On January 12, 2025, the Most Rev. Francis Bomansaan M. Afr, Bishop of the Wa Diocese, proudly led the faithful of St. Andrew Cathedral in Wa to launch the Jubilee Year celebration at the Cathedral.
This significant occasion marked a moment of unity and commitment within the community.
After a moment of exaltation, the message from Pope Francis, themed “Pilgrims of Hope,” was powerfully conveyed by the Bishop.
The faithful confidently processed from the multi-purpose hall to the holy door of the Cathedral, where the Bishop opened it, allowing everyone to enter the church together.
Leading the procession were the cross and the Books of the Gospels, with the Cathedral choir elevating the atmosphere with joyful songs in celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
Upon reaching the holy door, the Bishop offered heartfelt prayers before solemnly opening it.
All other entrances to the Cathedral remained locked, ensuring that this Sacred door was the sole passage.
The faithful then passed through the holy door, united in their journey into the church.
During the introductory rites, the Bishop emphasised on the celebration of the Baptism of our Lord Jesus, noting that this feast serves as a reminder of our own baptisms and the responsibilities that come with them.
He encouraged everyone to pray for God’s renewal of their hearts and lives as they journey through this jubilee year of hope.
The Bishop confidently began his homily with a powerful story about a man infamous for being a serial killer and armed robber. Throughout his life, he ruthlessly ended many lives, and ultimately, he met his demise. In the afterlife, he was called to face the judgment throne.
As he approached, he was confronted by the revered figures of Abraham, David, Peter, and Luke. Upon reaching the threshold, a profound silence filled the air, and a commanding voice began to recount the details of his life. The man’s name was Tomiani, which means “hope” in his dialect.
However, as the voice continued, it became evident that there was not a single good deed recorded about Mr. Tomiani’s time on Earth.
Upon the conclusion of the voice, Abraham addressed the individual, stating, “My friend, individuals such as yourself are unable to enter the heavenly kingdom due to the actions you took during your lifetime; therefore, you must depart at once.”
The man replied, “Father Abraham, I do not wish to defend my actions; I can only appeal for mercy. You, my father Abraham, recognize the significance of seeking mercy; you have experienced it yourself and have benefitted from it.
It is important to remember that, despite having deceived others to protect your own life by declaring your wife Sarah to be your sister, through the grace and mercy of God, you ultimately became a blessing to all nations.”
Before Abraham could elaborate further, David interjected, affirming, “Abraham has spoken accurately. You committed grievous and reprehensible offenses during your earthly existence; therefore, you do not belong to the kingdom of God. This is a sacred threshold through which you cannot pass.”
In response, Tomiani turned to David, exclaiming, “O King David, your assessment is indeed correct. I am aware that I have lived wickedly, and yet I humbly seek forgiveness.
You undoubtedly comprehend the nature of forgiveness, having experienced it firsthand. Recall that you took Uriah’s wife and, to conceal your transgressions, arranged for Uriah’s death.
Consequently, I appeal for your mercy, just as you have known and experienced it.”
Then Peter came in before he concluded, unlike David, Peter said, my friend, you have shown no love to God, you have an acid tongue and quick temper, and you have wounded Jesus by your anger and actions.
Then Tomiani said, it was true. I should be silent because I have not led a good life the only way I have used the blessed name of Jesus is when I was angry and I swear by it. Simon Peter, I only ask for grace, the grace of God.
Tomiani continued, my friend Simon Peter, though you walked by Jesus side by side and listened to his words from his lips, you slept in the garden of Gethsemane when he needed you and you denied him three times on his night of greatest need.
Tomiani bowed his head and said, “What you have all said is true. My life has been recorded accurately; I am guilty of the charges against me.
However, I believe there is a place for me in this blessed kingdom. I know this door is open to me just as it is for everyone else. Abraham, David, and Peter, please plead my case, for you understand the weakness of humanity and the mercy of God.”
At that moment, the gates opened, and he was welcomed into the heavenly banquet.
The Wa Bishop emphasised that this jubilee year presents an opportunity for everyone to find hope in the gospel and the good news.
“It is a time to embrace hope in God’s unconditional love, His divine mercy, and His forgiveness,” he stated.
He told the faithful that Pope Francis invites us to walk through the wide open door of hope that welcomes all people without exception.
He said: “There is hope for you, regardless of your past or your current situation. All we need to do is look up to the Lord and listen to the voice that Jesus heard today.”
“You are my beloved daughter/son, and in you, I am well pleased,” he said.
According to the Wa Prelate, “as we celebrate the baptism of the Lord, we are reminded of our own baptism.”
He added : “Through baptism, we are born anew, transformed, and given new life. Each jubilee offers us the opportunity to embrace this renewal: a new way of thinking, a new perspective on ourselves, new ways of relating to our neighbours, and new ways of connecting with God.
As Christians, our faith is not meant to be kept to ourselves; it is meant to be shared, he opined.
By Sr. Naomi Obour Addai, HHCJ
