Pope accepts Bishop Seane resignation

Catholics around Botswana and neighbouring countries have expressed shock at the sudden resignation of Bishop Valentine Tsamme Seane from the pastoral care of the Diocese of Gaborone. 

The leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis accepted the resignation of Bishop Seane but Catholics who spoke to BG News on condition of anonymity said “his resignation is unexpected as it has never happened before in Botswana”.   

Seane, who was liked by many and famous  for playing key roles in many peace keeping missions, tendered his resignation this week to the leader of the Catholic Church in Vatican City, Rome- Pope Francis. Following the Pope’s approval, Seane yesterday announced his resignation as the Bishop of the Diocese of Gaborone. In his letter of communication to the congregation,Seane says after prayer and reflection he has decided to step down from his present ministry of leadership of the Diocese of Gaborone for personal reasons. 

“I am still a Catholic priest and Bishop. After some time Providence and the Church will decide how best I can continue to serve the body of Christ,” says Seane. Having served the Diocese of Gaborone for eight years as Bishop, Seane believes he has worked for the increase and deepening of the faith in people. “Many people have grown in their faith and now they are proud to be Catholics. 

These signs of grace give me inner spiritual joy. Our journey in the Lord is ongoing until we reach the Promised Land,” he said. According to the report, the Pope has appointed His Lordship Frank Nubuasah S.V.D., who is currently the apostolic administrator of Vicariate of Francistown to be apostolic administrator of the Diosece of Gaborone. 

Meanwhile Catholics are still shocked by the decision of the Bishop’s resignation which they say was unexpected as it has never happened in Botswana.