ARCHBISHOP KWOFIE VISITED AND CONFIRMED FOURTEEN CANDIDATES AT ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI PARISH, NEWLAND–AFIENYA
On Sunday, 19 April 2026, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, paid a pastoral visit to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Newland–Afienya, where he presided over a solemn Eucharistic celebration.
The Archbishop was warmly received by Rev. Fr. Isaac Donkor, Priest-in-Charge of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Rectorate, Gbetsile; Rev. Fr. Thomas Ayemermang Prempeh, Assistant Priest; WO1 Francis Kwashie Kpamina, Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) Chairman; Mrs. Caroline Tsikata, Chairperson of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Newland–Afienya; Mr. Moses Tay, CPC Chairman of St. Patrick Catholic Church, New Mexico; as well as the entire congregation.
In his welcome address, WO1(RTD) Francis Kwashie Kpamina expressed profound gratitude to the Archbishop for his second pastoral visit to the community. He provided a brief history of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Rectorate, Gbetsile, and its outstations, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Newland–Afienya, and St. Patrick Catholic Church, New Mexico. He also thanked God for the steady growth of the Rectorate and highlighted several developmental projects undertaken over the years.
He further used the occasion to outline some pressing challenges facing the Rectorate, including inadequate funds to complete the Rectorate office complex, a lack of proper accommodation for priests, and the absence of an official vehicle to support and enhance pastoral work across the Rectorate and its outstations.
In his homily, the Archbishop reflected on the Resurrection of Christ, encouraging the faithful to embrace the joy and hope of the Easter season. He reminded the congregation that moments of despair can be transformed through the power of the Resurrection, urging all to proclaim with conviction: “Christ is risen; He is risen indeed, Alleluia.”
Drawing on the Gospel account of the Road to Emmaus, he explained how the disciples encountered the Risen Lord and recognized Him in the breaking of the bread, underscoring the central role of the Eucharist in Christian life.
The Archbishop also spoke on the themes of justice and mercy, noting that true justice is realized when we recognize the image of God in others and live in peace and solidarity. He concluded by encouraging the faithful to remain hopeful, steadfast in faith, and attentive to Christ, who continues to walk with His people.
A significant highlight of the celebration was the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation, during which fourteen (14) candidates were confirmed. Having undergone adequate catechetical preparation, they received the gifts of the Holy Spirit and were exhorted to boldly live out and share the Gospel in their daily lives. The newly confirmed were further encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith and actively participate in the life of the Church.
In honour of the Archbishop’s visit, the 30th District Commandery and District 4 Ladies Auxiliary of the Knights of St. John International (KSJI) organized a ceremonial parade. The parade was inspected by District Commander Captain Victus Dzidzorni, Major Eric D. Mensah, Respected Vib Beatrice Zanziri, and Rev. Fr. Isaac Donkor.
The pastoral visit concluded with prayers and blessings for the parish community, leaving the faithful spiritually uplifted and encouraged by the Archbishop’s presence and message.
Story by:
Thelma N. E. Impraim-Holm
Depsocom Accra
