The life of Rev. Msgr. Jonathan Thomas Ayikai Ankrah, Founder of the Catholic Organisation for Social and Religious Advancement (COSRA), has been described as a shining example of selfless service, humility and unwavering commitment to God and the formation of young people.
The tribute was echoed during a Thanksgiving Mass to celebrate his Golden Jubilee of Priestly Ordination at the Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Dansoman, on Saturday, July 18, 2026, where priests, family, friends and members of COSRA gathered to honour a man whose vision has shaped generations of Catholics over the past 56 years.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Casmir Gosu, Parish Priest of Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, painted a portrait of a priest whose greatest desire has never been recognition but faithful service.
He said Monsignor Ankrah’s life has always been centred on God’s mission, noting that every act of service was carried out with love, sincerity and sacrifice.
He also recalled that long before his priestly ordination, Msgr. Ankrah had already begun investing in young people by founding COSRA, a movement that has transformed thousands of lives over the past five decades.
Fr. Gosu observed that many priests passed through Monsignor Ankrah’s hands during their seminary formation, highlighting his significant role in nurturing future leaders of the Catholic Church.
He challenged the faithful to learn from Jesus Christ and from Monsignor Ankrah’s example by serving without seeking applause.
“Serve and leave the rest to God,” he reminded the congregation.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of COSRA, National President Tamara Amina Sulemana described the Founder as a leader who saw possibilities where others saw limitations.
She said Monsignor Ankrah did not merely establish an organisation but built a family rooted in faith, discipline, service and love.
She recounted how the Founder established COSRA to guide young people towards Christian living and voluntary service, adding that his vision has produced priests, consecrated men and women, and professionals serving in various sectors of society.
According to her, COSRA’s commitment to charitable works, blood donation, youth mentorship and community service continues to reflect the values instilled by its Founder.
A commemorative gift was presented to Monsignor Ankrah in appreciation of his outstanding contribution to the Church and the growth of COSRA.
Welcoming the congregation, National Vice President Vincent Musah said the gathering was an opportunity to thank God for Monsignor Ankrah’s life, honour the visionary who founded COSRA and renew members’ commitment to the organisation’s enduring motto, “Service to God and Mankind.”
In his response, the visibly grateful Founder thanked God for His abundant blessings and acknowledged the National leadership and the entire COSRA membership for preserving the vision he established decades ago.
He commended members for keeping the organisation vibrant and encouraged them to continue serving with dedication, humility and love.
The celebration ended with renewed commitment by COSRA members to continue the vision of their Founder by serving God and humanity with dedication and love.
By Celestine Edem Gbologah//Newswatch
