From Waste to Witness: Accra Archdiocese Announces “The City of God Cross” Procession

The Catholic Archdiocese of Accra has officially announced an upcoming Recycled Cross procession as part of a faith-based environmental initiative aimed at promoting sustainability and responsible stewardship of creation.

The announcement was made during a press conference held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the Holy Spirit Cathedral.

The initiative, dubbed “The City of God Cross,” is being organized by the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Office of the Archdiocese in collaboration with Missio Aachen. The event is themed: “From Waste to Witness: Ghana’s Recycled Cross for the Mission of Christ.”

Call to Address Environmental Challenges

Auxiliary Bishop of Accra, Most Rev. Anthony Narh Asare, in his address, highlighted the growing environmental challenges in Ghana, particularly the hazards associated with electronic waste at Agbogbloshie.

He noted that the increasing accumulation and improper disposal of e-waste pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. He emphasized that the Recycled Cross, constructed from discarded electronic materials, serves as a symbol of transformation, hope, and renewal, reflecting the Christian call to care for creation through concrete action.

In his address, he stated: “Today, the City of God stands as a symbol of faith in action, demonstrating how the Church continues to impact lives positively in one of Accra’s most challenging communities.”

Origins of the ‘City of God’ Mission

Providing historical context, Fr. Subash Chittilappilly explained that the City of God mission in Agbogbloshie was established in the early 2000s as a Catholic outreach initiative.

According to him, the mission, founded through the efforts of missionaries, notably Brother Arcadio Sicher, was created to respond to the difficult living and environmental conditions in the area, widely known for scrap dealing and waste recycling activities.

Over the years, the mission has evolved into a center for evangelization, education, and humanitarian services, offering shelter, basic education, and guidance to vulnerable populations, particularly children and youth.

Support and Collaboration

In his welcome address, the Director of JPIC, Very Rev. Fr. Matthias Yaw Kotoka Amuzu, expressed appreciation to the Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie CSSp, as well as all stakeholders, for their support in advancing the initiative.

Symbolism of the Recycled Cross

The City of God Cross, crafted by Idrissu Salifu, incorporates discarded mobile phones encased under glass panels. It stands as a powerful symbol of the Church’s commitment to environmental sustainability and aligns with the teachings of His Holiness Pope Francis I, particularly his encyclical Laudato Si’.

Planned Activities

Chairman of Protocol and Security, Lawyer Samson Lardy Anyenini, outlined the scheduled activities, which include a public procession of the City of God Cross on March 28, 2026.

The procession will commence from the City of God in Agbogbloshie (Old Fadama), pass through major streets in Accra, and conclude at the Holy Spirit Cathedral. This will be followed by a climax event on March 29, 2026, at the Cathedral.

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