By Albert Oppong-Ansah
Accra, Jan. 2, GNA – Very Reverend Father Ebenezer Akesseh, Parish Priest of the Christ the King Catholic Church, has urged Ghanaians to allow peace to guide decisions at all levels, as harmony remained fundamental to sustainable national development.
He noted that divisions, intolerance and selfish interests often undermined social cohesion and weakened efforts to build a just, inclusive and sustainable society, and called for dialogue, forgiveness and mutual respect in the New Year.
Very Rev. Akesseh made the call during a sermon at the New Year Eucharistic celebration in Accra, where he said peace was not merely the absence of conflict but a conscious choice shaping conduct, relationships and leadership decisions.
The day was also marked by the Catholic Church as the World Day of Peace.
Very Rev. Akesseh said sustainability extended beyond environmental protection to include peaceful coexistence, responsible stewardship of resources and concern for future generations, stressing that development initiatives could not endure without social harmony.
He admonished the public to sow seeds of peace in homes and workplaces, explaining that cooperation, respect and understanding among family members and colleagues were essential for productivity, fairness, and long-term progress.
Drawing on Christian teachings, Very Rev. Akesseh cited Mary, the mother of Jesus, as a symbol of peace, humility and obedience, noting that her life reflected quiet strength and reconciliation, values that remained relevant in contemporary society.
He said just as Jesus preached love, forgiveness and peace in the face of hostility, Mary stood firmly for peace through her actions and trust in God’s will, urging believers to emulate those virtues in their daily interactions.
Very Rev. Akesseh cautioned against conflict, gossip and rivalry at work, encouraging workers to promote teamwork and tolerance, saying peace cultivated in workplaces could positively influence families, communities and the nation at large.
He described peace as a seed requiring patience and consistency to grow, but one that ultimately yielded harmony, trust and sustainable development, both spiritually and socially.
The New Year Mass brought together parishioners to offer prayers for national unity, good governance and divine guidance as the country begins the year.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey