VOL. 83 NO. 5

GHANA’S NATIONAL CATHOLIC WEEKLY ESTD. IN 1938 SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, – SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 PRICE GH¢2.00 Cardinal Turkson Encourages Speaks Against Catholic News Service to Foster Stigmatisation Dialogue, Honest Communication of Lepers See page 3 See story on page 3 Pope Francis’ 29th World Day of the Sick Message Cardinal Turkson See back page BE MORE PATRIOTIC

News Desk Report

hanaians have been asked to be more patriotic in fighting Gcorruption which is seen as the IN FIGHTING greatest canker militating against the development of the country. “It is not enough to talk about corruption without taking concrete action against it.” The call was made by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Campbell, SVD, Parish Priest of Christ the King Parish, Accra during a CORRUPTION Thanksgiving Mass, on February 1, 2021, for Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, on his successful election as the Speaker of – Fr. Campbell exhorts Ghanaians the 8th Parliament of the 4th Republic of . According to Fr. Campbell, it was high time Ghanaians, be they politicians, Judges, Lawyers, Examiners, Security personnel, etc. came to the realisation that each and every one of them has a role to play in fighting bribery and corruption in all facets of society. He pointed out that it is wicked and evil for anyone to amass wealth at the expense of the common good. “What sense does it make to illegally accumulate property and have fat bank accounts when your neighbour is in great need of food, healthcare, and education? All Ghanaians have to rise above selfishness and greed for the sake of the development of Ghana”. Fr. Campbell added Rt. Hon. Bagbin presenting Fr. Campbell with Rt. Hon. Bagbin, his wife and other Members of Parliament. Continued on page 3 his address. 2 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 with you. We are going to ask CATHOLIC Holy See Wants “peace, reconciliation” God to bless this visit, to bless World News Cameroon and the Church of in Cameroon’s Troubled Regions Cameroon.” On his part, the President and the South West, plunged South Western of the National Episcopal into conflict in 2016 after a Anglophone Conference of Cameroon (NECC), Bishop Abraham he Holy See is closely protest by lawyers and regions of the Komè said “We hope that God following the conflict teachers turned violent. country. will take advantage of this visit i n C a m e r o o n ' s An armed separatists' U p o n T to do good things for our Anglophone regions and m o v e m e n t c l a i m i n g arrival in the country”. wants the warring parties to independence for the so- C e n t r a l Cardinal Parolin presided seek the path of dialogue for c a l l e d r e p u b l i c o f A f r i c a n *Pietro Cardinal Parolin with Cameroon's over Eucharistic celebration peace and reconciliation in A m b a z o n i a e m e r g e d n a t i o n , t h e President, Paul Biya during an audience at the Sunday, January 31 at St. the Central African nation, Italian-born following the government's Unity Palace on January 29, 2021. J o s e p h ' s C a t h e d r a l o f the Vatican's Secretary of Prelate who crackdown on protesters. Bamenda Archdiocese during State has said. especially in this present h a s b e e n Since then, the violent which, on behalf of the Holy Addressing journalists situation where there are many serving as Vatican's Secretary conflict has led to the Father, he bestowed on after an audience with other crises starting from the of State since October 2013 d i s p l a c e m e n t o f o v e r Archbishop Andrew Nkea Cameroon's President, Paul COVID-19 crisis,” the Vatican- and a Cardinal since February 679,000 people. More than Fuanya the pallium, a symbol Biya on January 29, Pietro based Cardinal told journalists. 2014, thanked those who 600,000 children have not of the latter's participation in Cardinal Parolin who was on a Peace, the 66-year-old turned up to receive him been able to go to school in Papal authority. Cardinal pointed out, “is the only saying, “I am very happy to be weeklong visit to Cameroon the two regions, and at least ACI Africa said their discussions focused 3,000 lives have been lost condition to grow and achieve on “all crises Cameroon is d u r i n g t h e f o u r - y e a r s u s t a i n a b l e d e v e l o p m e n t currently facing, especially skirmishes. everywhere.” the conflict in the North West During the January 29 “I assured the President of Pope Establishes World Day and South West regions.” p r e s s c o n f e r e n c e a t the willingness of the Catholic “I am here to show the Cameroon's Unity Palace, Church and the Bishops in these For Grandparents, Elderly attention and solidarity of the Cardinal Parolin expressed regions, to contribute to the Holy Father Pope Francis the desire of the Holy See to solution to this conflict,” he ollowing the Angelus on Sunday, January 31, Pope towards the Cameroonian see an end to the protracted further told journalists. Francis announced the institution of World Day for people especially in these c o n f l i c t i n t h e t w o The Vatican's Secretary of FGrandparents and the Elderly, which will take difficult moments,” Cardinal anglophone regions. State arrived in Cameroon on place each year on the fourth Sunday in July, close to the Parolin said. “What we seek is peace January 28 on his weeklong visit feast of Ss. Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. The Anglophone regions and reconciliation in these during which he visited the Recalling the upcoming feast of the Presentation of Jesus of Cameroon, the North West regions and in the country troubled North Western and in the Temple – when the elderly Simeon and Anna encountered the child Jesus and recognised Him as the Messiah – Pope Francis said, “the Holy Spirit even today stirs up thoughts and words of wisdom in the elderly.” The voice of Bishops in Benin Encourage “Open Dialogue” the elderly “is precious,” he said, “because it sings the praises of God and preserves the roots of the peoples.” Ahead of Presidential Election The elderly, he continued, “remind us that old age is a gift and that grandparents are the link between the different generations, to pass on to the young the experience of life.” the pluralism of presidential candidates. The Holy Father said he instituted the World Day of Three Beninese citizens Grandparents and the Elderly because “grandparents are often reached out to the country’s forgotten, and we forget this wealth of preserving roots and Constitutional Court asking for passing on” what the elderly have received. the abolition of the sponsorship He emphasised the importance of grandparents and system. On January 8, the Court declared that it does not have the grandchildren getting to know one another, because “as the competence to deal with the issue. prophet Joel says, grandparents seeing their grandchildren In December, Catholic dream,” while “young people, drawing strength from their Bishops in the country called on grandparents, will go forward and prophesy.” Members of the Episcopal Conference of Benin (CEB) the government to abolish the In a press release following the announcement, Cardinal electoral law because Members of P a r l i a m e n t p a s s e d “ n o n - Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family and head of the April 2021 The Bishops highlighted consensual interpretative laws … Life, noted that the establishment of the Day of Grandparents Presidential poll in “the growing differences between which led to the appointment of and the Elderly “is the first fruits of the Amoris Laetitia Family ABenin, Bishops in the the political players in the race, the many Mayors of the same Year, a gift to the whole Church that is destined to continue into c o u n t r y a r e c a l l i n g o n e l e c t o r a l c a l e n d a r a n d political persuasion, (it will the future.” politicians and the leadership of sponsorships” as some of the make) the fair and equitable He added, “The pastoral care of the elderly is a priority institutions organising the factors that might cause instability application of sponsorship election to engage in an open in Benin. complex.” that can no longer be postponed by any Christian community. dialogue for a peaceful, I n N o v e m b e r 2 0 1 9 , In the January 22 statement In the encyclical Fratelli tutti, the Holy Father reminds us that inclusive, democratic and members of Parliament in Benin issued at the end of their Ordinary no one is saved alone. With this in mind, we must treasure the transparent election. passed a new electoral law that Plenary Session for the pastoral spiritual and human wealth that has been handed down from In a statement, members of requires aspiring presidential year 2020-2021, the Bishops generation to generation.” the Episcopal Conference of candidates and their running mates insist on the need for peace B e n i n ( C E B ) “ s t r o n g l y (vice-president) to have the saying, “At stake is the image of The statement from the Dicastery notes that Pope Francis recommended that all political sponsorship of at least 10 percent our country on the international is expected to celebrate the first World Day by presiding at parties and institutions involved of the mayors or their deputies s c e n e a n d a b o v e a l l t h e Mass on the evening of Sunday, July 25, in St. Peter’s, subject in the organisation of the said before vying for the political seats. preservation of social peace to health measures in place at the time. Closer to the Day, the elections engage in open dialogue However, the Beninese without which the development Dicastery “will announce further initiatives that will mark the in view of a peaceful, truly parliament is made up of deputies efforts that have been started inclusive, democratic and who are from the President’s would be compromised.” event.” transparent presidential election.” political party, which jeopardises ACI Africa Vatican News Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD 3 Explaining that many Pope Encourages Cardinal Turkson patients with leprosy experience social exclusion, depression, and loss of income, Cardinal Catholic News Service Speaks Against Turkson said that “promoting the inclusion of all persons in Stigmatisation of Lepers society and assuring integration to Foster Dialogue, in the community remain priorities.” eople with leprosy suffer Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, He quoted Pope Francis, Honest Communication n o t o n l y f r o m t h e Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, w h o w r o t e i n h i s r e c e n t ope Francis conversed informally with journalists from physical disease but also Sri Lanka and Brazil. encyclical Fratelli tutti that P Catholic News Service (CNS), during an audience marking from harmful social stigmas Though Hansen’s disease “every human being has the right which can lead to mental is now known to not be as to live with dignity and to Pthe one hundredth anniversary of the news agency's illness, Peter Cardinal Appiah contagious as once thought, it d e v e l o p i n t e g r a l l y ; t h i s establishment by the Bishops of the United States. Turkson said on January 31. still has a strong social stigma fundamental right cannot be In prepared remarks, which were not delivered viva voce but In a message for World attached to it. denied by any country. People distributed to those present, Pope Francis said, “Over these past Leprosy Day, the Cardinal Cardinal Turkson said, have this right even if they are hundred years, Catholic News Service has provided an invaluable encouraged people to include “multi-drug therapy has proven unproductive, or were born with contribution to the English-speaking world through its coverage of the those sick with leprosy, also successful and effective in curing or developed limitations.” Church's mission proclaiming the Gospel and witnessing to the love of known as Hansen’s disease, in The Cardinal ended the leprosy and has afforded much God revealed in Jesus Christ.” t h e i r c o m m u n i t i e s a n d hope. Health care, in addition to message by offering his respect relationships. treating the physical ailments of and gratitude to those who Pope Francis noted that “in a world when news can be easily “Not everyone will have the person, must also consider dedicate themselves to healing manipulated and misinformation spread,” CNS strives to live up to their the skills or expertise to cure the social and psychological people with leprosy. motto by “making the truth known in a way that is… 'fair, faithful, and Hansen’s disease physically, but dimensions.” “They show us, in very informed'.” everyone is capable of promoting “ T h e h e a l t h c a r e practical ways, that leprosy is He encouraged CNS “to continue fostering dialogue and honest that culture of encounter which community in particular, and curable, that human encounter communication between individuals and communities,” saying that in brings about healing and the society as a whole, offer a can eliminate stigma, and that today's world “we need media that can help people, especially the mental well-being of those tremendous service to the mental well-being is an essential young, to distinguish good from evil, to develop sound judgments based affected by this distressing common good when they help part of integral health,” he said. on a clear and unbiased presentation of the facts, and to appreciate the illness,” he said. facilitate this process of personal “ M a y t h e p o w e r f u l Cardinal Turkson, Prefect integration for those who suffer intercession of Mary, health of importance of working for justice, social concord and respect for our of the Vatican’s Dicastery for from leprosy and their families,” the sick, lead us all more common home.” Promoting Integral Human the Cardinal wrote. completely towards the healing The Holy Father concluded his remarks, with the prayer that “the Development, said that a lack of French philanthropist touch of Jesus Christ.” spirit of communion with the Bishop of Rome, which has always been a participation in society can have Raoul Follereau established CNA hallmark of Catholic News Service,” might “continue to guide your a “profoundly negative impact World Leprosy Day in 1954. He efforts to serve the truth with humility and responsibility.” on self-esteem and a person’s chose January 30, the date of Vatican News outlook on life, ultimately Mahatma Gandhi’s death, as the leaving the person vulnerable to day for the event in honour of the mental illness.” Indian leader who reached out to This can be true especially leprosy sufferers. for people with leprosy and their Pointing to the story of families, he said. Jesus Christ’s healing of the Hansen’s disease is very lepers in the Gospel of St. Luke, rare today and, with early Cardinal Turkson noted that diagnosis, it can be treated and “when Christ brings healing to cured. the man with leprosy in the According to the Centres Gospel, he applies the salve of f o r D i s e a s e C o n t r o l a n d human dignity in addition to the Prevention (CDC), around two physical remedy.” million people worldwide are “It becomes an event that disabled due to Hansen’s disease. touches the entire person and the The countries where the disease effects are far reaching,” he is most widespread are Tanzania, continued. “When the Church N i g e r i a , M o z a m b i q u e , speaks of God’s generous offer M a d a g a s c a r , E t h i o p i a , of salvation, that gift is described Pope Francis with the delegation from Catholic News Service. Democratic Republic of Congo, as both universal and integral.”

