Unity Must Be the Hallmark of Atiavi – Most Rev. Gabriel Edoe Kumordji, SVD
The Bishop of Keta-Akatsi, Most Rev. Gabriel Edoe Kumordji, SVD, has called for unity among the faithful of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and the entire Atiavi community as they celebrate a significant milestone, 100 years of faith and service. Delivering his homily during the grand Thanksgiving Mass on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Atiavi, he emphasized the importance of togetherness in continuing the legacy of the pioneers who built the church.
“We must be united. A hundred years ago, those before us laid the foundation of our faith, and today, we stand on their shoulders,” he stated. “Unity must be the hallmark of the whole church and the entire town of Atiavi.”
The centenary celebration, which took place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, brought together clergy, dignitaries, and parishioners from across the country to mark this historic occasion with joy and gratitude. St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church has long been a beacon of faith in the Keta-Akatsi Diocese, serving as a pillar of spiritual guidance, sacramental life, and charitable outreach within the community.
Bishop Kumordji acknowledged the unique significance of this centenary, describing it as a blessing for all who witnessed it. “Many would have wished to be here, but they are not. Blessings upon them, and blessings upon those of us who are alive to celebrate this moment. Let us prepare the way for the future so that those who will celebrate 200 years from now will also rejoice.”
Encouraging the congregation to turn to God in times of difficulty, he referenced Isaiah 6:8, urging parishioners to heed God’s call. “When the Lord asks, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ let us respond, ‘Here I am, send me.’ You don’t need to travel far to spread the Gospel, begin with your families, your neighbours, and all in Atiavi.”
Bishop Kumordji envisioned Atiavi as a model of peace and evangelization, where faith flourishes through unity and commitment to God’s call. “If we unite and make ourselves available for God’s work, Atiavi will be known worldwide as a peaceful place where the flower of evangelization has bloomed.”
The centenary celebration culminated in a grand Thanksgiving Mass on Sunday, where parishioners, clergy, and guests reflected on the church’s century-long journey and the profound impact it has had on generations of faithful. The event served as a call to renewed dedication to faith and service, setting the stage for St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church’s next century of worship and evangelization.
Source: DEPSOCOM Accra
By Theresa Kpordzo
