Feast of the Knights of St. John International and Ladies Auxiliary

Homily by Bishop John Kobina Louis

Memorial of the Passion of St. John the Baptist -- 29 August 2026
Readings: 1 Corinthians 1:26--31; Mark 6:17--29
Venue: Madina, Accra

Dear Knights of St. John International and Ladies Auxiliary,
Brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather not merely to celebrate a feast. We gather to renew a mission.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Accra has given us a challenging theme for 2026: “Sent to Witness: Living the Gospel Every Day.”

And the theme is drawn from the words of Jesus: **”Let your light so shine before others, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (**Matthew 5:16).

The word “sent” reminds us that Christianity is not a spectator sport. We are not baptised merely to come to Mass, receive the Eucharist, wear our uniforms, attend meetings and celebrate our patron saints. We are sent.

We are sent into our homes, workplaces, communities, schools, institutions, as well as our political, social and professional environments.

And today, the Church places before us one of the greatest witnesses in the history of salvation: St. John the Baptist. As Knights and Ladies of St. John, therefore, his life gives us a powerful model for living our Archdiocesan theme.

1. LIVE FOR A PURPOSE GREATER THAN YOURSELF

St. John knew why he had been born. His mission was announced even before his birth. He was to prepare the way for the Lord. His entire life was therefore directed towards Christ.

John could have sought popularity, comfort and personal recognition. Instead, he chose a life of simplicity, sacrifice and service.

This is beautifully connected with St. Paul’s message in today’s first reading: “Consider your call, brothers and sisters...” (1 Corinthians 1:26).

St. Paul reminds the Corinthians that God does not necessarily choose the powerful, famous or influential according to worldly standards. God chooses ordinary people and gives them extraordinary missions.

Dear Knights and Ladies, you too have a calling. Your membership in the Knights of St. John is not merely an association. It is not simply a uniform. It is not merely a social identity. It is a vocation to Christian witness.

The question is not only, “What do I receive from being a Knight or Lady?” The deeper question is: “What does God want to accomplish through me?”

Every day, ask yourself: Where is God sending me today? Whom does He want me to encourage? Whom does He want me to help? Whom does He want me to bring closer to Christ?

2. BE A WITNESS TO CHRIST, NOT TO YOURSELF

One of the most beautiful things about John the Baptist is that he never made himself the centre of his ministry. His message was always about Christ:

• He was the voice; Christ was the Word.
  He was the servant; Christ was the Lord.
  He was the lamp; Christ was the Light.

John understood that his greatness consisted in pointing people towards Jesus. This is an important lesson for every Christian organisation.

The Knights of St. John must never become primarily about the Knights. The Ladies Auxiliary must never become primarily about the Ladies.

Our meetings, uniforms, ceremonies, titles, ranks, achievements and celebrations must ultimately point beyond ourselves to Jesus Christ.

A Knight should be able to say: “Look at Christ through my life.”

A Lady should be able to say: “Encounter Christ through my words, my charity and my example.”

That is what it means to witness.

3. HAVE THE COURAGE TO SPEAK THE TRUTH

Today’s Gospel presents us with the most dramatic dimension of John’s witness. John confronted Herod because Herod had taken Herodias, his brother’s wife. John did not say, “Let us keep quiet because Herod is powerful.” He did not say, “Let us compromise because speaking the truth could cost me my life.” He did not say, “Let us wait until the political situation improves.”

John simply declared: “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife” (Mark 6:18). That sentence eventually cost him his freedom and his life.

Brothers and sisters, Christian witness requires courage. There are times when the Gospel will make us unpopular. There are times when telling the truth will cost us friendships. There are times when defending Christian morality will make us appear old-fashioned. There are times when standing for justice will cost us opportunities. There are times when refusing corruption may mean losing money. There are times when saying “No” to dishonesty may make us the odd person in the room.

But the Christian cannot ask only: “What is convenient?” We must also ask: “What is right?”

