THANKSGIVING MASS HELD FOR ACCRA ARCHDIOCESAN CATHOLIC CHIEFS AND QUEEN MOTHERS

The Accra Archdiocesan Catholic Chiefs and Queen Mothers Association marked a significant milestone on February 15, 2026, with a thanksgiving Mass at Christ the King Catholic Church, Cantonments, Accra.

The liturgical celebration brought together traditional leaders from across the Archdiocese in a public expression of gratitude and renewed commitment to the mission of the Catholic Church. The Association seeks to promote unity, social development, justice, and the preservation of cultural values in line with Christian teaching.

In an interview, the interim president of the Association, Sir Ambassador Sylvester Parker Allotey, underscored the vital role chiefs and queen mothers play both in the Church and in Ghanaian society. He acknowledged that tensions have historically existed between certain chieftaincy practices and Christian doctrine, but stressed the need to harmonize the institution of chieftaincy with Gospel values.

“We must infuse Christian principles into the chieftaincy institution,” he said, adding that traditional authority remains a powerful force for moral guidance and community transformation. He also expressed appreciation to the Accra Archdiocesan Catholic Laity Council and the executives of the Chieftaincy Association for their support.

Nana Adwoa Asaa Benneh Beyeema I, Dwantoa Hemaa of Akyem Abuakwa, noted that the Association was established to guide traditional leadership in a manner that reflects authentic Christian values. One of its core objectives, she explained, is to promote culturally sound and socially acceptable practices that enhance the well-being of Ghanaians, particularly Christians, while discouraging customs inconsistent with the faith.

She expressed gratitude to the Archbishop of Accra, John Bonaventure Kwofie, for his support during the inauguration of the Association last year. She concluded by urging Catholic chiefs and queen mothers to remain steadfast in their commitment to Jesus Christ.

Adding her voice, Nana Ama Kwentsiwa I of Amonoonukuma Ekroful and Gyaasehemaa of the Anomabo Traditional Area highlighted the positive impact the Association has had on its members. She said regular retreats and spiritual formation activities have strengthened their Christian faith and empowered them to mentor and uplift young people within both the Church and their communities.

Nii Annag Ofri, the Papao Mantse, described the Association as an essential arm of the Catholic Church, designed to foster mutual support among traditional leaders in living out their baptismal calling. Encouraging broader participation, he remarked, “As a baptized Christian, you are priest, prophet, and king. Lead with integrity and uphold the values and policies of the nation.”

Dr. George Baah-Danquah, Coordinator of the Chieftaincy Association, reiterated that the group aims to help Catholic chiefs and queen mothers better understand and integrate their faith into their societal and ecclesial responsibilities. Emphasizing the need for growth, he stated, “It is time for the Association to move forward.”

He further revealed that Catholic chiefs from other regions who now reside in Accra have joined the Association, and he called on more traditional leaders to come on board to strengthen the Church’s evangelization mission.

The Thanksgiving Mass concluded with renewed calls for unity, faithful leadership, and a deeper witness to Christian values within Ghana’s traditional institutions.

Story by
Thelma N.E. Impraim-Holm
DEPSOCOM Accra