He appealed for “the continuous ‘Be More Patriotic In Fighting Corruption’ intercession of our Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and you Continued from front page “Ghana has entered another face of c o n t e x t o f n o v e l t y a n d t h e gathered here, I need your prayers and that it is more rewarding in sharing its democratic development and this unchartered political path in which unalloyed support”. with the needy than being greedy. calls for direction, structure, this country finds itself.” In response to a request for In an address after the Mass, Rt. s u b s t a n c e a n d p r o g r e s s i n Rt. Hon. Bagbin noted that the support by Fr. Campbell for the Hon. Bagbin, recognised God's Parliament” as he emphasised that, 8th Parliament will come under Mother Teresa Soup Kitchen of the favour in the events that led to his these could be achieved through scrutiny this time round more than it Parish, the Speaker and his family election and quoted the popular “consensus-building” in Parliament. has ever been in Ghana's history and donated Gh¢50,000. Christian saying that: “he who kneels According to him, Leadership “I feel a huge challenge on my The Mass was attended by the before God can stand before any of the country, political, spiritual, shoulders” but he appealled to all to First Deputy Speaker and MP for man”, adding that “my election was traditional, and civil society, should pray for him and the entire Bekwai, Joseph Osei-Owusu; 2nd indeed a miracle.” continue to play a pivotal role Parliament daily. Deputy Speaker and MP for Fomena, He called for a new direction for towards sustainable socio-economic “In my Christian conviction, Andrew Asiamah Amoako, former National Democratic Congress the country to attain political and development, peace and stability in when the Lord God elevates you, it (NDC) MPs, and current MPs. The economic freedom for all, as the country. He added that “I am comes with new and even greater humbled to be part of the leadership responsibility. The task thrust on my NDC 2020 Vice-Presidential enshrined in the 1992 Constitution of Candidate, Professor Jane Naana Ghana in line with the principles of at this crucial time of our nation's shoulders is, to say the least arduous. history. Even more humbled by the It is unusual and unprecedented in the Opoku Agyemang, represented state policy. former President John Dramani confidence reposed in me, given the annals of Ghana's history.” Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, said, Mahama. 4 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 Directives from the Archbishop of Accra for the 2021 EDITORIAL World Day of the Sick Celebration

Highway Robberies Are Detestable, n view of the escalating numbers of infections and But Preventable Acts Ithe new variant of the COVID-19, the Metropolitan ncessant highway attacks on traders and travelers by armed robbers are very Archbishop of Accra, Most Idisturbing, and becoming one too many. R e v. J o h n B o n a v e n t u re Very recently, traders travelling to Burkina Faso from Kumasi to purchase Kwofie, CSSp., has directed tomatoes were brutally attacked by armed robbers, who even killed a young truck driver. They viciously robbed them of their monies, inflicting Priests, Religious and the lay gunshot wounds on many, hapless trading women. faithful of the Archdiocese to Then again, armed robbers recently unloaded their guns, and killed a policeman observe this year's World Day escorting a bullion on the Adansi Fomena road, in the Ashanti Region, and of the Sick which is marked reportedly made away with some GH¢500,000, as well as an AK 47 assault Archbishop Kwofie each year on February 11 as rifle. The murder last year of the former Mfantsiman Member of of Accra follows: Parliament was also a suspected highway robbery case. All of these incidents have a long-term effect on our economy, as they discourage A. The Holy Father's message on World Day of the Sick is to be both local and foreign entrepreneurs from travelling long distance to and read by all Priests and Religious so we become more resolute to care for from countries by road to engage in commerce for fear of losing their investments or even their lives. the sick and one another. Yet, the nature of modern commerce generally, and international trade in B. On 11th February, all Holy Masses are to be celebrated for the particular, is such that movement by traders within a country and across sick and caregivers with special emphasis also on COVID-19 and all nations is a must. The corollary is that nations invest in resources, both frontline workers. human and equipment, such as highway police patrols, highway hidden C. Parishes and Churches should look out for the sick and cameras and disciplined, skilled road operators and drivers. However, in Ghana our priorities with regard to highway safety and security distribute some relief items to them. This should however, be done appear to be taken for granted. Vehicle operators, particularly those under strict COVID-19 protocols. driving long-distance coaches and cargoes, are permitted to travel in the D. Since there is the likelihood to get a good number of people night at will, and on highways often denied of night police patrols. And attending Holy Mass on Sunday, 14th February, 2021, the Priest should where police posts exist, they can easily be counted on our fingers, and pray for all the sick and say a special prayer for all caregivers and health worse of all are at permanent locations known to armed robbers. professionals. This could be done by inviting the afore-mentioned to Targeting women traders for armed attacks is a phenomenon that should not be lost on policy makers and our law enforcement agencies, in particular. stand at where they sit for the prayers, so they do not move forward to Fighting modern highway armed robberies requires some sophistication. thwart the COYID-19 protocols. The methods of yester years no longer will win the fight on highway E. There should be a brief talk to educate church members on the insecurity. Elsewhere, the country's police management will have issued new variant of the COVID-19 pandemic. re-assuring short- and long-term measures designed to face off highway For the full text of the message, visit the Accra Archdiocesan armed robberies. Their silence on the phenomenon of highway robbery is disturbing. website: accracatholic.org To an extent, the increased highway robberies in Ghana can be attributed to the nature of our highways. The absence of a dual carriage road network between regions slows the pace of driving. It also provides fertile room for robbers to launch attacks on single lane roads. The Catholic Standard calls on the government as a matter of urgency to consider a policy of dualizing Ghana Decides inter-regional highways, particularly those linking leading cities to curtail Subscribe to the the activities of these bandits. Dual-carriage roads will also minimise the rate of road accidents. onElectr Mondayonic Version Furthermore, we advise transport companies to henceforth make the security of The Catholic Standard and safety of their employees and clients a priority. At least, one armed security officer or a sharp shooter can be placed on board either of a Kindly send us your email address and/or WhatsApp passenger vehicle, preferably a group of vehicles in a convoy. number indicating which medium you prefer to receive it. You Vehicle operators themselves, particularly night drivers, will need re-education may subscribe to it at any of the following rates: on highway security. There have been instances when robbers, disguised as a) GH¢ 10.00 monthly passengers, request drivers to stop for them at locations where armed robbers are laying in ambush to spring attacks on passengers. b) GH¢ 30. 00 Every quarter (3months) For now, this Paper suggests random and regular highway police surveillance, c) GH¢ 100.00 for 12months particularly on hotspots known to the police. Police visibility at night and Payment should be made through any of the under-listed on our highways will go a long way to scare prospective armed robbers, modes: and also give some reassurance to our women traders who risk their lives in transporting food and goods nationwide. We dare say that if our motor Bank: ADB traffic police divert half of the energy dispensed in checking motor A/c Name: Standard Newspapers and insurance and roadworthy papers rather into passenger security and Magazines safety, precious lives may be saved. Branch: Gulf House On the part of passengers, particularly traders, they need to be reminded that mobile money transfer has made the keeping of huge sums of monies on A/c No:1081010003442601 them outmoded. Electronic banking and mobile money transfers are now or the safest ways to have cash on hand. Mobile Money No: 0553921791 It may be late to safe lost lives, but not too late to do something about lives not lost yet. Name: Standard Newspapers and Magazines Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD 5 The Pilgrims DO WE EVEN VALUE THE WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS *Dr. Opoku Prempeh THAT WE SO CRY ABOUT? Notes have stocks that can only be sufficient we now vexed that we cannot for a proportion of their citizenry. All congregate to engage in meaningless By Kasise Ricky Peprah this against the backdrop that if we all revelry and gossiping? are not vaccinated, no one anywhere is Are we not the same people who Dear St. Jude, safe. The imperative of equitable behave as though there is no afterlife distribution is this time not a function of and so are busy living the life here on ur New Year has gotten off morality but that of science. Yet we earth, so why are we bothering to to a rather traumatizing persist in our pitiable misconduct. gather for funerals which are Ostart. We have barely St. Jude, this pandemic has also essentially an occasion to pay last managed to thank you for your betrayed our hypocrisy and why do I say respects and pray for the entry into intercession for our spared lives and so. Among the many steps taken by heaven of the deceased? are already counting deaths in the many governments the world over, are Why do we even bother to go pay hundreds, as a country. restrictions on large gatherings, last respects when we never cared a Every day is greeted with many especially indoors and everywhere The Columnist hoot about the person when they were cases of people who have succumbed humans are up in arms, well not literally alive? to the COVID-19 virus. The world over but all of us are grumbling about said COVID-skepticism has however been Why do we concern ourselves this virus is setting new records, in restrictions. promptly discarded as the numbers rise with marriage even, when we no more hospitalization and in fatalities. No Last Sunday, our president was everyday everywhere, of COVID-19 st deem it more than a status symbol corner of the earth has been spared, 1 , compelled to outline certain restrictions positive cases. I must pause here nd undertaken for the purpose of popular 2 or third world, all in the grips of this intended to curtail the spread of the though, and tackle the matter that is applause and not the Sacrament it is, invisible adversary. virus. Admittedly the measures can be most dear to my heart but you will have intended for procreation and the St. Jude, I have written to you said to be rather late in the day but to wait a tad longer. nurturing of the young in the ways of about this already and would have helpful nonetheless. Furthermore, the Among the President's measures is the Lord? wished I did not have to repeat it but measures were predicated on a a restriction on weddings and funerals, St. Jude, we ourselves have alas the COVID-19 virus is not deliberate misreading, it is alleged, of because they have the strong potential corrupted the basis for weddings and relenting and neither will I in seeking the factors that led to the resurgence of of bringing people into indiscriminate squandered the value of life, so we your intercession for the world to get a the virus, which virus we are told, has p r o x i m i t y a n d t h u s l e a d t o have neither reason nor right to hold on it. Then again, it appears, we also mutated into another more easily transmission. The announcement was begrudge anyone for placing are told, to be in our own hands. We are transmitted variant. g r e e t e d w i t h g r u m b l i n g a n d restrictions on them, baseless and masters of our own predicament in this St. Jude, in the days preceding the disapproval, many people citing the worthless as we have made them particular affair. It has been proved that announcement, official sources strove imperative of weddings and funerals, become. if we all individually take our protocols to lay the blame for the resurgence at the two rites of passage that should not be For the record though, St. Jude, seriously, the virus will be put in check. feet of Christmas merry-making and hindered for any reason whatsoever. official sources have come out to Thankfully, various vaccines New Year festivities. With the What hypocrisy! What convenient clarify that there is no restriction on have been developed and many screaming exclusion of the election noise! What double standards! weddings and marriages per se, only countries are already vaccinating their campaign activities. This was decidedly And why do I say so? limits placed on the number of people citizens. The process is painfully slow unconvincing and so ordinary folk now St. Jude, are we not the same at such occasions. Left to me, I may not b u t a t l e a s t i t o f f e r s h o p e . tend to blame the political class for what people who have abandoned family and even have bothered with the Unfortunately, however, human beings they describe as an 'avoidable spike in only now bother with only ourselves, so explanation. have not stopped being themselves, to the number of infected people'. why do we cry about relatives that have Pray for us, St. Jude, so we take the effect that the distribution of the Some critics even posit that the passed away? the protocols seriously, especially the vaccine is suffering the usual abandon with which the electioneering Are we not the same people who young ones among us who tend to be discrimination that has characterised campaigns were carried out had the only go to weddings to make incredulous and reckless, so that we the allocation of resources among unfortunate effect of sending out wrong comparisons with the last one we survive this scourge and when we do mankind. The rich have stocked in signals that the virus was either on the attended, sparing no thought for the survive, to actively reconsider what is excess of their needs and the needy decline or was in fact a hoax. This sanctity of the Sacrament, so why are proper and important for us humans.

