By Anthony Adongo Apubeo
Bolgatanga, July 3, GNA – The Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish in Bolgatanga has climaxed its year-long centenary celebration with a call for spiritual renewal, a change in mindset, and national unity as vital foundations for nurturing spiritual growth and national development.
Themed “Celebrating 100 Years of Walking Together as a Family of God,” the climax brought together parishioners, traditional leaders, Muslim clerics, government officials, among others, to
reflect on the Church’s 100-year legacy of faith and service in the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocese.
Speaking in a homily during the celebration of the Holy Mass, Most Reverend Alfred Agyenta, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Navrongo-Bolgatanga, described the centenary as both a spiritual milestone and an opportunity for reflection and recommitment.
“This centenary is a breakthrough and magnification of God’s love. We must not only celebrate the past but renew our minds and spirits for the future,” he said.
He called on Christians to embrace a spirit of selflessness, cultural renewal, and stronger family and community ties to advance the development of the country, emphasising that, “It is not enough to live in the past.
We must change the way we see things, renew our culture, and strengthen our family and Church bonds.”
Bishop Agyenta acknowledged that the Church’s journey from 1925 to 2025 had not been without challenges, citing moments of persecution and societal resistance, but noted that its growth had been sustained by faith, resilience, and grace.
“We must look to the future with confidence. The journey continues. It is a mission, and a mission means we are sent to go out and serve,” he added.
Sheikh Alhaji Umar Yussif, the Upper East Regional Chief Imam, in a message of solidarity, praised the Church for promoting peace, interfaith harmony, and development over the years, stressing that it had deepened the peace and cohesion among people in the region.
According to him, “The Holy Quran recognises Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary, and Christians are our sincere and beloved brothers. The Catholic Church has uplifted the marginalised and stood for justice, and we are truly grateful for your work and celebrate with you today.”
Mr Abanga George Akuune, the Chief of Dulugu and representative of the Bolgatanga Traditional Council, described the Church as a source of hope and unity during times of community strife.
He praised the role of the Catholic Church in the promotion of healthcare, education, and social justice in the region, adding that such initiatives had helped to shape the future of many people and contributed to the development of the area.
Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Upper East Regional Minister, in a goodwill message, congratulated the Parish for its contributions to national development over the past century, stressing that the achievement was a testament to its resilience, faith, and commitment to the service of God and humanity.
He acknowledged the Church’s investments in education, health, agriculture, and social welfare, describing it as “a dependable development partner,” and reiterated the government’s
commitment to working closely with the Church, particularly in conflict resolution efforts in the region.
He appealed for prayers for the President and national leadership to guide Ghana with wisdom and integrity, as well as for God’s intervention in the resolution of the longstanding Bawku conflict.
The Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish was established in February 1925 by the White Fathers (Missionaries of Africa) after first arriving in Navrongo in 1906 from Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso.
The Parish has since grown in territory and population, giving birth to seven other parishes.
GNA
Edited by Caesar Abagali/Christian Akorlie