The Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, CSSP, has called on clergy and consecrated persons in the Archdiocese to adopt a greater commitment, unity, and self-reliance in the face of dwindling external financial support.
He appealed on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, while addressing priests, religious, and church workers during the Co-Workers Appreciation Day held at the Holy Spirit Cathedral at Adabraka.
Speaking candidly, Archbishop Kwofie expressed deep gratitude to the clergy and consecrated persons for their dedication and support, describing their contribution to his ministry as invaluable.
“You have done so much for me; I cannot say it all,” he said. “I thank every one of you for your love, which supports us every day.”
He revealed that a recent communication from the Dicastery for Evangelization had classified the Archdiocese of Accra as a “big archdiocese” in a “big city,” a designation that has affected its eligibility for external funding.
“This year, for instance, we sent four applications to Rome for funding, and we got nothing, absolutely nothing,” Archbishop Kwofie disclosed. “They say we are big, so we must tighten our belts because the money is here.”
According to him, the lack of external support should not discourage the clergy but rather motivate them to work harder and depend more on local resources.
“I am not saying this to discourage anybody, but to encourage you,” he stressed. “Let us tighten our belts, work harder than before, and move on.”
Touching on the Children’s Hospital Project of the Archdiocese, the Archbishop expressed concern over slow progress and inadequate awareness in some parishes.
“I thank the parishes that are contributing to the project,” he said, “but unfortunately, some priests and parishes have not even heard of it, and people are still asking whether the project has been finished.”
He urged priests to actively sensitize their parishioners, emphasizing that the project is not for a few individuals but for the entire Archdiocese.
“Let us not give the impression that the project is for the bishop or for a few people,” Archbishop Kwofie cautioned, adding, “No, it is for all of us.”
The Archbishop noted that questions from parishioners about the project’s completion reflect poorly on the Church and must be addressed through stronger pastoral engagement.
“The ball is in our court,” he said. “Let us work harder.”
He added that while Rome may perceive the Archdiocese as financially stable, the local reality tells a different story.
“Rome thinks we are alright, but we are not fine,” he stated, expressing the wish that the project could be completed within a year if collective effort is intensified.
Archbishop Kwofie concluded his address by encouraging unity and perseverance, assuring the clergy that shared commitment would see the Archdiocese overcome its challenges.
“Together, we will overcome,” he said, before wishing all present a Happy Christmas.
The Co-Workers Appreciation Day brought together bishops, priests, religious men and women, and pastoral workers to reflect on the year’s work and renew their commitment to the mission of the Church in Accra.
By: Vanessa Kekeli Yeboah//Newswatchgh.com
