The Accra Archdiocesan Catholic Laity Council, during its 2025 Seminar and pilgrimage, has called on its members to serve and include vulnerable people in their various communities with hope and support from the Jubilee Year.
The seminar, held at the Holy Spirit Cathedral, was themed “Jubilee Year: A Time to Proclaim Christ, Hope for the Church and Ghana.”
During the seminar, Mr. Kwadwo Ofori, from St. Michael Catholic Church, urged members of the laity council in his presentation to provide hope and a sense of belonging to vulnerable members of their communities.
According to him, activities like visitations and community outreaches will help foster inclusivity and provide hope to the marginalized in society.
He said, “Organize visits to prisons, hospitals, and shelters to share the message of hope and mercy…Partner with local organizations to reach vulnerable populations, such as the homeless, elderly, and those in poverty.”
In addition, he encouraged them to make activities in their parishes to be inclusive and have a diverse representation of culture.
“Ensure that Jubilee events are accessible to people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups… Incorporate diverse cultural practices and languages to make the Jubilee celebrations inclusive and meaningful”, he urged.
Mr. Ofori noted that these vulnerable people can also be assisted through spiritual activities such as offering prayer and reflection services specifically for the vulnerable, providing spiritual support and comfort, and also making the Sacrament of Reconciliation available to those who may not be able to access it.
He also encouraged laity council members to raise awareness campaigns to highlight the struggles and needs of vulnerable populations.
He noted, “Advocate for policies and initiatives that support the vulnerable and promote social justice. Examples such as child labour, forced child marriages, and the establishment of witch camps.”
In an address by Dr. John K. K. D. Mensah, Chairman of the Accra Archdiocesan Catholic Laity Council, he emphasized the importance of hope and renewal among the lay faithful, noting that it is a time to proclaim Christ as the hope for the Church and Ghana.
He said, “This theme, inspired by Pope Francis’s Jubilee Year 2025 Theme, focuses on proclaiming Christ as the hope for the church in Ghana. A year to proclaim Christ by manifesting Him in our thoughts, in our words, in our actions, and our omissions. In other words, our thoughts, words, actions, and omissions must point to Christ Jesus.”
Dr. Mensah also called upon the lay faithful to take action in their various communities, saying, “… we are called to renew our minds, guard your speech and seek God’s help through prayer”.
By: Veronica Sena Amenya//Newswatchgh.com