Sr. Nanewortor Marks Silver Jubilee Advertise in The Catholic Standard ev. Sr. Philomena area to aspire to the Religious for better results Nanewortor, SSL, Life. Headmistress of A reception after the Call: 0302 424725 or R Mass was chaired by Mr. the St. Paul's Senior High Modestus Ahiable, a former Email: [email protected] School at Mamapong, th Member of Parliament for recently celebrated her 25 Ketu North. a n n i v e r s a r y i n t h e It was attended by Religious Life with a relatives, friends and some Commercial Printing Thanksgiving Mass at the members of the Sisters of St. Contact the Standard CALL: Ss. Peter and Paul Church *Sr. Nanewortor Louis Congregation (SSL) f r o m t h e K o n o n g o - Newspapers and Magazines at Dzodze in the Keta- 030-242-4725 Mampong Diocese. Limited for quality printing Akatsi Diocese. anniversary and commended Sr. Nanewortor took her of R e v. M s g r. P e t e r her for her selfless service to First Vows in Kumasi on your books, calendars, Email: Huletey, Parish Priest of the the Church and society. November 18, 1995. brochures, invitation cards, [email protected] / Church congratulated Sr. He was hopeful her life From Raphael Kwami leaflets, invoices, office [email protected] N a n e w o r t o r o n h e r would inspire the youth in the Ahiabenu files, etc. 6 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 CAN CHRISTIANITY DIALOGUE WITH ARE MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION? (5) NOT FIRST AND FOREMOST By Most Rev. Peter K. Sarpong, religious and the profane. We no longer see Archbishop Emeritus of Kumasi human beings and phenomena in holistic LAW MAKERS? terms, as undivided unity. Rev. Msgr. Prof. Stephen Ntim We speak of and deal piecemeal with, ATTRIBUTE economic problems, political problems, ince the last December 2020 The confusion created by so-called moral problems, instead of thinking in terms parliamentary and Presidential modern languages like English, therefore, is a of human problems. In the analysis, every Selections, this writer, out of curiosity, linguistic problem which is totally not of the problem is a human issue not amenable to has been following some of the interviews on FM radio stations of some political African's making. dissection. This is a theme that African It is the English language that calls stalwarts who lost their parliamentary Traditional Religion could enrich universal seats. Essentially, their stories are about some creatures lesser gods or minor gods or Christianity with. divinities. A thing like that is unheard of in the same, regardless of which of the two SYMBOLISM political divides that they come from: a) African tradition religion. The idea of the Following on the idea of unity in uniqueness of God is so central to perceived communication gap between phenomena, is a very important concept of MPs and their constituencies; b) perceived Christianity that one would have thought that symbolism. Symbols are indispensable in any the African's linguistic sensitivity to it should lack of infrastructural development in Msgr. Ntim religion. Jesus Christ himself can be said to be their constituencies and c) in the case of have been adopted long ago and made use of the Sacrament of God. He symbolized the one particular party, the imposition of to explain the nature and attributes of the Father's love for humanity but he also some MPs on the electorate. comes to the allocation of these resources for Christian God. Apart from the names given to symbolized human being's response to that As I listened to some of these development at the local level. Indeed, it is the the Supreme Being of the African which he immense love of the Father. interviews, I could not, but have sympathies executive arm of government, represented at shares with none other, there are certain Some clever scholar has shrewdly for many of these MPs who lost their seats as the local level by the DMMCEs which attributes which all African peoples assign to dominates the development agenda and not described Jesus as the first audiovisual aid! they narrated their side of the story. Based on this Supreme Being as his sole prerogative. I the legislature. Similarly, it is the executive The point is that coming in contact with Deity the narration of their stories, this writer, cannot think of any other being in the world branch which also dominates international is not the normal course of things. Deity has to through the medium of The Catholic being called Toturobonsu (the fullest of Standard is of the considered view, that we cooperation. It is within this context that this be reached by means of a kind of bridge completion), Tetekwaframoa (Eternal), still have a lot of political education to make Writer is of the view that we have to question between humanity and Deity. The bridge may D a a s e ] n s a ( T h e G r a c i o u s O n e ) , across the length and breadth of the country, whether or not the current political processes Birekyirehunuade (Omniscience), and so on, be words, gesticulations, objects, postures, especially by the National Commission on are fair enough to really produce parliaments by my people, the Asante. What is more, these signs, etc. These are not the reality itself. They Civic Education (NCCE). Indeed, MPs have a and parliamentarians that can really represent names and attributes speak more about what are symbols which give us an idea of the lot of duties, ranging from consulting their the interests of their constituents in all their reality. They are the connecting links between constituents, being the voice of their ramifications. Given this, the question is: God actually does for us rather than what God what do we really mean by a democratic is. They bring God into our life. God is of the seen and the unseen. Every religion has constituents, giving attention to bills placed them. Indeed, it would appear that without before them in parliament on time, MPs parliament? Given the constraints explained practical importance to the African. above, on what grounds can our youth in the This is where religion touches the symbols, religion would be impossible. The executive oversight functions, etc. On top of all these, is the law making function of constituencies blame our MPs as 'not African. God is the “Leaf that covers the Members of Parliament in accordance with delivering' 'has not undertaken any whole world “, God is the “Fountain of water Article 93, Clause (2) of the 1992 infrastructural development since we voted that never dries up “; God is the “Source of that states that the for him/her into parliament.' full satisfaction” and so on. This is concrete legislative power of Ghana shall be vested in Sensitisation Programmes and a little different from just saying God is Parliament and exercised in accordance with Listening to one parliamentarian who good, God is powerful. the Constitution. lost his seat on an FM radio, I could not but ENRICHMENT DMMCEs have sympathy for him. He has on his own Encounter with traditional religion, Development at the constituency level, resources built six-unit classrooms in some therefore, means Christianity permeating the be it infrastructural or whatever by MPs may parts of his constituency, paid the teachers culture and allowing itself, thereby, to be be an outcome of their lobbying with the from his own resources, and many other enriched in its attempt to evangelize it. This central government or their individual efforts developments only to be voted out even in with some development agencies. Per the these areas, he had used his own resources. enrichment can take on many forms. African Some MPs at the national level are either tradition religion challenges Christianity to 1992 Constitution with its emphasis on local government, development at constituency Minister or Deputy Minister of State, serving re-appraise itself with regard to the many on so many Standing Committees of concepts which once were its pillars, but now l e v e l s h a s m o r e t o d o w i t h t h e District/Municipal/Metropolitan Chief Parliament because of their expertise and are disappearing irrelevant. competence. Day-to-day communication *Archbishop Sarpong Executives (DMMCE) who are appointed by WHOLENESS with constituencies might not be as frequent Government and not by political parties. Wholeness is an idea that is highly as expected. Voting them out, because of a sacraments are very concrete examples of Ghana follows the unitary system of theological. Jesus Christ was man and God at misconception that not much infrastructural symbols and their use. In the sacraments, we governance as opposed to the federal form of development had taken place during his or her the same time. That one person had the nature use objects and words to stand for a spiritual governance in countries such as Nigeria or the tenure as if MPs are as powerful as MMDCs of God and the nature of man, he was God reality and to cause it. We are proud to use United States. Perhaps to forestall some of the when it comes to local infrastructural made visible and he was man, the victim of possible administrative bottlenecks from the flags, college blazers and crests and insignia development is unfortunate. My point is this: our sin. Yet he did not draw a rigid dichotomy central government typical of unitary systems of office. if we are not careful to educate especially our between his God- head and his humanity, he of governance, the framers of the 1992 Flags stand for patriotism and in a way youth on the core mandate of people we vote was at the same time both. He was whole, not cause it: we salute flags, fly them half-mast constitution ensured that the DMMCE at the truncated. This concept of wholeness is found into parliament that essentially they are NOT to show grief and on ships to indicate country local level of governance were given the development agents (even though they may very clearly in African traditional religion. To of origin. College blazers and crests indicate oversight responsibility of local level help to facilitate development in their the African the rigid dichotomy between the and sustain loyalty to the alma-mater. In all development. What this means in practical constituencies through strategic political sacred and the profane, the secular and the terms is that, if there is a political friction African cultures, symbols play a vital role in lobbying, why not?), we would end up losing religious, the material and the immaterial, is between an MP and these DMMCEs the life of the people. Our culture is a our best political brains in parliament. Politics artificial. A human person is a composite of regardless of which of the political divide the symbolic culture. We find symbols in our is a game of competition- at times unhealthy spirit and body and must be treated as such. If MP comes from, he or she could be frustrated dances, in our language, in our art and craft, competition either at the level of inter party or he were body alone, he would be a brute by any of these Chief Executives at the local in our institution such as marriage and intra party. Some people by nature compete animal. Were he only spirit, he would be an constituency. The Regional Minister and his by finding ways to 'destroy' their opponents angel. He is a human being precisely of the chieftaincy – everywhere. There was a time or her Regional Coordinating Council again through cheap popularity and maliciously inseparable combination of body and spirit. when the Church rightly emphasized the have virtually no role to play regarding undermining those they perceive as Hence disease does not affect the body alone; importance of symbols; but the present development issues at the local constituency 'stumbling block' to their hidden ambition. We levels. it has to do with the spirit also. Western world has inherited a host of need to be circumspect that inasmuch as we symbols that appear to be meaningless to it. Paradox encourage healthy political competition, Politics is not divorced from ordinary In my considered view, the above life. Whatever a person is doing in the ideal Having lost the true meaning of symbols, it is especially at the parliamentary level, we do so no wonder that the Western world is also scenario is one of the paradoxes of political simultaneously ensuring that in losing some traditional setup, he is involved in religion. discourse of our times. On one hand, we hail Religion is part of life. It permeates a person's gradually losing the sense of religion itself. of our best brains and seasoned politicians, the victory of democracy, while we equally those we vote to replace them are equally life from cradle to grave. A person is born into The Church itself is a sacrament of the risen lament the fact that in many countries across Lord. The Church symbolizes Christ and his capable and competent, if we want to avoid a a religious atmosphere and from his the globe, the central institution of mediocre parliament. Above all, some form of conception to his death; there are major salvific activity among us and at the same democracy, namely, parliament is facing time makes Christ present to us. Here again, political sensitisation or education religious rituals to mark the major turning crisis of legitimacy. The legislators who have programme by the responsible institution of points of his existence. traditional religion could be a challenge to to attend to bills and sign them, approve of state on the core mandate of MPs may be There is little doubt that many of the orthodox Christianity and could enrich the loans and have them signed, etc. are virtually needed. Our MPs are essentially law makers problems of the world today stem from the latter enormously. 'powerless' before the DMMCE when it and NOT development agents as such. artificial barrier we have placed between the To be cont’d next week Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD 7 Marriage and Family Life DECEIT, Ground for Annulment (2) By Dr. John Boakye with fraud with signitucant they would not have because it could cloud your true regard to their moral, married the person if he/she was nature and put your marriage at aware of the true facts. The risk atican II says the social, juridical marriage is assumed not to have Marriage is a call by God to intimate union of identity of a person since such serve Him by what you do for marriage as mutual fraud impede the gift of their taken place from the onset and V your spouse. It is a call to giving of two persons and the persons and renders a stable parties are free to remarry. good of children demand total communism of married life Appreciate however that holiness to give glory to His gift fidelity of spouses and require impossible. One who enters ground for marriage is a threat to of marriage. It is therefore unbreakable bond between inveigled by deceit cannot form the marriage but does not mean important that you enter them. The gift of consent does a partnership of life and love. the affected partner must marriage with a clean heart without deceit because it is clear not refer only to their physical Deceit by its very nature can automatically end the marriage. bodies but require a gift of in the Bible that deceit is an act seriously disrupt the partnership In many cases, counselors, their persons as regards to God hates. Therefore to follow of conjugal life. Priest and family members help their intimate structure and Dr. Boakye God's path to the vocation of CIC 1098 says ' a person couples to work out their interior reality since man as a marriage, love truth and hate challenges especially where person is individual and contracts invalidly who enters lies because deceit cannot be in children are involved. complete with his moral, marriage inveigled by deceit your heart and soul and still partnership of the marriage. Engaging in deceit simply j u r i d i c a l a n d s o c i a l perpetuated in order to secure expect God's infilling of the Deceit can be ground for means you are not matured endowments. consent concerning some Holy Spirit. Fill your heart with annulment, a declaration issued sufficiently to understand A man's person is not really quality of the other party, which truth and stay away from by the through human beings to be able to determined only by his name or of its very nature can seriously f a l s e h o o d . T h e n a s y o u the Marriage Tribunal that a establish an intimate personal size or weight as he is disrupt the partnership of exchange your consent, God marriage is invalid because relationship. It also means your externally known in important conjugal love'. A person's becomes your witness and third understanding of the mature of matters as marriage in which he consent is invalid if given as a something beneficial was absent c o r d t o s t r e n g t h e n y o u r marriage is too low to qualify is bound to give himself totally result of being deceived by at the time of the exchange of marriage. You will enjoy the for valid consent. It also means and completely to the other fraud that is naturally inflicted consent. This means prior to the amazing benefits of marriage you plan to engage in marriage person in his true nature in order to give the person a validation of marriage, one or and it will be a gospel to others. which is not in tune with the especially his or her spiritual consent or some quality of the both of the partners were Therefore let your marriage be Catholic teachings on marriage. nature. The gift of exchange of other party which of its very deceived about an aspect of the held in honour. Therefore get rid of deceit consent cannot be consistent nature can seriously disturb the other person that was so END

