It is with tremendous sadness that we share with you that, in the evening of November 6th 2021, Francois Snyman was tragically murdered during a robbery of his home. Francois was a South African missionary in Lesotho – serving, training, and loving the people there. He headed up the work of Harvesters in Lesotho, and was a treasured trainer, colleague, and friend. We would like to ask you to pray for his family and the community, who are devastated and shocked.
Two men entered his home after 9pm and shot him dead in front of his wife and children, who are unharmed. The local church leaders came immediately to support the family and stayed with them to protect them. The thieves stole some cell phones, money and a laptop. Worst of all, they stole a husband, father, mentor and friend to many.
“I have lost a friend and a colleague, said Steven Loots, founder and CEO of Harvesters, “Great servant of God. Francois Snyman headed up the work of Harvesters in Lesotho and he has done a great job. He will be sorely missed.”
Francois began his missionary work in Lesotho when he joined an outreach there in 2010. In 2014 he and his family relocated to the Semonkong region permanently. He trained hundreds of pastors using the Harvesters programme and 147 churches have been planted to date. Earlier this year, Francois was part of the Harvesters team that distributed over 1,000 Bibles around Lesotho.
Furthermore, he taught practical skills to the local people – building and farming. In fact, he was a passionate farmer. We trust that the seeds he has planted in the lives of many will go on to bear much fruit for generations to come.
He was even more passionate about Jesus. His impact upon the Kingdom of Lesotho is vast and wide. Too vast to be truly known. But one thing is for sure. The Kingdom of heaven is more populated because of his life and ministry.
Please pray for those left behind
- For His wife, Mariette and their four children. That they will know God’s peace and comfort during this time.
- For all the pastors who closely followed his leadership. Many were being trained and taught by Francois. Pray for them as they continue to lead churches and make disciples. Help them to lead in and through the grief.
- For the projects he was involved in and for the community he lived in.
- Pray that the work in Lesotho will continue and that leaders will step up and not fall back in Francois’ absence.
