Archbishop of Accra Declares “Pastoral State of Emergency” to Complete Key Projects
The Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, CSSp, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, has declared a “state of emergency” within the Archdiocese to progress the completion of three major projects in the Archdiocese.
The projects are the stalled Children’s Hospital at Adjen Kotoku, an Archdiocesan Grotto, and an Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre.
Speaking during the climax of the Maiden Rosary Congress at Christ the King Catholic Church on Saturday , October 18, Archbishop Kwofie emphasised the importance of these projects which will not only benefit the Catholic community but will also contribute to the development of the country.
He stated, “The Children’s Hospital, like our many Catholic institutions, will serve not only Catholics but the entire nation. It is a work of mercy and a beacon of hope for all God’s children. It is being built for humanity.”
According to Archbishop Kwofie, about 10 million cedis is needed to resume the stalled Children’s hospital project, noting that money exists in the country despite corrupt practices.
“And yet, paradoxically, we hear of staggering sums lost to corruption: 18 billion cedis unaccounted for at one instance, and about 38 million cedis allegedly misappropriated from the National Service Scheme. These grievous acts cry aloud to heaven for justice”, he said.
The Archbishop also added, “My dear people of God, when anyone tells you that there’s no money in this country, tell the person as was said to St. Paul by those who didn’t believe the resurrection, We will hear you about this matter another time… For indeed, there is money”, citing the lack of moral transparency in the country.
Archbishop Kwofie in his address tasked Marian devotees to lead efforts for the grotto, while appointed priests and lay faithful oversee the pastoral centre for hosting retreats and conferences, stating that, “once, at least, two of these three pillars are completed, we shall solemnly lift this state of emergency with gratitude to the Lord.”
He also appealed to Prof. Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice President of Ghana, who graced the occasion on behalf of the President, to assist the Archdiocese to complete at least two of the projects.
He said, “I make a heartfelt appeal to you on behalf of our women, children, and indeed all our people. Please help us bring these projects to completion—especially the Children’s Hospital and the Marian Grotto. And Mother Mary, whose intercession never fails, will always look upon you with maternal solicitude.”
By Veronica Sena Amenya
