Gathering of Shepherd and Flock

The historic thanksgiving Mass was heavily attended by the Church hierarchy, religious orders, and the local community. Among the distinguished guests was the Vicar General to the Archbishop of Maseru Metropolitan, Fr Isaac Molefi Ramosoeu. They were joined by numerous priests serving under the Lesotho Catholic Bishops Conference (LCBC), religious sisters, and a large gathering of the lay faithful who filled the homestead to witness the momentous occasion.

Called to Proclaim God’s Deeds

The homily for the Mass was delivered by Fr William Paepae from St Gabriel in the Diocese of Qacha’s Nek. Drawing inspiration from the day’s Gospel, Fr Paepae compared Fr Rantho’s calling to the story of the man whom Jesus healed and ordered to return home to proclaim the great things God had done for him.

“Whenever God has assisted one, that person should become a proclaimer of the great news,” Fr Paepae preached. He noted that Fr Rantho’s journey to the altar “wasn’t a walk in the park,” making his return to his village and community a powerful testimony of God’s enduring love and grace.

Generous Presentation of Liturgical Gifts

As part of the joyous celebration, the congregation presented Fr Lehlohonolo with various gifts to support and bless his upcoming ministry. Most notably, the faithful gifted him a complete set of chasubles for all the liturgical seasons of the Church—ensuring he is fully equipped to celebrate Mass in the proper vestment colours throughout the year, from Ordinary Time to Lent, Advent, and Easter.

A Plea for Unbiased Pastoral Care

In an emotional thanksgiving speech, Fr Lehlohonolo extended his deepest gratitude to his parents, family members, and the mentors who raised and guided him from childhood through his school years, seminary formation, and pastoral life.

Looking ahead to his new ministry, Fr Rantho made a heartfelt appeal to the congregation. He earnestly asked all those present to pray for him, requesting specifically that his care and love for the flock should never be biased, but rather reflect the universal love of Christ.

The celebration concluded with songs of praise and traditional celebrations, marking a joyful beginning to Fr Rantho’s priestly ministry in the Archdiocese of Maseru.