A fundraising initiative spearheaded by philanthropist and community advocate Sir John Kwaku Agnagueh Klu has raised GH¢230,000 in support of the Sacristy Project of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cathedral, Donkorkrom, exceeding its target of GH¢150,000.
The fundraising ceremony, held at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Madina, brought together clergy, traditional leaders, professionals, business executives, and members of the Catholic community to support the completion of the cathedral’s Bishop’s Sacristy, Main Sacristy, and window fittings.
St. Francis Xavier Cathedral is the episcopal seat of the Catholic Diocese of Donkorkrom, established in June 2007, and the spiritual centre of Catholic life in the Afram Plains.
Delivering the keynote address, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Ohene underscored the Church’s role in promoting both spiritual and socio-economic development.
“The church as a faith community plays an integral role in socioeconomic development,” he said, adding that cathedrals serve as the spiritual headquarters of dioceses, uniting parishes and hosting major liturgical celebrations.
He noted that beyond their religious significance, cathedral buildings often contribute to tourism and community development.
Rev. Fr. Ohene commended Sir John Klu and his family for their commitment to the project.
“We salute Sir John Klu and family for the initiative they have taken and for bringing all of us together to support the completion of St. Francis Xavier Cathedral Project,” he stated.
The programme was chaired by Naa Professor Bruce Kofi Banoeng-Yakubo, a distinguished geologist, traditional ruler, and former Chief Director of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
In his closing remarks, the Chairperson encouraged Catholics and well-wishers to continue supporting the Church through donations towards infrastructure projects and other developmental initiatives.
The event attracted several prominent personalities who served as co-chairpersons, including Okumkom Nana Nyamfu VI, Nifahene Enyan-Abaasa, known in private life as Dr Afari Sam, General Manager in charge of Procurement at the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG); Mr. James Klu, former Deputy Chief Executive for Development at the Ghana Highway Authority; Mr Paul Koranteng, Manager of J and P Transcompact Ltd and African Union interpreter; Mr Simon Otchere, legal practitioner; and Mr Prince Banyerah, contractor and Catholic lay leader.
The successful fundraising effort marks another significant step towards the completion of the cathedral project. It reflects the strong support it continues to receive from the Catholic faithful and the wider community.
By Celestine Edem Gbologah//Newswatchgh.com