John teaches us that faithfulness to God is more important than favour with powerful people.

Dear Knights and Ladies, may God give you the courage to speak the truth respectfully, defend the vulnerable, resist corruption, reject injustice and stand for what is morally right --- even when it is difficult.

4. LIVE THE GOSPEL IN YOUR FAMILY AND MARRIAGE

There is another important dimension to today’s Gospel. John’s confrontation with Herod concerned marriage and moral integrity. This is particularly significant for us today.

If we are truly sent to witness, our first mission field is often our own home. What does our spouse see in us? What do our children learn from us?

• Do they see forgiveness?

• Do they see fidelity?

• Do they see prayer?

• Do they see honesty?

• Do they see respect?

• Do they see a Christian who goes to Mass on Sunday but behaves very differently from Monday to Saturday?

Our theme says: “Living the Gospel Every Day.” Not only on Sunday. Not only when wearing our uniforms. Not only during the feast of St. John the Baptist. Every day.

The Gospel must enter our marriages, our parenting, our finances, our friendships, our workplaces and our private decisions.

Our homes must become the first churches in which our families encounter Christ.

5. DO NOT SELL YOUR CONSCIENCE FOR POSITION, MONEY OR POWER

The tragedy of Herod is that he knew John was a righteous man. St. Mark tells us that Herod “feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him.”

Yet Herod eventually allowed his conscience to be defeated by pride, pressure and the desire to impress others.

He made a childish promise because he wanted to please the people around him. And then, rather than admit his mistake, he sacrificed an innocent man. What a powerful warning!

Sometimes the greatest danger is not that we do not know what is right. The danger is that we know what is right but lack the courage to do it.

A Christian must have a conscience that cannot be bought.

Never sell your integrity for money.
Never sell your principles for a position.
Never sell your faith for popularity.
Never exchange eternal values for temporary benefits.

St. John died with his conscience intact. May we live with consciences that are clean before God.

6. SERVE WITH HUMILITY, BECAUSE ALL GLORY BELONGS TO GOD

The first reading gives us another profound lesson: “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:31).

John had every reason to become proud. Crowds came to hear him. People travelled great distances to receive his baptism. He was a powerful preacher. He was respected by many. But John knew that his greatness came from God.

His life can therefore be summarised in one sentence: “He [Christ] must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). What a motto for the Knights and Ladies!

• As you rise in rank, let Christ increase.

• As you receive honours, let Christ increase.

• As your organisation grows, let Christ increase.

• As you acquire influence in society, let Christ increase.

• As people praise you, let Christ increase.

The greatest Knight is not the one who wears the most impressive uniform. The greatest Lady is not the one who holds the highest position. The greatest Christian is the one whose life makes Christ more visible.

7. BE PREPARED TO SACRIFICE FOR THE GOSPEL

Finally, St. John teaches us that authentic witness can involve sacrifice. John’s witness did not end with applause. It ended in a prison cell. It ended with his beheading. It ended with his blood being shed because he remained faithful to God’s truth. This is why the Church honours him today.

John teaches us that a witness is someone who remains faithful even when faithfulness becomes costly. The word martyr means witness.

John’s death therefore became the final testimony of his life. Dear Knights and Ladies, we may never be called to shed our blood for Christ. But every day we are invited to make smaller sacrifices:

• The sacrifice of forgiveness.

• The sacrifice of honesty.

• The sacrifice of patience.

• The sacrifice of generosity.

• The sacrifice of time.

• The sacrifice of serving others without recognition.

• The sacrifice of refusing corruption.

• The sacrifice of fidelity in marriage.

• The sacrifice of helping someone who cannot repay us.

• The sacrifice of choosing Christ when the world tells us to choose ourselves.

This is how we live the Gospel every day.

CONCLUSION: GO AND LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE

Dear brothers and sisters, today St. John the Baptist stands before us as a man who understood his mission. He was sent to prepare the way for Christ. He lived for Christ. He spoke for Christ. He suffered for Christ. And ultimately, he gave his life for the truth of Christ.

