Overview
In a bid to foster greater camaraderie among Ghana’s diocesan priests, the National Union of Ghana Catholic Diocesan Priests’ Association (NUGDPA) announced at its 2023 congress in Koforidua that provincial congresses would be held biennially, while national congresses would take place every four years. In line with this directive, the Accra Province, comprising the Archdiocese of Accra and the Dioceses of Ho, Jasikan, Keta-Akatsi, and Koforidua, as well as the Apostolic Vicariate of Donkorkrom, recently convened its provincial congress. Held on October 6, 2025, at Sancta Barbara Catholic Church in Akosombo, the gathering centered on the theme “Welfare of the Diocesan Priest in the Jubilee Year of Hope: Prospects and Challenges,” bringing together priests from across the province to discuss pertinent issues affecting their welfare and ministry.
Part One: Holy Mass
The Holy Mass was presided over by Most Rev. Joseph Afrifah-Agyekum, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Koforidua, and concelebrated by all priests who were present for the congress with a homily delivered by Very Rev. Fr. Henry Ahorlu, President of the Accra Archdiocesan Priests’ Association. In his reflections, Fr. Ahorlu emphasised that detachment from priestly fraternity often marks the beginning of crises in a priest’s life, stressing that “No priest survives as a loner.” Meanwhile, Bishop Afrifah-Agyekum, in his remarks on the congress theme, urged priests to prioritise their health, noting that a healthy priest is a precious gift to the Church. He advised priests to regularly undergo medical check-ups and be mindful of their diet and lifestyle. The Holy Mass drew a warm gathering of faithful, including the chairperson of the Akosombo Parish Pastoral Council, who extended a heartfelt welcome to the priests. The Santa Barbara Church Choir added to the solemnity of the occasion with their melodious singing during the liturgy. Members of the Santa Barbara Parish also attended the Mass, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of worship and community.
Part Two: Talk on the Theme
The welcome address to the second part of the congress was given by Very. Rev. Fr. Ebenezer Kenneth Abban, PhD, the president of the Koforidua Diocesan Priests’ Association. It was moderated by Prof. Prince Boateng, Principal of Ada College of Education. In his remarks, Prof. Prince Boateng emphasised that the welfare of priests should be of paramount importance to the entire Church. He urged the faithful to prioritise the well-being of their priests, suggesting regular check-ins and support for their material needs.
The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Kobby Addison, Managing Director of Quality Insurance Company. Focusing on securing a dignified retirement for priests, he highlighted the importance of planning for this stage of life. Mr. Addison introduced the “Benefactors Pension Plan,” a proposed product designed to encourage priests and the faithful to make donations towards the retirement of priests. He explained that an App has been developed which could easily be downloaded on Appstore or Playstore to facilitate convenient donations and urged priests, particularly leaders of various arch/dioceses, to present this proposal to their bishops for approval and potential launch. An interactive session followed, allowing priests to respond and engage in a discussion on the proposal. After a productive exchange, the second session concluded.
Part Three: Socialisation
The third segment of the congress was a fun-filled afternoon of games and socialisation. This segment provided a wonderful opportunity for priests to bond and reconnect, reminiscing about fond memories and sharing laughter. Long-time classmates reunited, and colleagues exchanged ideas in a relaxed atmosphere. The games programme featured football, draft, and card games, promoting camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participants.
For more pictures of the Provincial Congress, visit our Facebook Page. Thank you.
