In line with the declaration of 2024 as the Year of Children by the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, fathers and father figures of Our Lady of Assumption (OLA) Catholic Church at New Achimota, Accra, have indicated their readiness to help and guide the children of the Parish to seek Jesus.
In a message to mark 2024 Father’s in the Parish on June 16 on the theme: “Fatherhood: A Sacred Call to Help Children to Seek Jesus” the fathers pledged to reflect on the profound responsibility fathers have in guiding their children to seek Jesus.
On November 24, 2023, the Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, CSSp, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra wrote a letter to Priests, Religious and the Lay Faithful in the Archdiocese informing and directing them to use 2024 to focus on children on the theme: “Helping Children to seek Christ: From Discovery to Discipleship.” John 12:21 – “We wish to see Jesus.”
“In consultation with the Archdiocesan Council of Priests, I wish to inform you that as from 2024, pastoral programmes and activities of all the Parishes, Rectorates, Outstations and Institutions of the Archdiocese shall be guided by a common theme,” the Archbishop said in his letter.
Archbishop Kwofie stated “The choice of the 2024 theme for the Archdiocese takes into consideration the urgent call to foster the growth of the Catholic Church which was recently made by the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference.”
In messages delivered on behalf of fathers in the Parish on Father’s Day in OLA Parish at the first Mass by Mr. Nicholas Yankey; second Mass by Mr. Patrick Banyonuu and children Mass by Mr. Kelly Igho Okundia, the fathers indicated that they were more than just providers and protectors of children but they are also spiritual leaders within the family.
The three Speakers urged fathers and men in general in OLA Parish to lead exemplary lives because “Our children are watching and learning from us every day.”
“By living a life guided by faith and demonstrating the love of Jesus in our actions, you set a powerful example for children to follow. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, generosity, or forgiveness, our behaviour/attitude/character can inspire our children to seek Jesus in their own lives,” they stated.
The idea of celebrating Father’s Day is first and foremost to provide an opportunity to honour and appreciate fathers and father figures, including Roman fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers and other male models for their important role in the family and society.
Fathers play a dynamic role in the upbringing of children, providing guidance, love and support, and this should be recognized and celebrated.
It also a time to reflect and raise awareness of issues affecting fathers, such as parental lives, child custody and work -life balance.
In a world filled with distractions and challenges, the role of fathers in nurturing the spiritual growth of their children is more critical than ever.
According to the speakers, “Today, we want to admonish fathers, father figures and potential fathers to embrace this responsibility and help their children seek Jesus,” noting that “As Fathers we have a unique opportunity to teach our children about the life and teachings of Jesus.”
They reminded fathers to take time to read the Bible together with their children, pray as a family, and engage in meaningful conversations about faith.
“We need to share our own experiences of encountering Jesus with our children and how he has made a difference in our lives. By nurturing a strong foundation of faith in our children, we empower them to develop a personal relationship with Jesus,” said the speakers.
Fathers were also reminded by the Speakers that “we have the power to create a culture of love and acceptance within our family,” and also “Embrace our children unconditionally, just as Jesus embraces each of us.”
“We need to show our children that they are valued and loved for who they are, regardless of their flaws or mistakes,” they added, indicating that “By creating a safe and nurturing environment, you lay the groundwork for your children to seek Jesus as their source of comfort and strength.”
The speakers challenged all fathers in OLA to embrace their role as spiritual leaders and help their children seek Jesus. “Our influence is reflective and far-reaching, shaping the lives of future generations,” they added.
“Let us commit ourselves to lead by example, teach and nurture faith, and create a culture of love and acceptance within our families. Together, we can guide our children on a journey of spiritual discovery and lead.”
As part of marking Father’s Day, the Men of OLA would undertake the tiling of the Basement where the Children have their Sunday Holy Mass in line with the declaration of 2024 as “Year for The Children” by the Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, the Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, CSSp.
It is the desire of Men in the Parish to ensure that Children would also have a dignified place of worship by the next year’s father’s Day 2025.
Damian Avevor
