GOOD SHEPHERD PARISH CELEBRATES 60TH ANNIVERSARY AND CONFIRMATION ON GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY
On Sunday, 26th April 2026, the Good Shepherd Parish Catholic Church, Tema Community 2, marked a historic milestone with the celebration of its 60th Anniversary. The occasion coincided with the Fourth Sunday of Easter, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, and the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. The celebration was held under the theme: “Sixty Years of Faith and Evangelism; Good Shepherd, Pilgrims of Hope.”
The event brought together parishioners, priests, religious brothers and sisters, guests, and well-wishers to thank God for six decades of growth, evangelization, and unwavering faith.
The celebration was graced by the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, CSSp. Upon arrival, he was warmly welcomed by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Matthew K. Mensah, and the Assistant Priest, Rev. Fr. Maxwell Kwame Azaglo, together with the entire parish community. The children presented a bouquet, while the Tema Regional Guards and Sentries Corps of the Knights and Ladies of Marshall, alongside the St. Don Bosco Catholic School Cadet Corps, and the 11JB and the Star of the Sea Junior Council and Court, mounted an impressive guard of honour. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the Archbishop.
In his welcome address, the Parish Pastoral Council Chairman, Mr. Patrick Tetteh Binyemi, expressed sincere appreciation to the Archbishop for his presence and extended a warm welcome to all priests, invited guests, and parishioners gathered for the celebration.
In his homily, the Archbishop offered a profound reflection on Christ as the Good Shepherd and the call to authentic Christian living. He began by recalling the joy of the Resurrection, emphasizing that the Easter message—“He is risen”—remains the foundation of Christian hope and faith.
Reflecting on the Gospel of John 10:1–10, he described Jesus as the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep personally and calls each one by name. He stressed that this call is personal and requires a committed response from every individual. According to him, being a Christian means recognizing this call and responding faithfully.
He cautioned against negative influences in society, such as immoral lifestyles, excessive alcohol consumption, pornography, and abusive language. He urged the faithful to live sober, disciplined, and kind-hearted lives, linking this to the Golden Rule, treating others as one would like to be treated.
Reflecting on the parish’s 60-year journey, the Archbishop acknowledged its rich spiritual heritage and its role in the growth of other parishes, including Corpus Christi and St. Bakhita. However, he reminded the congregation that true blessedness lies not only in history but in hearing and keeping the Word of God.
Touching on the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, he called on the faithful to pray earnestly for vocations to the priesthood, religious life, and marriage. He emphasized that every vocation begins with being a good Christian, noting that one cannot become a good priest or religious without first living a committed Christian life.
The Archbishop also delivered a detailed teaching on chastity, explaining that it is not limited to priests and religious but is a calling for all Christians, including married couples. He described chastity as a life rooted in holiness, self-discipline, and respect, stressing that moral uprightness is the responsibility of every Christian.
Addressing the Confirmation candidates, he urged them to remain steadfast in their faith and to rely on the guidance of their parents and godparents, who play a vital role in their spiritual growth and commitment.
The highlight of the Mass was the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation to sixty-seven (67) candidates, who were called to deepen their faith through the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
The celebration was also graced by several priests, including those who had previously served in the parish. As part of the anniversary activities, awards were presented to deserving individuals in recognition of their dedication and contributions to the growth and development of the parish.
In a joyful moment, the parish celebrated the birthday of the Archbishop, offering prayers and best wishes for his continued strength and leadership.
The celebration concluded with the cutting of the 60th anniversary cake, symbolizing unity, gratitude, and hope for the future of the parish.
Story by:
Thelma N.E. Impraim-Holm
DEPSOCOM Accra