CELEBRATING PONTIFICAL SOCIETY OF MISSIONARY CHILDHOOD (HOLY CHILDHOOD) – 7TH – 14TH FEBRUARY, 2021

Rev. Fr. Isaac Ebo-Blay During a conversation with Pauline and care. National Director, PMS Ghana Marie Jaricot who had founded the Society Today, the Society of the Missionary for the Propagation of the Faith, Bishop Childhood continues to follow the vision of h e P o n t i f i c a l S o c i e t y o f Forbin-Janson shared his own longtime Bishop Forbin-Janson with its motto: Missionary Childhood or Holy dream – to help the children in the mission “Children helping Children.” The TChildhood, is one of the four (4) territories. Like Pauline, he saw the Holy/Missionary Childhood is also seen as Pontifical Mission Societies in the “riches” of the poor mission churches of the “School of Jesus” where children from Catholic Church. It leads children to his day. He was convinced that though the age of reason (7) to (14) are formed to be discover the missionary spirit and teaches weak and needing care, children rich in “little missionaries.” As friends of Jesus, them to help children of their age around faith and love were capable of playing their they make friends for Jesus. Children are the world through prayer and small part in the Church's mission and if even helped to evangelize. They make the love of material sacrifices. move adults to the same generous Christ known. As disciples, they make THE HISTORY missionary spirit. disciples for Christ. Children are educated to The Society of Missionary Childhood Sometime during the course of their become co-workers in promoting the or Holy Childhood was founded in 1843 by talk, Holy Childhood, was born. Bishop Kingdom of God. They evangelize their Bishop Charles de Forbin-Janson, a Forbin-Janson started appealing to families and other children. Frenchman born into a wealthy family and children of France to reach out in faith and After learning about the great needs of Fr. Ebo-Blay given a very good Catholic education. After love to help needy children in mission the world's poorest children, young people the French Revolution, Charles had concern areas. are invited to pray and to offer financial help for the Church in France. Churches and THE SOCIETY so that children in the mission territories, Society is: “Openness to everyone, everyone monasteries were being closed or turned into With its mission to bring children's including Ghana, may know Christ and a missionary.” museums and children were growing up attention to the spiritual and material needs experience His love and care. The Society's I n G h a n a , t h e f e a s t o f t h e goals can be summed up as follows: ignorant of their faith. At the age of 23, he of children throughout the world through Holy/Missionary Children is celebrated on Ÿ decided to become a priest. At the age of 38, prayers and sacrifices, the Pontifical To awaken and create in children the Sunday close to the Feast of the he became a Bishop of Nancy. Society of the Holy Childhood/ the awareness of the mission work of the Presentation of the Lord. Many French Bishops who were Missionary Childhood was founded in Church. Conclusion: The Holy/Missionary serving as missionaries in the United States Nancy, France in 1843. Pope Pius XI Ÿ To let children participate in Childhood is for the Christian and of America – a mission territory of his day – recognized this work as “pontifical” in his missionary work through prayer, sacrifices Missionary formation of Children and their wanted Bishop of Nancy in France to visit Encyclical Letter Rerun Ecclesiae on educators. It is for the Evangelisation of the young U.S. Churches and then return February 28, 1926. Pope Pius XII in his and offerings (Children LOVE Children). home to encourage interest and support for Apostolic Letter Praeses Consilio Ÿ To move children to share their other children, their families and their work. (December 4, 1950) instituted the Annual faith and material means with the children of communities. It is for the promotion of lay, Continuing his travels, Bishop Forbin- Holy Childhood Day. the neediest churches – (Children HELP consecrated and priestly missionary vocations. It is for the evangelisation of non- Janson also visited New Orleans and THE MISSION Children). Baltimore, as well as Canada, all on The Society concentrates its efforts Christians especially in the mission Ÿ To promote in the hearts of children houseback. He preached retreats, celebrated on teaching the faith to all children, territories, for carrying out missionary Masses for congregations packed in small protecting the rights of children and the zeal and love for missionary vocations – pastoral care with children. We wish the churches and chapels, and gathered children providing assistance in situations where (Children ARE MISSIONARIES and a spirit-filled for religious instruction. Two years later he children are suffering from famine, abuses, inspire other Children to BECOME Missionary Childhood celebration this year- returned to France. sickness and/or lack of parental affection MISSIONARIES). The slogan of the 2021. 8 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021

seven-member telling Ghanaians that the time delegation of the had come for politicians to be AGhana Catholic GCBC Delegation Calls held more accountable for their B i s h o p s ’ C o n f e re n c e stewardship and to be more (GCBC), on Thursday, r e s p o n s i v e t o t h e i r January 28, 2021 called on on Speaker of Parliament Constituents. the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Bagbin added that Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford while he does not intend to be a S u m a n a B a g b i n , t o stumbling block to government congratulate him on his The visit was also to The Metropolitan said he was looking forward invite the Speaker and his Archbishop of Cape Coast to a Memorandum of business, he intends to lead assumption of office as Parliament to scrutinise laws S p e a k e r o f t h e 8 t h two Deputies who are both who is also the Vice U n d e r s t a n d i n g o n a Catholics, to the Plenary P r e s i d e n t o f t h e partnership between the and instruments from the Parliament of the 4th Executive for the ultimate good Republic of Ghana. Assembly of the Bishops in Conference, Archbishop Church and the State on May this year. Charles Palmer-Buckle, education. of the country and for the H e a l s o m a d e national interest to prevail. reference to the Catholic The Speaker also made University College and reference to the Committees of requested the Speaker’s the 8th Parliament and said assistance to enable the there will be changes in the University which is already formation and numbers of the 12 years, to acquire a Committees to reflect the Charter. objective of Parliament to Archbishop Palmer- ensure that Committees reflect Buckle also made reference specialised subject areas that to the Comprehensive are focused and manageable by Sexuality Education and the Committees. This is to said the ideology behind it is optimise the effort and output of a g a i n s t A f r i c a n a n d the Members and Parliament as Ghanaian cultures and must a whole. therefore be discouraged. The delegation was led by Rt. Hon. Bagbin said the President of the Catholic his election as Speaker was Bishops’ Conference and Archbishop of Tamale, Most Mr. Bagbin interacting with Archbishop Naameh (left), Archbishop by divine intervention and Rev. Philip Naameh. Palmer-Buckle (right) and Rev. Fr. Lazarus Anondee, said it was God’s way of Source: Parliament of Secretary General of the National Catholic Secretariat. Ghana

SD Reform, a Tamale-based would be given to up to seven of them if NGO, recently donated a the assessment recommends the need for CSD Reform Donates Cp r i n t e r, p h o t o c o p i e r, their training, adding that other units desktop computer, metal file would also benefit from their support. cabinet, two laptops and files to the Deputy Director of Prisons, Mr. Office Equipment To Para-Legal Unit of Tamale Central Samuel Sapak Zoogah, the Northern Prisons to assist staff of the unit to Regional Prisons Commander, who e f f e c t i v e l y c a r r y o u t c a s e received the donation on behalf of his Tamale Prison management. staff and the Director- The donation is part of the General of the Ghana second phase of a pilot project dubbed P r i s o n S e r v i c e , “Harnessing Opportunities for Prison thanked the donor for Ex-convicts (HOPE Project)”, being their generosity. He implemented by CSD Reform in disclosed that until partnership with the Prison authorities recently, most prison and funded by Misereor, a Germany- facilities did not have based Catholic funding agency which lawyers to offer legal aims among others, to decongest services to remand prisons and also provide economic prisons, necessitating and social support benefits targeted at the establishment of remand prisoners and ex-offenders in the para-legal units Tamale and its environs. about two years ago. Mr. David Y. Issaka, Executive H e s a i d t h e Director of CSD Reform in a brief donation would greatly speech prior to the presentation, assist the unit in its d i s c l o s e d t h a t a n e v a l u a t i o n work in speeding up the conducted at the end of the pilot phase wheels of justice for identified the need to resource the remand prisoners. para-legal unit to effectively perform Currently, there its role to enable remand prisoners get are 193 male and eight speedy access to legal services and female convicts in the justice, hence the gesture. Tamale Central Prison Mr. Issaka said his outfit would while 98 male inmates engage a lawyer to assess the capacity are remand prisoners. of staff of the para-legal unit, From Francis E. Mr. Issaka (left), presenting the office equipment promising that the necessary training Monnie, to Mr. Zoogah while some senior staff of the Prison look on. CAMP-G THE CATHOLIC STANDARD Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 9 St. James Church Donates To Arnold Janssen’s Centre SVD, gave the homily. Receiving the donation on behalf of the Centre, its Director, Fr. Obeng, expressed gratitude to the Parish for the gesture. Briefing parishioners on the project, Fr. Obeng said the three-storey facility, when completed will have 48 self-contained bedrooms and a 300 seater Hall for hosting both residential and non-residential programmes. He disclosed that, so far the ground floor was completed with 12 bedrooms, three chapels, dining hall, offices and a lecture room. Fr. Obeng announced that, in its current state, the Centre is able to host programmes such as recollections and retreats for individuals and groups, including Priests and Religious. Other services provided by the Centre, include spiritual direction and Psychotherapy services. He noted that a flagship programme of the Centre is the pre-wedding and post-marital *PPC Chair, Her Ladyship Mrs Ama Gaisie presenting the retreats for couples and appealed to Catholics to cheque to Fr. Obeng.. Looking on are Mrs. Esther Abakah take advantage of this service to strengthen the (2nd right) and Mrs. Mansah Agyare (2nd left). marriage institution in the Church. Fr. Obeng further disclosed that, on he St. James Catholic Church, Osu in Tuba in support of its ongoing project. completion, the Centre will also have a Grotto and Accra as part of its Golden Jubilee The main celebrant of the Holy Mass a serene environment with different kinds of Tcelebration presented GH¢50,000 to preceding the donation was Rev. Fr. Emmanuel animals and appealed to individuals and groups to the St. Arnold Janssen's Spirituality Centre at Obeng Codjoe, while Rev. Fr. Andrews Obeng, come to the aid of the Centre. From Philip Beyuo 10 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 President Akufo-Addo’s 23rd Update on Measures Taken Against COVID-19

