The Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, has urged Ghanaians to begin the New Year with faith, peace, and trust in God, reminding the faithful not to be afraid of the uncertainties that lie ahead.
Archbishop Kwofie made the call during his homily at the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, celebrated on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Community Two, Tema. The occasion also marked the 59th World Day of Peace.
He expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and for granting the faithful the grace to enter the New Year, noting that crossing into 2026 is not a right but an act of God’s mercy. While acknowledging that the future remains uncertain, the Archbishop encouraged the faithful to remain hopeful and expect better things in the year ahead.
Touching on Christian leadership and evangelisation, Archbishop Kwofie cautioned against self-promotion among pastors. He criticized the growing trend of religious leaders advertising themselves instead of Christ, stressing that the focus of evangelisation should always be on Jesus and not on personal image or popularity.
According to him, if anyone deserves attention, it should be those who suffer or die for their faith, rather than religious leaders seeking publicity.
Reflecting on the challenges of life and faith, the Archbishop reminded the congregation that difficulties are inevitable, even for good people. Quoting James 1:2, he encouraged Christians to see trials as opportunities to grow in perseverance and faith.
He also highlighted the repeated biblical message, “Do not be afraid,” noting that fear often comes from uncertainty and the desire to control outcomes. He urged believers to place their trust in God rather than in worldly securities.
Linking the celebration to the World Day of Peace, Archbishop Kwofie emphasized that God calls His people to be peacemakers, recalling Jesus’ words: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.”
He referenced the priestly blessing in Numbers 6:24–26, describing peace as a gift that flows from God’s gracious and loving presence. True blessedness, he said, lies in working for peace in homes, communities, and the wider society.
The Archbishop further drew on the message of Pope Leo XIV for the 59th World Day of Peace, which describes peace as both a journey and a guiding principle for human choices. He noted that even in situations where peace seems impossible, there are always people who continue to seek and protect it.
He warned against the culture of fear and violence, questioning why some pastors move with heavy security while professing faith in God’s protection. He also cautioned against the tendency to “weaponize” thoughts, words, and actions, calling instead for a renewal of hearts and minds in the spirit of peace.
He concluded with a call for the faithful to entrust the New Year to Mary, Mother of God, and to walk into 2026 without fear, trusting in God’s promise of hope and a future, as expressed in Jeremiah 29:11.
By Celestine Edem Gbologah//Newswatchgh.com
