St. Paul’s Catholic Seminary celebrates Benefactors’ Day with gratitude and renewed call to faithful priesthood

Annual Benefactors’ Day as part of its cherished tradition of appreciating individuals, families, and organizations who continue to support the formation of future priests of the Catholic Church On Sunday, 17th May 2026, St. Paul’s Catholic Seminary, Sowutuom–Accra, celebrated its.

The celebration brought together the Auxiliary Bishop of Accra, Most Rev. Anthony Narh Asare, benefactors and benefactresses, priests and religious sisters, formators, papal knights and dames, state officials, various church societies, friends and families of the seminary, seminarians, and lay supporters.

The event began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the seminary chapel, presided over by Most Rev. Anthony Narh Asare. During the Mass, special prayers were offered for all benefactors, both living and deceased, in recognition of their sacrifices and contributions toward priestly formation. The liturgy was beautifully animated by the seminary choir, whose sacred hymns created an atmosphere of reverence and thanksgiving.

In his welcome address, the Vice Rector, Very Rev. Fr. John Doe Dormah, warmly welcomed all present and expressed profound appreciation for their continuous prayers, sacrifices, and financial support, which continue to sustain the seminary’s mission of forming future priests. He also expressed gratitude to Most Rev. Anthony Narh Asare for honouring the invitation and gracing the occasion with his presence.

In his homily, Bishop Asare reflected on the Easter season and the example of the early disciples, who, though initially filled with fear and doubt, were transformed by their encounter with the risen Christ into courageous witnesses of the Gospel. He reminded the faithful that the early Christians were recognized not merely by name but by the authenticity of their lives and faith.

The Bishop emphasized the importance of genuine Christian living, cautioning against hypocrisy and divided faith. Referencing the visit of Pope Saint John Paul II to Benin, he called for sincere and unwavering commitment to Christ and the teachings of the Church.

He further stressed the importance of gratitude and prayer for benefactors who continue to support the Church’s mission. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Apostles and encouraged Christians to remain steadfast in faith despite modern societal challenges.

Addressing contemporary issues, Bishop Asare spoke strongly against moral confusion, environmental degradation, and the menace of illegal mining (galamsey). He noted that the Church has a responsibility to speak boldly on matters of truth, justice, morality, and human dignity, regardless of criticism or opposition. Reference was also made to the Church’s teaching on care for creation as highlighted in Laudato Si’.

The Bishop also touched on challenges facing education and formation, stressing the need to preserve Catholic values, identity, and discipline within Catholic educational institutions.

Addressing the seminarians directly, Bishop Asare expressed his affection and pride in them while urging them to remain focused on the true purpose of their formation. He warned against the dangers associated with excessive dependence on technology, social media, and artificial intelligence, noting that although modern technology offers many opportunities, it also presents serious spiritual risks.

He cautioned the seminarians not to allow digital culture to replace their personal relationship with God and commitment to prayer. He emphasized that priestly formation must be rooted in prayer, discipline, sacrifice, and sincere devotion to God.

In a striking remark, the Bishop warned seminarians against becoming “AI priests”, highly connected to the digital world yet spiritually disconnected from their vocation and mission. He concluded by encouraging all Christians to remain firm in faith, truth, and conviction, reminding them that the Resurrection of Christ calls believers to courageous and faithful living.

In his address, the Rector of the Seminary, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Joseph Okine-Quartey, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all benefactors for their generous support in cash, kind, and prayer. He noted that their contributions have significantly impacted the seminary’s growth through academic support, infrastructural development, and the overall welfare of seminarians.

He further acknowledged two special friends of the Seminary, David Oxley and Pete Helmuller from the Parish of St. John the Baptist, Plum City, for their continued generosity and support over the years.

In a special way, the Rector also recognized a benefactress who preferred to remain anonymous. Through her personal commitment and kindness, she single-handedly sponsored the renovation of 30 rooms, greatly improving living conditions within the seminary.

He additionally expressed appreciation to Christ the King Parish, whose recent appeal successfully raised seed money toward the roofing of the ongoing hall project.

Above all, Fr. Okine-Quartey thanked Bishop Asare for his presence, words of encouragement, and fatherly guidance, which brought inspiration and joy to the celebration. He also expressed gratitude to members of the Governing Council, benefactors, and the entire seminary community for their unwavering support and commitment.

Bringing his remarks to a close, the Rector commended the seminarians for their dedication and hard work toward the success of the celebration and appealed for continued support for the seminary’s mission.

Story by:
Thelma N. E. Impraim-Holm