Salesians also developing involvement of lay Catholics

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Botswana are expanding their programs for youth in Francistown, where they serve a small Catholic community and provide opportunities for youth through catechesis, Bible study, and oratory activities.

The Salesian community currently serves the parish of St. Teresa of the Child Jesus in Monarch. The parish has 72 parishioners. The Salesians live in a rented house about 4 kilometers (approximately 2.5 miles) from the city center and plan to establish a permanent Salesian community house.

“We carry out our activities in a place called Monarch, one of the poorest areas of Francistown,” said Father Vincent Tembo, who came when Salesians began their work in the country in 2023.

The Salesians have begun weekend oratory activities for youth. On Saturdays, they offer catechism classes followed by the oratory activities. They also provide catechesis for young adults and organize Bible study groups for youth.

Fr. Tembo noted, “We plan to set up a youth center so that the young people of Monarch can have a place where they can spend their free time constructively.”

Salesians are also developing the involvement of lay Catholics through the formation of Salesian Cooperators. Education began in 2025, with the first members expected to make their vows in 2027.

Botswana has an estimated population of 2.6 million, with Catholics making up about 5% of the population. The Catholic community is spread across the dioceses of Gaborone and Francistown.

The Salesians’ ministry comes as Botswana faces economic changes and challenges related to employment, particularly for youth. The country’s economy has historically relied heavily on diamond mining, while the government continues to identify education and skills development as important to the country’s future.

“The work in Monarch is a small beacon of hope,” Fr. Tembo added. “Creating a safe space for youth means offering concrete alternatives to creeping poverty, supporting the growth of the younger generations with educational tools.”

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Sources:

ANS – Botswana – The Salesians’ commitment to young people: a resource for the country’s future

Salesian Missions

World Bank – Botswana