The Catholic Bishop of Konongo-Mampong, the Most Rev. John Opoku-Agyemang, has called on members of the Knights of St. John International and Ladies’ Auxiliary to renew their Christian faith and live as true Pilgrims of Hope during this Jubilee Year of Hope.
He made this appeal when he addressed the 12th Biennial Supreme Subordinate Convention of the Order, held at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi.
The convention, which brought together Knights and Ladies from across the country, was held under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope: A Year of Discipleship: The Role of the Knights and Ladies of KSJI”
In his address, Bishop Opoku-Agyemang explained that the Jubilee Year is a special period of prayer, pilgrimage, and acts of mercy, intended to renew the faith and hope of Christians around the world.
He said the Church has celebrated Jubilee Years since 1300, and that this Jubilee Year of 2025, declared by Pope Francis, is meant to help Christians restore a spirit of hope and trust after the trials of recent years.
Quoting the Holy Father, he reminded the congregation that, “We must fan into flames the hope that has been given us and help everyone to gain new strength and certainty by looking to the future with an open spirit and a trusting heart.”
The bishop described a pilgrim as one who seeks something higher and deeper in life, not just a tourist who travels for curiosity. “Our pilgrimage must touch our hearts,” he said. “We are not called to be religious tourists but true pilgrims who journey with purpose and faith.”
He also encouraged members of the Order to see their service not only as an act of fraternity but as a journey of discipleship. “To be a disciple,” he said, “is to live like Jesus in character and action, and to help others do the same.”
Bishop Opoku-Agyemang further challenged the Knights and Ladies to defend their faith with courage and humility and to help others discover the love of God. “A Knight or Lady of St. John must not be afraid to speak about his or her faith. Always be ready to give an answer for the hope that you have, but do so with gentleness and respect,” he stated, referencing 1 Peter 3:15.
He also appealed to members to embrace forgiveness and unity within their ranks and families. “Just as we need forgiveness, we must also forgive others, especially those who have hurt us deeply,” he said.
Touching on national issues, the bishop urged all Christians to be concerned about the challenges facing the country such as corruption, insecurity, and moral decline. He called for mutual respect, trust, and honesty among leaders and members of the Order, encouraging them to listen to one another and work together for renewal.
In conclusion, Bishop Opoku-Agyemang reminded the Knights and Ladies that the goal of every pilgrim of hope is a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, who alone gives meaning to life. “May this Jubilee of Hope be a time of renewal, forgiveness, and deeper faith,” he said. “For Christian hope does not deceive or disappoint.”
By Celestine Edem Gbologah
