The Catholic Diocese of Ho has celebrated the 10th Episcopal Anniversary of the Most Reverend Emmanuel Kofi Fianu, SVD, Bishop of Ho and Vice President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference.
The anniversary was on the theme: “A Decade of Shepherding God’s Flock: Looking into the Future as Pilgrims of Hope.”
The event, which drew clergy, religious leaders, government representatives, and the faithful from across the country, marked a decade of dedicated pastoral service, spiritual growth, and leadership under Bishop Fianu.
It was also a time of reflection on the challenges and hopes that lie ahead for the Church and the people of God.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. John Doe Dormah, Vice Rector of St. Paul’s Seminary in Sowutuom, Accra, reflected on the biblical image of the shepherd as one who leads, protects, and nourishes the flock with compassion and vigilance.
“The good shepherd does not only lead the flock through green pastures and still waters, but also goes after the lost sheep, carries it on his shoulders, and restores it to safety,” he said.
He explained that true spiritual leadership mirrors Christ’s example — serving, protecting, and sacrificing for the flock. “The shepherd’s role is not about control but care. He feeds, protects, and heals, even at personal cost,” he noted, citing Psalm 23 and John 10:11 to emphasize that every believer was called to embody compassion and unity within the Church.
Fr. Dormah also spoke candidly about contemporary challenges confronting Christians and Church leaders, including internal divisions, the pressures of modern life, and the rise of shallow religiosity, saying, “Today, many parade themselves as prayer warriors, shouting all over the media, but what we need are prayerful hearts and unity in faith.”
He urged the faithful to maintain spiritual balance amidst life’s demands, observing that “loneliness, loss, and existential struggles often test our faith — yet it is in these valleys that the Good Shepherd strengthens His flock.”
Reflecting on the growth of the Diocese over the past decade, Fr. Dormah said Bishop Fianu’s leadership had led to remarkable progress in pastoral, educational, and health initiatives.
“We have witnessed an expansion from parishes to schools, health facilities, and spiritual development programmes that touch lives daily,” he said.
The Diocese of Ho now boasts several new parishes, vibrant faith-based educational institutions, and expanded healthcare facilities including the Margaret Marquart Catholic Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and St. Francis Clinic.
“Good health is better than riches,” he stressed, adding that Catholic hospitals continue to serve the poor and marginalized with compassion.
Education has also seen significant improvement, with over 39 classroom blocks built in parishes across the Diocese, and Catholic institutions like Bishop Herman College, OLA Senior High School, and St. Mary’s Seminary among others flourishing under renewed leadership and spiritual guidance.
Mr Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, Presidential Envoy in charge of Interfaith and Ecumenical Affairs, represented the Chief of Staff, and commended Bishop Fianu for his exemplary leadership and contribution to peace and national cohesion.
“The aura around Bishop Fianu is that of peace, gentleness, and love. His influence extends beyond the pulpit to the national stage, particularly through his role at the National Peace Council,” he said.
He announced a donation of GH¢30,000 from the Chief of Staff towards the completion of the Ho Cathedral project and called on corporate bodies and individuals to support the initiative.
“The Cathedral is not just a building; it is a sanctuary, a heritage of faith, and a symbol of unity,” he said.
Mr Afriyie Ankrah also reaffirmed government’s recognition of the Church’s role in moral transformation and nation-building.
“President Mahama believes the country cannot progress without faith leaders who shape the conscience and integrity of the people,” he noted.
In his remarks, Most Rev Fianu, expressed profound gratitude to God, the clergy, the laity, and all who had supported his ministry journey over the past decade.
He described the anniversary as “a moment of thanksgiving and renewed commitment to the mission of Christ.”
“As we look to the next decade,” he said, “our call as shepherds and believers remains to lead with compassion, serve with humility, and build communities of hope. May the grace of God continue to strengthen the Diocese of Ho and bless our nation with peace and unity.”
The celebration ended with music, dance, and heartfelt prayers of thanksgiving as the faithful looked forward to a future of renewed faith, service, and hope under Bishop Fianu’s guidance.
GNA