Fellow Ghanaians, good evening. enforce, to the letter, the protocols relating came into your homes, on 17th to attendance, i.e. the Government. January, to give an account of two-hour duration, Reduction in COVID-19 test at our COVID-19 situation – a one-metre social KIA I t h situation which, per available data distancing, mask At the 58 Summit of the at the time, was not good. w e a r i n g , u s e o f Authority of ECOWAS Heads of To this end, I appealed to you, my sanitizers, and the State and Government, held virtually, fellow Ghanaians, to help contain the presence of veronica it was agreed that the cost of the spread of the virus by respecting the buckets, liquid soap, COVID test for in-bound ECOWAS protocols Government had put in and rolls of tissue nationals be pegged at fifty United place. paper. States dollars ($50) at the Kotoka The hope was that we would I note that, since International Airport (KIA). begin to see an improvement in our the re-opening of our The cost of the test for non- case count, as a result. Two weeks on schools, two weeks ECOWAS nationals still remains one from that address, the situation is even a g o , w e h a v e hundred and fifty ($150) dollars. worse. witnessed only few ECOWAS nationals and travelers, COVID-19 Cases & Deaths reports of cases who test positive, will bear the cost of As of Friday, 29th January, sixty- amongst students. I the mandatory isolation and President Akufo-Addo four (64) more people have, sadly, appeal to school treatment. Ghanaian nationals, died, over the last two weeks, bringing a u t h o r i t i e s a n d however, who test positive, upon their arrival into the country, will the total number of confirmed deaths to The imposition of restrictions on teachers to enforce the guidelines have their isolation and treatment four hundred and sixteen (416). Our our daily routines helped in reducing provided by the Ghana Education costs borne by the State. hospitalization rates are increasing, the prevalence of the pandemic in the Service, and I urge the Ghana Health Importation of COVID-19 with the number of critically and country, and Government has been left Service to continue their surveillance Vaccines severely ill persons now at one with no option but to re-introduce at the schools, so we can contain any Fellow Ghanaians, in Update hundred and seventy-two (172). some of these restrictions in order to reported cases. No. 21, I indicated that Ghana is set to Our hospitals have become full, help save the situation. Enforcement Of The Protocols procure her first consignment of the and we have had to reactivate our I know these measures, in the As we step up public education COVID vaccines within the first half isolation centres. Our average daily recent past, were unpleasant, but, over and enforcement of the protocols on of this year. Since then, a lot of work rates of infection now stand at seven a period, they resulted in a favourable public gatherings, let me also state that has been done towards the realisation hundred (700), compared to two situation for our country. We have to regulatory agencies will undertake of this. Our aim is to vaccinate the hundred (200) two weeks ago. return to them. random checks to ensure conformity entire population, with an initial The total number of active cases Re-introduction of Restrictions with these rules, and the security target of twenty million people. has more than doubled, from a little So, fellow Ghanaians, until services will be tasked to enforce T h r o u g h b i l a t e r a l a n d over one thousand, nine hundred further notice, funerals, weddings, them. multilateral means, we are hopeful (1,900), two weeks ago, to five concerts, theatrical performances, and You do not have to be arrested by that, by the end of June, a total of thousand, three hundred and fifty- parties are banned. Private burials, the Police before you wear your mask, seventeen million, six hundred eight (5,358) currently. with no more than twenty-five (25) your workplace should not be closed thousand (17.6 million) vaccine When I delivered Update No. 22, people, can take place, with the for non-conformity with the protocols, doses would have been procured for thirteen (13) out of the sixteen (16) enforcement of the social distancing, if there is no urgent reason for you to be the . The earliest regions had recorded active cases; hygiene and mask wearing protocols. outside, please stay at home. vaccine will be in the country by today, all sixteen (16) regions have Beaches, night clubs, cinemas, Each one of us can help to contain March. active cases. and pubs continue to be shut. Our the spread if we continue to practice The Food and Drugs Authority Indeed, Greater Accra, Central, borders by land and sea remain closed. the measures of social distancing, (FDA) will use its established Western, Ashanti, Eastern, Upper East, All workplaces, public and washing our hands with soap under processes for granting emergency- Upper West, Volta, and Northern private, must employ a shift-system for running water, refraining from shaking use-authorization for each vaccine in Regions are the hardest hit, accounting workers, in addition to the use of hands, and, wearing our masks Ghana. As President of the Republic, for ninety-four percent (94%) of the virtual platforms for business or work. whenever we leave our homes. These I assure you that only vaccines that total number of active cases. Conferences and workshops can take measures must be respected by all. have been evaluated and declared as In effect, fellow Ghanaians, we place with all the appropriate I urge you, my fellow Ghanaians, safe-for-use in Ghana will be have a lot of work to do in coming to protocols. However, I encourage the to continue to pay attention to your administered. grips with the disease. Given that use of virtual platforms for such health, improve your fitness levels, Government will continue to recent studies show that the UK and engagements. and eat our local foods that boost your monitor our COVID-19 situation, other new variants are being Restaurants should provide take- immunity. Should you at any point feel and will remain resolved in ensuring away services, and should, as much as transmitted within the population, we unwell, or exhibit the most common that we are able to return to normal possible, avoid seated services. The should all understand that our current symptoms of COVID-19, such as daily routines. I remain hopeful that National Sports Authority and the situation could get very dire if efforts fever, dry cough, tiredness, please if each one of us embraces fully the Ghana Football Association should are not made, both on the part of report to the nearest health facility and safety protocols, and we continue to ensure compliance with the twenty- Government and by you, the citizenry, get tested. put our faith in the Almighty, we will five percent (25%) capacity rule in our to help contain the virus. Free COVID-19 Tests For emerge strongly from this pandemic. The analysis continues to tell us stadia, with spectators respecting the My faith in God tells me that this social distancing rule and wearing of Ghanaians that the spread of the virus mostly COVID-19 tests are free for all too shall pass! For the Battle is the masks. occurs in indoor, confined spaces with Ghanaians at public health institutions. Lords!! To the revered leaders of our poor ventilation, where people are If a Ghanaian citizen returns a positive May God bless us all, and our religious organisations, i.e. our talking, singing, or shouting without result, the cost of care at isolation and homeland Ghana, and make her great churches and mosques, I entreat you to their masks. treatment centres will be borne by and strong. I thank you for your attention. Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD 11 Mission House Commissioned at Bechem

