By Comfort Sena Fetrie-Akagbor
Accra, Oct. 06, GNA – Catholics have been urged to emulate the humility, service and commitment to Christian values demonstrated by St Francis of Assisi and apply them in their relationships with others.
Reverend Father Friar Francis Pascal Affum, a Conventual Franciscan Priest at the St Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, Awoshie-Anyaa Parish, gave the advice during a mass to mark the parish’s celebration of the feast of St Francis of Assisi.
The celebration coincided with the 800th anniversary of the Transitus, or passing into eternal life, of St Francis, who died on October 3, 1226.
Rev Fr Affum said St Francis, who came from a wealthy family, rejected material wealth and social status and instead embraced humility, poverty and service to God and humanity.
He said the saint demonstrated that true honour did not come from worldly prestige, titles or wealth, but from serving God and others.
He added that while honour in a modern secular sense often means prestige or reputation, St Francis redefined honour through the Christian lens of humility, poverty and service.
Rev Fr Affum said St Francis lived his faith authentically by ensuring that his actions reflected the Gospel he preached.
He, therefore, urged Christians to practise their faith through their daily conduct and to demonstrate humility and kindness towards their neighbours rather than seeking recognition or social status.
The priest also said St Francis regarded creation as part of God’s family, making care for nature and respect for living creatures an important aspect of his spiritual legacy.
He urged Christians to protect the environment and treat all people with dignity and respect.
As part of the celebration, the parish administered the sacraments of baptism and First Communion to some parishioners.
St Francis of Assisi was an Italian friar and founder of the Franciscan religious orders who renounced a wealthy lifestyle and embraced a life of evangelical poverty, humility and service.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Benjamin Meensah
Reporter: Comfort Sena Fetrie-Akagbor, GNA
Email: [email protected]