The St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in the Catholic Diocese of Keta-Akatsi recently marked a historic milestone, celebrating its 100th anniversary on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The grand occasion brought together clergy, dignitaries, and parishioners from across the nation, all gathered in joyous festivity at the church’s premises in Atiavi, Volta Region, Ghana.
The centenary celebration was graced by Her Excellency Jane Naana Opoku-Agyeman, Vice President of Ghana, who represented the special guest of honour, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, President of Ghana. Also in attendance were Togbi Agbesi Awusu II, the Awadada of Anlo, alongside former and current members of parliament, bishops, priests, religious leaders, parishioners, and well-wishers from far and near.
In her address, Vice President Opoku-Agyeman lauded the immense contributions of the early missionaries who brought the Gospel to the Atiavi community and praised the parishioners for their dedication in sustaining the church’s growth over the decades. “When we inherit what is good, it is a blessing to make it better. When we inherit something bad, it is our responsibility to transform it, reset it, and ensure that all are worthy as children of God,” she stated.
Mr. Bernard Kumahor, chairman of the planning committee, expressed gratitude to all who have tirelessly worked towards the church’s growth. He used the platform to appeal to the Vice President, traditional leaders, and dignitaries for support in upgrading the only Senior High Technical School in Atiavi to boarding status. He also emphasized the need for assistance in completing a second-story building, a modern dining hall, an assembly hall, and an administration block, which he believes would significantly enhance the school’s infrastructure.
A major highlight of the event was the awards ceremony, where distinguished members who have played pivotal roles in the church’s advancement were honoured for their dedication and contributions. The recognition underscored the invaluable impact of committed individuals in the church’s century-long journey.
In his goodwill message, Most Rev. Edoe Kumordji, SVD, Bishop of the Keta-Akatsi Diocese, paid tribute to the faith and sacrifices of past and present parishioners, clergy, and church leaders. “For these 100 years, this parish has stood as a beacon of hope, a home of prayer, and a sanctuary of grace. We honour those who have gone before us, serving in various ways and laying the foundation for what we celebrate today,” he remarked.
Bishop Kumordji also highlighted the significance of the centenary celebration as a moment of reflection and renewal. “This milestone is not just about looking back with gratitude; it is a call to renewal and mission. As we move forward, we must strengthen our commitment to Christ and His Church, ensuring that our faith continues to flourish,” he added.
Under the theme, “Celebrating 100 Years of Worship and Evangelization: Renewing Our Relationship and Service to God and Humankind,” the centenary celebration was marked by a series of spiritual and commemorative activities. Among them was the blessing of the Shrine of St. Anthony and the Adoration Chapel by Bishop Kumordji. Additionally, Vice President, H.E Jane Naana Opoku-Agyeman officially unveiled the St. Anthony Shrine and the anniversary monument, further cementing the church’s legacy.
Rev. Fr. Ignatius Edem Kwaku Attipoe, Parish Priest of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, emphasized the deeper significance of the occasion. “As we reflect on the theme, Mother Church invites us to strive to be the best versions of ourselves in our worship and evangelization efforts. Worship is a fundamental act that defines our humanity, and this celebration calls us to renew our commitment to God and our service to humankind,” he noted.
Expressing gratitude to all benefactors and benefactresses, he acknowledged their generosity in providing the church with befitting places of worship, including the St. Anthony Shrine and the Adoration Chapel. “My prayer for the Atiavi community is that these structures will inspire greater spiritual growth among us, leading to holistic development—physically, psychologically, and morally,” he added.
St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Atiavi, a key part of the Keta-Akatsi Diocese, has stood as a bastion of faith for a century, offering spiritual guidance, sacraments, and acts of charity to the community.
The centenary celebration was crowned with a grand Thanksgiving Mass on Sunday, where parishioners, clergy, and guests reflected on the church’s remarkable journey and its enduring impact on the lives of the faithful. The event left a lasting impression, inspiring renewed dedication to faith and service as St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church embarks on its next century of worship and evangelization.
Source: DEPSOCOM, Accra
By: Theresa Kpordzo.