ost Rev. Peter Kwaku Chief Executive for Tano South, Atuahene, Bishop of the Mr. Collins Offinam Takyi and MGoaso Diocese recently other opinion leaders in the Tano commissioned a storey building South Municipality. mission house for the St. Joseph From Michael Akornoba Parish at Bechem as part of the activities marking his pastoral visit to the Parish. The Bishop thanked Frs. Peter Nimo, then Parish Priest, the initiator and Rev. Fr. Sixtus Kyei Kusi, current Priest as well as the parishioners for their immense contribution to the completion of the project. He called *Bishop Atuahene, Nana Fosu on them to continuously collaborate Gyeabour Akoto ll cut the tape while for the spiritual and physical the Church elders look on. Inset is the Mission House. development of the Church. Bishop Atuahene reminded the f a i t h f u l i n B e c h e m a n d i t s surrounding communities of the need to observe the COVID-19 safety protocols and all the necessary Rawlings Set the Pace for Fourth Republican measures put in place to prevent the spread of the virus. Constitution – Bishop Lodonu Fr. Kyei Kusi said the mission ost Rev. Francis K. A. Rawlings changed Ghana totally, h o u s e h a s e n o u g h r o o m s t o Lodonu, Emeritus Bishop of Nkrumah was a man for Africa, while accommodate the Parish Priest, his MHo has stated that late President Rawlings was for Ghana, assistants and other visiting Priests. President Jerry John Rawlings could be which he did by stabilising and He was grateful to Fr. Nimo for the christened as one individual that set the nurturing the fledgling democracy, its pace for constitutionalism and independence. project. d e m o c r a t i s a t i o n , g i v i n g t o t a l He observed that crafting a The Church President, Mr. development to the country in post- constitution was the highest point of his George Ampofo, thanked the Bishop independence Ghana. career by stabilising the country. for the visit and assured him of the He acknowledged that though Dr. He requested a re-establishment preparedness of the faithful in Kwame Nkrumah attained independence and a change in the June 4th celebration for the country, his efforts soon drifted not as a day of triumph, but one to hone Bechem to give the Church the towards continental liberation, but former the ideas of reconciliation, prayer, and Bishop Lodonu needed support. President Rawlings remained solid in lectures as a constant reminder of our The Bishop was accompanied by shaping the ideals of nationalism and recent past. former President, we live in a safe Ghana.” Rev. Msgr. Matthew Addai, the Vicar n a t i o n h o o d a f t e r t o r t u r o u s The youth must be told the ideals experimentation of the country's destiny. He said “Rawlings' death was one of General of the Diocese and Principal of June 4th and how that shaped the “These emerged as ideals foisted on collective past and carved a niche for the greatest shocks he as an octogenarian of St. Joseph's College of Education probity, accountability, and stability the future towards the goal of nation- received. This is a very sad day and year for at Bechem. Also present were Nana c a s c a d i n g i n t o a c c o u n t a b i l i t y, building. Ghana, our motherland for losing a great transparency, and rule of law.” B i s h o p L o d o n u s a i d t h e son. Fosu Gyeabour Akoto II, the “As far as fighting corruption was Omanhene of Bechem Tradional Area Bishop Lodonu, who was speaking in takeaways for the youth was for them to an interview said former President stay away from violence, greed and be concerned, he was a man who was not and his entourage; the Municipal part of nationalism irrespective of their afraid to speak out. He did everything to political persuasion. promote honesty to society.” “We should avoid corruption and He could not fit into any political stealing and build a nation that can be party and vice versa, so the option was to emulated by the rest of Africa as Ghana form his own political party. was the first to gain independence and Since he is not here anymore, EMPLOYEE NEEDED w e c o u l d m o v e G h a n a a h e a d Ghanaians must know about his history and economically, socially, and politically. personality. He urged the youth to enjoy the His presence will still be felt in the peace and the beautiful country by legislature, parliament, judiciary, and civil Tailor, Seamstress or Factory hand needed. keeping the environment clean and service. He will always be remembered by safe. Ghanaians. We should follow his He said former President principles; he always yearned for probity, Located: Near Rapture School, Teshie. Rawlings ventilated the recognition of accountability, and honesty.” He described former President The prospective employee must preferably reside near Teshie or women and particularly in politics too, ideals that needed to be inculcated into Rawlings as the one who brought all its environs. the youth. revolutions to stop the coup d'etat. He “We should try to follow the ushered in the constitution which he Kindly contact: principles for which Rawlings died organised people from all walks of life, to solemnly because he would want be represented irrespective of their Ghana to be a prosperous country occupation, at the constitutional formation. 0552376837 or 0273636771 therefore we should work hard to make He did great things through the Ghana great. constitution and many people have for further enquiries. Because of the struggle of the gratitude towards that. GNA 12 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 PUBLIC PRESENTATION OF THE KAMPALA DOCUMENT (2) 21ST JANUARY 2021 6. Major Exhortations of the the equilibrium of our organisms and our Document FIRST PAPER relationship with the surrounding world The Document exhorts members of (no. 102). the Church-Family of God in Africa and the (no. 209). All Christians are not only Since illiteracy contributes to the Islands (without exception), other sons and exhorted to be “men and women of marginalization of a person, there is a call daughters of Africa and Madagascar, and conviction who ground their ideals and for integral human education to be made people of good-will everywhere to devote political practices on ethical, spiritual and accessible to everyone in Africa so that all time “to study the life of Jesus in the gospels” gospel values” but “to distinguish will be equipped “to assume their (no. 140), to know him more deeply and themselves by their quality of life and by r e s p o n s i b i l i t y i n d i v i d u a l l y a n d follow him more closely, so as “to receive being witnesses in their own homes and collectively in matters pertaining to from him the fullness of life that he brought working places, so as to be counted among psychological, affective, moral and to humanity” (cf. Jn 10:10; 17:3). To this the good and honest leaders of social spiritual maturity and in matters of end, each addressee is required to seek or groups, families, in the neighbourhoods of employment and social integration” (no. deepen a personal encounter with Christ; salvation of souls and terrestrial life, villages and towns, associations and 112; cf. no. 113). Everything possible welcome, and “receive the Logos, the Word contemplation and action” (no. 155). In this movements” (nos. 210-211). should be done to ensure that “every child of God”, adhere to him as a person rather connection, all members of the Church- Leaders of government on the of school going age is in school. It is than an idea, and be committed to him (nos. Family of God in Africa, Madagascar and continent are further called upon to evolve simply a question of justice for each 65, 68, 124). This will enable one to draw the Islands are urged “to continue resisting “policies that would empower people to child”. And education consists in helping from him the strength and zeal necessary for all vices, and remain faithful to the gospel recognize the surpassing value of the family people “to become more human, so that evangelizing mission, rooted in his example, even to the total giving up of their life; and take concrete initiatives for its re- they might ‘be’ more, not simply so that and that support the building of “a new to resist temptations and practices construction”. On her part, the Church- they might ‘have’ more” (nos. 200-201). Africa centred on God” (nos. 1,62-63). which promote faith without works, Family of God in Africa is to assist “the In the spirit of co-responsibility, the We Christians are equally entreated to injustice, selfish political actions, looting of youth discover the values and the clergy are urged “to treat the laity with be signs of the presence of God and friends the national wealth, the worship of political importance of marriage”; accompany respect and as mature adults. They are of Christ who has chosen us (cf. Jn 15:14-16) personalities, dishonesty, social resignation “young couples in the first year of their invested by their baptismal commitment “for a noble mission” everywhere we find and quick enrichment by illegal, magical and matrimonial life; and strengthen with the right to become God’s ourselves (no. 184). We are to live our fake religious means” (no. 155). matrimonial and family spirituality (no. collaborators in reconciling the world to Christian life or vocation without reducing Christians and all men and women of 199). God” (no. 147). its meaning “to the materialistic satisfaction goodwill in leadership positions in African Media practitioners are invited to use 7. Conclusion of human desires”; and “to avoid the danger countries, who are committed to the the media “to spread the truth” and not After the celebration of the Golden of promoting a Christianity, which focuses common good of their people, honest and falsehood, to propose the beautiful, and not Jubilee of SECAM, a new chapter is on the salvation of souls without the body” or just, and not easily disheartened, are the ugly (no. 212). Similarly, particular opened for the Church-Family of God in one “that is a recipe for fleeing from the encouraged to find in the gospels and the Churches are exhorted “to be more present Africa. Therefore, we Christians on the Cross in search of miracles and quick social doctrine of the Church the principles in the media in order to make the media, not continent, especially, need to “gird our solutions to human problems” (no. 129), and of servant-leadership, patriotism and good only a tool for spreading the gospel”, but loins for the mission” entrusted to us by guard “against spiritualities of deliverance governance, of which Africa stands in need; also one for the formation of African the Father, through the Son and the Holy and prosperity”, which advocate a they are also to follow Christian principles peoples in truth and reconciliation, and for Spirit (no. 219). We pray that the Blessed Christianity devoid of the mystery of the and propose them to others in daily life and the promotion of justice and peace (no. Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, Our Lady Cross, and anchored “on success and in politics (no. 208); and to model their 213). of life and hope and the Queen of Africa, miraculous solutions to the problems of life” vocation on that of Julius Nyerere, Servant All the people of Africa and the and Saint Joseph, may intercede for us. (no. 158). of God, who was a good “Christian Islands are earnestly entreated to care May they also accompany us on the Christian politicians, rulers, public politician during his tenure as President of intensely for the Earth, “the home of the mission and obtain for us renewed zeal, so officials, employees and employers, women his country, Tanzania” (nos. 210-211). human family” (no. 101); to instantly stop t h a t w e m a y b e c o m e e f f e c t i v e and men actors in the economic and Christians who desire to govern or to be the careless attitude towards nature by evangelisers and true witnesses of the agricultural sectors, commerce, domestic administrators of public affairs or exercise clearing the filth in our homes or quarters, gospel to our people and everywhere in and informal domains are passionately State power or activists in political parties, in our neighbourhood, and ending the noise the world. Amen (no. 219). END implored to put an end to “a dichotomy as well as concerned citizens who opt to pollution night and day, all practices which Managing Editor’s Note: Next between faith and politics, the kingdom of stand for the promotion of the rule of law and do not encourage a climate of peace, week we will serialise the Theological God and the transformation of the earth, the development of their countries, are urged silence, meditation and rest necessary for Reflection on the Document. “to acquire a basic training in these matters”

return to their normal ways of life.” Bishops in Nigeria’s Lagos Province Urge “We urge the populace to take the pandemic seriously, and “fair, equitable” COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution not scoff at it as a hoax,” the Church leaders further said and a t h o l i c B i s h o p s i n Ibadan Archdiocese and Ilorin, people dying or being hospitalised continued in reference to the Bishops said in their communiqué people of God in Nigeria, “They N i g e r i a ’ s L a g o s issued on January 29. Ondo, Oyo, Ekiti and Osogbo with serious sickness as a result of Ecclesiastical Province Dioceses stated. the coronavirus pandemic,” the should abide strictly by all the C Nigeria is set to receive safety measures put in place by the are advocating for “fair and They went on to “plead that Nigerian Bishops observed. 100,000 doses of the Pfizer authorities to prevent themselves equitable” distribution of our medical experts be allowed to They added “More than one vaccine early February, according and those around them from COVID-19 vaccines in the subject to appropriate test, the year after the first cases were to officials who have reported getting infected with COVID-19 country. COVID-19 vaccines coming into reported, the virus shows no sign about the country’s preparedness and getting seriously sick from it.” In their collective statement Nigeria in order to secure the of going away to allow people to ship in the vaccine. ACI Africa. shared with ACI Africa, the In the light of this shipment, confidence of Nigerians so that Catholic Local Ordinaries of Catholic Bishops in Nigeria’s they may willingly submit to the Lagos Archdiocese and the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province medication.” Dioceses of Abeokuta and Ijebu- asked that medical experts in the T h e B i s h o p s i n t h e Ode “urge that the distribution of country be allowed to subject Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos the vaccines be done in a fair and C O V I D - 1 9 v a c c i n e s t o made known their deliberations on equitable manner that ensures that independent tests to allay fears the situation of COVID-19 they get to all those who need them among the public about the safety pandemic in Africa’s most when they need them, regardless of the coronavirus jab. populous nation and across the of their social or economic status.” “We strongly recommend g l o b e i n t h e i r J a n u a r y 2 9 “We applaud the discovery that the authorities not allow communiqué. and production of vaccines to anyone to use the COVID-19 “Our country Nigeria and protect people from getting pandemic for selfish gains or indeed the entire world have infected by the virus and getting interests,” the Catholic Bishops continued to experience an seriously sick,” the Catholic of Ibadan Province comprising unrelenting rise in the number of Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD 13 Remembering Fr. Franz-Josef Eilers, SVD, PhD: Colleague and Friend engage with rich and deep dialogue with documents, advancing them to a new, his students was a testimony to the quality enlightening levels of understanding and and profundity of his teaching. He invited application. me to visit Radio Veritas, where a retreat Our last Zoom conversation occurred center is/was located for a weekend of prior to Christmas 2020. His vibrant relaxation and dialogue by the sea. There energy for what was important to him were others who gathered each day for his radiated through the conversation. We liturgies that reflected his profound love of were speaking about collaborating writing the Eucharist, deep faith, expressed an article on the impact of the pandemic on through his enlightened homilies. His the explosion of the use of virtual/digital Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski simplicity but brilliant presence was a technology in education. We were to testimony for each one of us. reconnect after the New Year to expand In the evenings, as we sat watching our conversation. This never occurred. y first encounter with Fr. the sunset over the sea, we would share Fr. Eilers is one of a kind. His passing F r a n z - J o s e f w a s w h i l e experiences, insights, concerns and is one of our great Catholic losses. Yet, as I The late Fr. Eilers Mserving on the Pontifical dreams for the future of the Catholic think about it, I am reminded of his Council for Social Communications Church with an emphasis on Social constant praise and love of his students. I Communications. May his writings (Vatican) in the late 1980's – 90's. The Communications and the importance of realize that each one of them now carries continue to inspire many into the future PCSC was working on the publication of research and formation of future Catholic Fr. Eilers torch into the future. They are to of Catholic Social Communications. a new Catholic Communications Leaders (women and men). Yet, his Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski, t h transmit forward the love, passion and d o c u m e n t c e l e b r a t i n g t h e 2 0 research constantly focused on a deep faithful dedication for reimagining how to MHSH, D.Min. Anniversary of Communio et Progressio. spiritual grasp of the theological and communicate faith in a rapidly shifting Executive Director – The The new document eventually would be spiritual grounding for appreciating, digital milieu. In this way, we each pay Institute for Pastoral Initiatives & known as “Aetatis Novae” (The Dawning understanding and communicating the tribute to our dearest friend, Fr. Franz- Virtual Learning Community for of a New Era). meaning and value of Catholic Social Josef Eilers. He always remains one of our Faith Formation Fr. Eilers brought his vast intellectual Communications. great friends, mentor and educator in the Professor – Department of knowledge and research on Social What I supremely appreciate about w i d e w o r l d o f C a t h o l i c S o c i a l Religious Studies, University of Communications to enable the Council to Fr. Eilers, besides our deep friendship, was Dayton tweak the new document with a fresh his visioning for the future of the Catholic perspective on the role of Pastoral Social Church. As the years passed along, Communications Planning within the changes occurred within the placement Sports Foreign Church. His prophetic emphasis on the and structure of Catholic Communications Column term 'Social Communications' which in the region. The term 'social' Premier Leagues Fixtures emerged during the Second Vatican communications seemed to be losing Council, resonated throughout his lifetime. momentum. I sensed his sorrow, and We engaged with numerous conversations grief, that what was so critically ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE Saturday, February 13, 2021 during and after each Council session. Each significant to him, may be dissolving with Saturday, February 06, 2021 Torino vs. Genoa conversation inspired me with the breadth the attraction of the rapid advances of Napoli vs. Juventus and depth of his wisdom and deep love for Aston Villa vs. Arsenal 'technology itself' for the sake of Burnley vs. Brighton Spezia vs. Milan challenging Catholic Church Episcopal technology without a larger vision of its Leeds Utd vs. Crystal Palace Sunday, February 07, 2021 Leadership for positioning Catholic Social impact. New times, new people, new Tottenham vs. West Brom Roma vs. Udinese Communications in the heart of seminary directions were misplacing something of Sheffield Utd. vs. Chelsea Sampdoria vs. Fiorentina and pastoral formation programmes. the dedicated passion he wrote and spoke Newcastle vs. Southampton Cagliari vs. Atalanta As the years unfolded, he invited me about throughout his life. Fulham vs. West Ham Crotone vs. Sassuolo to participate in a number of FABC- One of my great joys was co-editing Sunday, February 07, 2021 Inter Milan vs. Lazio BISCOM meetings in Hong Kong, Bali, a book publication tribute to Fr. Eilers with Wolves vs. Leicester City Thailand, etc. Each opportunity I Dr. Helmuth Rolfes (Germany) titled Liverpool vs. Man City SPANISH LA LIGA discovered the deep passion he brought to Monday, February 08, 2021 “Communicatio Socialis: Challenge of Saturday, February 06, 2021 his Social Communications research and Leeds Utd vs. Crystal Palace Theology and Ministry in the Church”. Levante vs. Granada teaching. He was one who encouraged and Saturday, February 13, 2021 Kassel University Press. 2007. Huecsa vs. Real Madrid nurtured research and publication within Leicester City vs. Liverpool In the past few years, Fr. Eilers and I Elche vs. Villarreal and among all of us who knew him. Crystal Palace vs. Burnley would Zoom meet. Praise God for Sevilla vs. Getafe He loved sharing his teaching Man City vs. Tottenham Zooming opportunities! He never was one Sunday, February 07, 2021 experiences, seeking out new insights from Brighton vs. Aston Villa not to learn a new technology if he could Real Sociedad vs. Cadiz colleagues from around the world to share Sunday, February 14, 2021 help it. During those zoom chats, he Athletic Club vs. Valencia with his students. Or, even to challenge Southampton vs. Wolves constantly praised his students. He shared Osasuna vs. Eibar each one of us to go deeper into where our West Brom vs. Man Utd. what they were studying, researching, Arsenal vs. Leeds Utd. Real Betis vs. Barcelona particular interests, or, pastoral experiences writing and his hopes and dreams for each Everton vs. Fulham Monday, February 08, 2021 lie related to the rapid digital evolution. Fr. one of them. He simply did not want them Atletico Madrid vs. Celta Vigo Eilers was an encourager, enabler, to carry on his legacy but for each one to Tuesday, February 09, 2021 ITALIAN SERIE A supporter, and, prophetic figure for make a unique passionate commitment for Real Madrid vs. Getafe hundreds, if not thousands of us around the advancing Social Communications in the Saturday, February 06, 2021 Friday, February 12, 2021 world. He simply never slowed down with Catholic Church. Atalanta vs. Torino Levante vs. Osasuna continuing his research, writing and I frequently have indicated in Sassuolo vs. Spezia Saturday, February 13, 2021 teaching. He was a passionate, loving and lectures I have given around the world that Juventus vs. Roma Granada vs. Atletico Madrid caring professor for each and every one of Fr. Eilers is the most expert Catholic Genoa vs. Napoli Sevilla vs. Huecsa his students. Communicator who not only knew every Sunday, February 07, 2021 Celta Vigo vs. Elche One year he invited me to the Catholic Church document written Benevento vs. Sampdoria Barcelona vs. Alaves Philippines to give a lecture at St. Tomas c o n c e r n i n g C a t h o l i c S o c i a l Udinese vs. Verona Sunday, February 14, 2021 University. During that time, I encountered Communications, but could quote Parma vs. Bologna Getafe vs. Real Sociedad many of his students and listened to their references without blinking an eye. Lazio vs. Cagliari Real Madrid vs. Valencia individual praise and enthusiasm for Fr. Furthermore, he contributed to the depth Friday, February 12, 2021 Eibar vs. Valladolid Villarreal vs. Real Betis Franz-Josef. Simply observing him of the concepts articulated within those Bologna vs. Benevento 14 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021

he Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Coast, Most Rev. ‘Everyone Can Be a Saint; TCharles Gabriel Palmer- Buckle, has reminded Christians that it is possible to become a saint in our Everyone Can Be Converted’ time. He was of the firm conviction that everybody could be converted if only we allow the grace of God to work within us. He made these remarks in a homily when he joined Seminarians at St. Paul Catholic Seminary, Sowutuom, in Accra, to mark the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul. The Archbishop drew the attention of seminarians to the simple definition of a Saint: one who does ordinary things in an extraordinary way. He was therefore optimistic that it is possible to have saints amongst us today. Archbishop Palmer-Buckle suggested that we might perhaps not experience such “dramatic” conversion, Archbishop Palmer-Buckle (middle) with some Priests as happened to St. Paul, today. However, and Benefactors after the Mass. each day presents us the opportunity to convert; to make a “u-turn” to God. He Rector of the Seminary, was full of praise reminded Christians that we have been for the Archbishop for continuously called to walk towards perfection, for championing the needs of the Seminary. He which reason we should not allow our acknowledged the good works of the THANK YOU ST. JUDE NOVENA sins and weaknesses to overwhelm and Seminary's Governing Council and prayed Most Holy Apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend cripple us from rising after every fall but for God's blessings on the Councillors. of Jesus, the Church honours and invokes you universally, as persevere to the end. The Acting Rector, Very Rev. Fr. the patron of hopeless cases, of things almost despaired of. Francis Lemaire, in his address thanked the Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone. Make use I implore He challenged the “future Priests” you, of that particular privilege given to you, to bring visible to always remember that the Lord who benefactors and benefactresses of the and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to called them did not make a mistake, and Seminary especially Justice Brobbey, a my assistance in this great need that I may receive the as such, they should take solace in this retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Mr. consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, fact and strive towards total conversion Kwame Pianim, a Statesman and former tribulations, and sufferings, particularly - (here make your Finance Minister, and Mr. Martin Essoun, request) that I may praise God with you and all the elect each day of their lives. forever. The day, which is set aside as the among others. I promise, O blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of Feast Day of the Seminary, brought The Archbishop prayed for the this great favour, to always honour you as my special and together some benefactors of the benefactors and thanked them on behalf of powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. the Governing Council. Amen. S e m i n a r y w h o s e c o n t i n u o u s th benevolence has been of tremendous There was a Guard of Honour Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days. By the 8 day, help to the Seminary. mounted by the seminary's Cadet Corps in your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Welcoming the Archbishop, Rev. honour of the Archbishop. The celebration Publication must be promised. Fr. John Doe Dormah, the Acting Vice was climaxed with an in-house feasting. – Helen and Larl Krause Wisdom Martin Kongor/radio angelus

r. Franz Josef Eilers, cultures” (4th ed. 2012) to SVD (1932-2021), Fr. Franz Josef Eilers, SVD is Dead “Communicating in ministry Fone of the founding and mission" (4th ed. 2018). fathers of the Catholic I n r e c o g n i t i o n o f h i s M e d i a C o u n c i l Federation of Asian Bishops' the Communicatio Socialis outstanding contributions in (CAMECO), passed away Conference (FABC), the Yearbook, which drew on the the field of Church and social in Manila on January13, Director of the Asian knowledge of internationally communication, the Asian 2021. One of the main R e s e a r c h C e n t r e f o r renowned experts such as Media, Information and a d v o c a t e s f o r t h e R e l i g i o n a n d S o c i a l N o r a Q u e b r a l o f t h e Communication Centre foundation of CAMECO in Communication (ARC) and Philippines, Frank Ugboajah (AMIC) awarded Fr. Eilers the 1 9 6 9 , a n d i t s s e c o n d Consultor of the Pontifical of Nigeria and Gaston 2 0 1 8 ‘ Tr a n s f o r m a t i v e Executive Director from C o u n c i l f o r S o c i a l Roberge of India. Leadership Award’. 1971 till 1985, his name is Communication, Fr. Eilers In 2003, Fr. Eilers As one of the pioneers in inextricably linked to the helped shape the Church's founded "Religion and Social the field, he looked at media history of CAMECO. A communication approach in Communication," a journal and communication not luminary in the field of merely from a technical important ways. He also Fr. Eilers published from St. John's church communication as s u p e r v i s e d n u m e r o u s University in Bangkok and standpoint but also from one well as the social aspects of that involved the social, doctoral and master theses f o u n d e d t h e j o u r n a l dedicated to interfaith communication and media, intercultural and relationship- on social communication at Communicatio Socialis, communication in the Asian he was also a passionate building aspects of it. In this the University of Santo which has remained a central context. His broad academic teacher and a prolific regard, his perspective may be Tomas, where he helped to forum in German language interests are also reflected in contributor to academic deemed almost prophetic as it e s t a b l i s h t h e d e g r e e for media ethics and church his numerous books, ranging literature. predates the emergence of p r o g r a m m e " P a s t o r a l communication to the from “Christian Journalism Serving as the Executive social media by several Communication". present day. In 1981, he i n A f r i c a ” ( 1 9 6 4 ) a n d Secretary of the Office of decades. In 1968, Fr. Eilers co- initiated the publication of “Communicating between Social Communication of the cameco.org Sunday, February 7, – Saturday, February 13, 2021 THE CATHOLIC STANDARD 15 FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Reflection on READINGS: Job 7:1-4, 6-7/ Psalm 147:1-6 / 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23 /Mark 1:29-39

God's Word THEME: THE HEALING POWER OF JESUS More than ever, we need the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus remains powerful Rev. Fr. Andrews Obeng, SVD I am allotted months of enough to lift us up when we are emptiness, and nights of down. He is able to heal us when we misery are apportioned to are sick and to deliver us when we are me” (Job 7:2-3). It was a in bondage. The dying also need Jesus difficult moment in Job's that they may find peace on their life. One problem after the n s p i t e o f p e r i o d i c other had rendered him vulnerable. journey to the world unknown to the maintenance, vehicles still Struggling with ill health, he poured senses. Paul felt obliged to preach this Ibreak down or develop out his lamentation like a river. It is Gospel and he says of himself: “Woe problems occasionally. Similarly, helpful to note that Job was a righteous to me if I do not preach the gospel!” (1 no matter how much we invest man. He was a lover of God and yet he Cor. 9:16). into maintenance of our lives here fell sick. We may be faithful In the person of Christ, we have on earth, there are moments when Christians and yet break down Fr. Obeng found an answer to life's challenges. things go wrong and we break somewhere on lives arduous journey. Are you beset with one problem or the down. Every human being is Problems and sickness do not affect who came looking for Jesus. They other? Is there trouble anywhere? v u l n e r a b l e . S o m e w h e r e unbelievers only. There are many had issues in their lives and had come Jesus the healer and deliverer comes sometime, we all have to contend 'Jobs' in the Church today who are seeking for divine assistance. In fact, to each one of us today and stretches w i t h w e a k n e s s . I t m a y b e going through suffering and stand in we are told, “the whole town was His hands towards us to make us characterised by a sudden ailment need of God's intervention. There are gathered at the door.” whole. As we yield to His touch, He or misfortune. In such unpleasant people who have served God The person and mission of Jesus will lift us up from our beds of pain. seasons, who do we turn to for faithfully and yet are going through Christ is God's answer to a world PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, we help? Who will rescue us when we trials. However, for a child of God, a crying for help. With the upsurge and turn to you for help in these difficult are drowning in the sea of test precedes a testimony. scourge of COVID-19, we all stand times. You are our strength and our problems? In the Gospel text, we have an in need of God's help. Yes, we need to hope. Save us and set us free. Calm In our First Reading, Job account of many people who stood in follow all the laid down health our fears and fill us with the joy of laments saying: “Like a slave who need of help. Apart from the mother- protocols but we also know that salvation. With gratitude, we will longs for the shadow, and like a in-law of Peter who was down with protocols without the grace of God forever praise your name. Amen hireling who looks for his wages, so fever, there were so many other people cannot solve the problem at hand.

