“It is a humbling reality to hear that one has been given such an overwhelming and challenging role.” With these words, Bishop-elect Lawrence Ofentse Pheto shared his first reaction following his appointment as Bishop of Francistown.

In an interview with the communications office of the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC), Monsignor Pheto spoke about his vocation, the influence of his family, his ministry in the Church’s tribunal, and his hopes for the future of the Diocese of Francistown.

A vocation nurtured through service and witness

The Bishop-elect recalled that his vocation began in the simple yet formative experience of serving at the altar as a young boy. Like many priests across Southern Africa, his call did not come suddenly but grew gradually through participation in parish life and the encouragement of dedicated priests, religious, and a devout Catholic family.

He described the joy of serving at Mass and accompanying priests on visits to outstations, experiences that allowed him to encounter the Church’s mission in a personal way. Over time, these moments deepened his desire to dedicate his life to God and to the service of others.

Mons Pheto’s discernment was further strengthened through participation in vocation promotion gatherings, where he encountered priests, religious, and families who offered witness to lives of service. These encounters helped him recognize the possibility of priesthood as a path of commitment and generosity.

At the age of 13, he entered the minor seminary, marking the formal beginning of his formation journey—a step he now looks back on as a decisive moment in responding to God’s call.

Faith rooted in family life

Central to his story is the role of his family, particularly his mother, who was actively involved in the life of the Church as a catechist. Growing up in a household where faith was practiced daily helped shape his spiritual identity and sense of vocation.

The 50-year-old Monsignor is the third of eight children—four boys and four girls—and noted that the example of his parents and siblings created an environment where service to the Church was both valued and encouraged. One of his brothers also embraced the priesthood and continues to serve in ministry.

Reflecting on this experience, Monsignor Pheto emphasized the importance of families in nurturing vocations and forming young people in the faith.

A pastoral concern for marriage and families

One of the central themes that emerged during the interview was his deep concern for the stability of marriage and family life. Through his work in the tribunal, Mons Pheto has accompanied many couples facing marital difficulties, an experience that has shaped his pastoral outlook.

The Bishop Elect of Francistown Diocese observed that the increasing number of divorces and relationship breakdowns presents a significant challenge for the Church and society. While acknowledging the complexity of modern family life, he stressed the importance of strengthening pastoral support for couples, not only before marriage but throughout their lives together.

In his view, the Church must continue to accompany families with patience, compassion, and practical guidance, helping them grow in faith and resilience.

Looking to the future of Francistown

When asked about his hopes for the Diocese of Francistown, the Bishop-elect spoke with optimism about the faith and dedication of the local community. Having previously visited the diocese to conduct workshops on leadership and synodality, he said he encountered people eager to participate actively in the mission of the Church.

He described Francistown as a place rich in potential, where priests, religious, and lay faithful work together in service to the Gospel. This collaborative spirit, he believes, will be essential in addressing the pastoral needs of the region and strengthening the Church’s presence in society.

Continuing the mission of pastoral care

The Diocese of Francistown has long been recognized for its outreach to migrants and refugees, particularly given its location along important migration routes in the region. During the interview, Mons Pheto acknowledged the importance of continuing this ministry, emphasizing the Church’s responsibility to welcome and support those who find themselves in vulnerable situations.

He noted that pastoral care must begin with listening and understanding the experiences of those in need, and that effective ministry requires cooperation among clergy, religious, and lay leaders.

Above all, he stressed the importance of building on the work of those who have served before him, ensuring continuity in the Church’s mission.

A call to prayer

Concluding the interview, the Bishop-elect invited the faithful to accompany him through prayer as he prepares to begin his new ministry.

Mons Pheto expressed confidence that, despite the challenges facing the Church and the world today, God will continue to guide and sustain His people. “We are living in difficult times,” he said. “We need the Risen Christ to assure us of his peace.”