The Society of African Missions (SMA) recently concluded a yearlong celebration marking the 140th anniversary of the introduction of Catholicism into Ashanti. The momentous occasion, which took place on June 25th, 2023, honored the historic visit of Fr. Auguste Moreau to Mahyia Palace in 1882, where he sought permission to establish the Catholic Church in Ashanti.
The anniversary festivities encompassed a range of events and initiatives that highlighted the rich history and ongoing commitment of the SMA. Among these was a two-day academic conference held in collaboration with the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi on January 18th and 19th, 2023. Scholars and experts came together to explore the cultural and historical impact of Catholicism in Ashanti, fostering intellectual dialogue and understanding.
An unforgettable pilgrimage was also organized, retracing the path Fr. Moreau took from Elmina to Kumasi, passing through Assin Fosu. This symbolic journey allowed participants to experience firsthand the challenges and triumphs faced by early missionaries as they brought the message of Catholicism to the region.
The culmination of the anniversary events took place with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass on June 25th, 2023, at St. Paul Parish in Adukrom, Kumasi. Most Rev Joseph Osei-Bonsu, the esteemed Catholic bishop of Konongo-Mampong, presided over the Mass, which held a special significance as it coincided with the ordination of Fr. Samuel Hagan, SMA, as a priest. In his homily, Bishop Osei-Bonsu praised the SMA for their pioneering work and offered guidance to Fr. Hagan as he embarked on his pastoral journey.
Fr. Dennis Senyo Etti, SMA, the Vice-provincial of the SMA in Ghana, reflected on the mission's humble beginnings in Kumasi and paid tribute to the founding missionaries. Expressing deep gratitude for their unwavering commitment and sacrifice, Fr. Etti highlighted the immense risks taken by European missionaries who left behind comfortable lives to serve in Ghana. Their dedication and missionary zeal paved the way for the establishment of the SMA and the subsequent growth of six dioceses in Ghana.
Fr. Etti also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the people of the Asante State (Ashanti Region) for their unwavering support and acceptance of the Catholic faith since its introduction in 1882. The SMA has formed a deep bond with the community, and Fr. Etti acknowledged the generosity of successive kings in ensuring the firm establishment of the SMA and the Catholic Church in Ashanti.
Looking towards the future, Fr. Etti emphasized that the mission of the SMA continues even after 140 years. As a testament to their ongoing commitment, the SMA initiated a special project to mark their presence in Ashanti: the construction of a health facility, specifically a clinic, in the outskirts of Kumasi in a town called Akokoamong. The clinic aims to provide essential healthcare services to the community, aligning with the SMA's ethos of compassion and service.
The SMA launched the project as part of the commemoration, with Fr. Etti leading the initiative. He expressed gratitude to the chiefs and people of Akokoamong for generously offering the land for the clinic. However, he also called for support from the wider community, urging both material contributions and prayers to ensure the successful construction and operation of the clinic.
Presently, the SMA province in Ghana proudly boasts 33 priests serving in various parts of the world. The leadership team, consisting of Fr. Paul Ennin as provincial superior, Fr. Dennis Senyo Etti as Vice Provincial, and Fr. Junior Biro as Councilor, remains dedicated to upholding the mission of the SMA and spreading the Catholic faith to all corners of the globe.
As the Society of African Missions celebrates its remarkable history and looks ahead to the future, it continues to leave an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals, embodying the spirit of service and devotion that has defined the SMA for 140 years.
By Dominic Wabwireh,SMA