By Prof. Michael Father”... Lk 10:22; “I and the Ogunu, Nigeria THE DIVINITY OF CHRIST (3) Father are one”... Jn 10:30; “I am in the Father and the Father 6. His enemies knew his life. because she has loved much” is in me”... Jn 14:10; “All c l a i m o f d i v i n i t y, a n d When Pilate tried to acquit Therefore, since it is through things the Father has are crucified-Him precisely Jesus, the Jews cried out, “We love of God that sins are mine”... Jn 16:15; “He that because of that claim: have a law, and according to that forgiven, love of Him is love sees me sees also the Father”... “The Jews sought to kill law He ought to die” – Why? of God. Jn 14:9; “All power in heaven him because he said that God “Because he made himself the 8. Moreover, he did and earth has been given to was his father, thus making Son of God” (Jn 19:7). something totally unheard of: me”... Mt 28:18; “Know that himself equal to God”. ... “We He could have easily denied He delegated the power the Son of man has power on have a law and according to it or explained it away. But He to forgive sins to His close earth to forgive sins”... Mt 9:6; that law he ought to die, didn't. Even His Mother could disciples, the Apostles! “Whatsoever the Father does because He made himself the have saved him from death, by “Peace be to you! As the this the Son does in like Son of God” Jn. 19:7. *Prof. Ogunu simply admitting that His father Father has sent me, I also send manner”... Jn 5:19-23; “He His enemies admitted his was her deceased husband, you”. When he said this, he who loves father and mother claim to be divine, but rejected breathed upon them and said Joseph. But she didn't. more than me is not worthy of it – “I and the Father are one”. the Sabbath, the Jews took 7. He claims to be able to to them, “Receive the Holy me”... Mt 10:37; “I am the way, They were about to stone him offence. He said: “My Father forgive sins in his own name: Spirit; whosoever sins you the truth, and the life”... “I am for these words, “because”, works until now and I work”. To the man sick of the palsy, shall forgive, they are the resurrection and the life”... they said, “Thou being a man Their reaction? “They sought he said: “Son your sins are f o r g i v e n t h e m . A n d makest thyself God”. Jn 10:30- the more to kill him”. Why? – forgiven” – The Pharisees whosoever sins you shall Jn 11:25. That Jesus Christ claimed 33. Jesus did not show to them “Because ... he said God was his objected: “Who can forgive sins retain, they are retained” (Jn. that they had misunderstood father, making himself equal to but God only?” And they were 20:23) to be not only the Messiah but him. God”. quite correct: only God can 9. A few phrases from God Incarnate is self-evident, Our Lord makes it clear Far from saying they had forgive sins. Therefore, upon Him suffice to demonstrate according to the historical that He had two natures, one misunderstood him, Jesus claiming that He had the power to that he claimed divine nature, record left by the Apostles. Divine, and one human. When r e p l i e d : “ W h a t t h i n g s forgive sins, and by going to the titles, prerogatives, attributes That He died because of that He said, – “I and the Father are whatsoever the Father does, extreme of performing a miracle and names: claim is also evident. one”, He refers to the divine these the Son also does in like to prove that he was able to “I am from above”... Jn In spite of this clear nature, the same of the Father. manner ... for as the Father forgive sins, Jesus claimed that 8:23; “From God I came”... Jn testimony of the scriptures But when He said, “The Father raises up the dead and gives life, He was God, and publicly so. 8:42; “I am come from regarding the divinity of Christ so the Son also gives life to is greater than I” - He refers to T h e s a m e s i t u a t i o n heaven”... Jn 6:38; “I am the many people today refuse to whom He will”. Here He claims His human nature, created, and happened when He said to bread of Life” ... that comes accept this truth. Of them St. to Himself the power to do the necessarily inferior to the Magdalene, “Your sins are down from heaven...” Jn 6:45- John states simply: “no one things the Father does - divine Father. forgiven” ... and later about her: 51; “All things have been who disowns the Son has the power, including that of giving When he cured a man on “Many sins are forgiven her delivered to me by my Father” (1 John 2:23). END neighbours. “Serving means caring ... for the vulnerable of our families, our society, our people” (Homily in Havam , 20 September 2015). In this outreach, all are “called to set aside their own wishes and desires, their pursuit of power, before the concrete gaze of those who are most vulnerable. Service always looks to their faces, touches their SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, – SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021 flesh, senses their closeness and even, in some cases, ‘suffers’ that closeness and tries to help them. Service is never ideological, for we do not serve ideas, Message Of His Holiness Pope Francis for we serve people” (ibid.). 4. If a therapy is to be effective, it must have a relational aspect, for this the 29th World Day of the Sick 2021 enables a holistic approach to the patient. Emphasizing this aspect can “You have but one teacher and you are all brothers” that deny their fundamental rights (cf. help doctors, nurses, professionals and (Mt 23:8). A trust-based relationship to guide Fratelli Tutti, 22). The current volunteers to feel responsible for care for the sick p a n d e m i c h a s e x a c e r b a t e d accompanying patients on a path of inequalities in our healthcare systems healing grounded in a trusting and exposed inefficiencies in the care interpersonal relationship (cf. New Dear brothers and sisters, of the sick. Elderly, weak and Charter for Health Care Workers vulnerable people are not always [2016], 4). This creates a covenant he celebration of the XXIX granted access to care, or in an between those in need of care and those World Day of the Sick on 11 equitable manner. This is the result of who provide that care, a covenant based TFebruary 2021, the liturgical political decisions, resource on mutual trust and respect, openness memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary management and greater or lesser and availability. This will help to of Lourdes, is an opportunity to commitment on the part of those overcome defensive attitudes, respect devote special attention to the sick holding positions of responsibility. the dignity of the sick, safeguard the and to those who provide them with Investing resources in the care and professionalism of healthcare workers a s s i s t a n c e a n d c a re b o t h i n assistance of the sick is a priority and foster a good relationship with the healthcare institutions and within linked to the fundamental principle families of patients. families and communities. We think that health is a primary common good. Such a relationship with the sick in particular of those who have Yet the pandemic has also highlighted can find an unfailing source of suffered, and continue to suffer, the the dedication and generosity of motivation and strength in the charity of effects of the worldwide coronavirus healthcare personnel, volunteers, Christ, as shown by the witness of those pandemic. To all, and especially to the support staff, priests, men and women men and women who down the poor and the marginalized, I express Pope Francis religious, all of whom have helped, millennia have grown in holiness my spiritual closeness and assure treated, comforted and served so through service to the infirm. For the them of the Church’s loving concern. are ill, fear and even bewilderment can many of the sick and their families mystery of Christ’s death and 1. The theme of this Day is drawn grip our minds and hearts; we find with professionalism, self-giving, resurrection is the source of the love from the Gospel passage in which Jesus ourselves powerless, since our health responsibility and love of neighbour. criticizes the hypocrisy of those who capable of giving full meaning to the does not depend on our abilities or life’s A silent multitude of men and women, experience of patients and caregivers fail to practise what they preach (cf. Mt incessant worries (cf. Mt 6:27). they chose not to look the other way 23:1-12). When our faith is reduced to alike. The Gospel frequently makes this Sickness raises the question of but to share the suffering of patients, clear by showing that Jesus heals not by empty words, unconcerned with the life’s meaning, which we bring before whom they saw as neighbours and magic but as the result of an encounter, lives and needs of others, the creed we God in faith. In seeking a new and members of our one human family. an interpersonal relationship, in which profess proves inconsistent with the life deeper direction in our lives, we may Such closeness is a precious God’s gift finds a response in the faith of we lead. The danger is real. That is why not find an immediate answer. Nor are balm that provides support and those who accept it. As Jesus often Jesus uses strong language about the our relatives and friends always able to consolation to the sick in their peril of falling into self-idolatry. He tells help us in this demanding quest. repeats: “Your faith has saved you”. suffering. As Christians, we 5. Dear brothers and sisters, the us: “ You have but one teacher and you The biblical figure of Job is experience that closeness as a sign of commandment of love that Jesus left to are all brothers” (v. 8). emblematic in this regard. Job’s wife the love of Jesus Christ, the Good his disciples is also kept in our Jesus’ criticism of those who and friends do not accompany him in Samaritan, who draws near with relationship with the sick. A society is “preach but do not practise” (v. 3) is his misfortune; instead, they blame him compassion to every man and woman all the more human to the degree that it helpful always and everywhere, since and only aggravate his solitude and wounded by sin. United to Christ by none of us is immune to the grave evil of distress. Job feels forlorn and the working of the Holy Spirit, we are cares effectively for its most frail and hypocrisy, which prevents us from misunderstood. Yet for all his extreme called to be merciful like the Father suffering members, in a spirit of flourishing as children of the one frailty, he rejects hypocrisy and chooses and to love in particular our frail, fraternal love. Let us strive to achieve Father, called to live universal the path of honesty towards God and infirm and suffering brothers and this goal, so that no one will feel alone, fraternity. others. He cries out to God so insistently sisters (cf. Jn 13:34-35). We excluded or abandoned. Before the needs of our brothers that God finally answers him and allows experience this closeness not only as To Mary, Mother of Mercy and and sisters, Jesus asks us to respond in a him to glimpse a new horizon. He individuals but also as a community. Health of the Infirm, I entrust the sick, way completely contrary to such confirms that Job’s suffering is not a Indeed, fraternal love in Christ healthcare workers and all those who hypocrisy. He asks us to stop and listen, punishment or a state of separation from generates a community of healing, a generously assist our suffering brothers to establish a direct and personal God, much less as sign of God’s community that leaves no one behind, and sisters. From the Grotto of Lourdes relationship with others, to feel indifference. Job’s heart, wounded and a community that is inclusive and and her many other shrines throughout empathy and compassion, and to let healed, then makes this vibrant and welcoming, especially to those most the world, may she sustain our faith and their suffering become our own as we touching confession to the Lord: “I had in need. hope, and help us care for one another seek to serve them (cf. Lk 10:30-35). heard of you by word of mouth, but now Here I wish to mention the with fraternal love. To each and all, I 2. The experience of sickness my eye has seen you” (42:5). importance of fraternal solidarity, cordially impart my blessing. makes us realize our own vulnerability 3. Sickness always has more than which is expressed concretely in Rome, Saint John Lateran, 20 and our innate need of others. It makes one face: it has the face of all the sick, service and can take a variety of December 2020, us feel all the more clearly that we are but also those who feel ignored, forms, all directed at supporting our Fourth Sunday of Advent creatures dependent on God. When we excluded and prey to social injustices Franciscus

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