By Daniel Agbesi Latsu, GNA
Kadjebi (O/R), April 10, GNA – Residents of Jasikan and Teteman in the Oti Region have welcomed the ordination and installation of Catholic Bishop-elect, Monsignor Simon Kofi Appiah, describing it as a “new dawn of grace and glory” for the area.
The Episcopal Ordination, scheduled for Saturday, April 11, has generated excitement among the lay faithful and community members, who view the elevation of the native of Teteman as a significant spiritual milestone for the Jasikan Municipality and the nation at large.
Mr Jacintho Andrews Kwaku, Presiding Member (PM) of the Jasikan Municipal Assembly and National Dean of Presiding Members (PMs), Ghana, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on the sidelines of activities marking the event, said the ordination symbolised more than a ceremonial occasion.
“With hearts full of joy and gratitude, we celebrate the Episcopal Ordination and Installation of Rt. Rev. Monsignor Simon Kofi Appiah, a proud son of Teteman, whose elevation marks a divine moment not only for Teteman but for Jasikan Municipality, the Oti Region, and Ghana as a whole,” he stated.
He described the ordination as a spiritual awakening and a renewed call to peace, unity, and purposeful leadership, adding that it offered hope to the faithful and strength to communities seeking moral direction.
Mr Kwaku emphasised that the responsibility of the Bishop was a shared one, calling on all residents, irrespective of age or status, to support the Bishop-elect through prayers, good deeds, and a collective commitment to societal development.
“This sacred responsibility is not his alone. We all have a role to play – young, old, rich, poor, leaders and followers. Let us rise together to support him with our prayers, our actions, and our commitment to building a united, disciplined, and God-fearing society,” he said.
Mrs Stella Elizabeth Kuse, Second Vice Diocesan President of the Christian Mothers’ Association, in an interview with the GNA, described the Bishop-elect as God-sent. She noted that many people are familiar with his good works and prayed that Almighty God, together with the support of the lay faithful, Clergy, would guide him to serve satisfactorily.
Mrs Kuse, who is also a Senior Catechist at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Jasikan, further prayed for God’s support for the Bishop-elect, asking that he be compassionate toward humanity and carry out his duties with the fear of God.
Mrs Susan Christine Agbozo-Appiah, former President of the Christian Mothers’ Association at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, Teteman, in an engagement with the GNA, welcomed the ordination of Monsignor Simon Kofi Appiah and wished him well.
She also prayed that God would grant him the wisdom of King Solomon to lead the Jasikan Diocese faithfully and effectively.
Some residents who spoke to the GNA expressed optimism that the new Bishop’s leadership would bring unity, development, and renewed spiritual growth to the area.
They noted that his elevation had brought pride to Teteman and inspired the youth to aspire to leadership and service in both religious and civic life.
The residents also called on religious leaders to continue playing active roles in promoting peace, social cohesion, and moral integrity, particularly in the face of growing societal challenges.
The ordination is expected to attract clergy, dignitaries, and worshippers from across the country, marking a historic moment for the Catholic community in the Oti Region.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Linda Asante Agyei