The Archdiocesan theme tells us: “Sent to Witness: Living the Gospel Every Day.”

St. John tells us how:

• Know your mission.
  Point people to Christ.
  Speak the truth.
  Defend what is right.
  Protect the dignity of marriage and family life.
  Keep your conscience clean.
  Serve with humility.
  And be prepared to sacrifice for the Gospel.

My dear Knights and Ladies, Our Church needs your witness. Ghana needs your witness. Our families need your witness.

May the intercession of St. John the Baptist, your patron, obtain for every Knight and every Lady the courage to live the Gospel faithfully.

May your uniforms identify you as Knights and Ladies, but may your lives identify you as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Knights of St. John International and Ladies Auxiliary, go forth and witness!

Go forth and let your light shine!

Go forth and live the Gospel every day!

Amen.

Readings: Jeremiah 20:7-9; Romans 12:1-2; Matthew 16:21-28

INTRODUCTION

Beloved in Christ, there are moments in life when we sincerely ask: “Lord, why this way?” Why must I pass through this suffering? Why has God allowed this disappointment? Why am I experiencing opposition when I am trying to do what is right?

Today’s readings give us a profound answer: God’s way is not always the way we would choose. Sometimes, God’s way is “the Way of the Cross.”

1. GOD’S WAYS ARE NOT OUR WAYS

The prophet Isaiah reminds us that God’s ways are beyond our ways:

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord” (Isaiah 55:8).

The prophet Jeremiah experienced this mystery painfully. In today’s first reading, Jeremiah is frustrated. He has faithfully proclaimed God’s word, yet instead of receiving appreciation from his people, he encounters ridicule, opposition, and persecution. He feels deceived and overwhelmed.

He cries out: “O Lord, you have enticed me, and I was enticed” (Jeremiah 20:7). Jeremiah is essentially saying: “Lord, I answered your call. I did what you wanted. But look at what has happened to me!”

How many of us can identify with Jeremiah? We prayed. We trusted God. We tried to do the right thing. Yet things became more difficult.

Similarly, in the gospel reading, the Apostle Peter cannot accept the fact that our Lord Jesus would be crucified. So, he takes Jesus aside and says: “God forbid, Lord! This shall never happen to you” (Matthew 16:22).

Peter loves Jesus, but Peter wants to love Him according to Peter’s way, not according to God’s way.

Jesus therefore gives Peter a strong rebuke: “Get behind me, Satan!” (Matthew 16:23). Why such strong words? Because Peter’s proposal sounded loving, but it was actually tempting Jesus away from the Father’s will.

2. THE CROSS IS GOD’S WAY FOR JESUS

Jesus says: “He must go to Jerusalem and suffer greatly and be killed, and on the third day be raised” (Matthew 16:21). Notice the word “must.” Jesus was not a helpless victim caught in an unfortunate chain of events. He was freely embracing the Father’s saving plan.

The Cross was not an accident in the life of Jesus. It was part of His mission. Jesus came into the world not merely to teach us how to live; He came to save us. And salvation would come through the Cross.

Jesus knew that His mission would involve suffering, rejection, sacrifice, and death. Yet He did not run away. That is why the Christian must never look at the Cross merely as an instrument of torture. The Cross is also the altar upon which Christ offered Himself in love for the salvation of the world.

Jesus transforms the meaning of suffering. He shows us that when suffering is united with love and obedience to God, it can become redemptive.

3. THE CROSS IS GOD’S WAY FOR OUR PERSONAL LIFE

Jesus does not merely say that He must carry the Cross. He says that we must carry ours. He declares: “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24).

Christianity is not simply believing in Jesus. It is following Jesus. And following Jesus means walking behind Him, even when the road leads through Calvary.

Every one of us has a cross. For one person, it may be illness or old age. For another, a difficult marriage. For another, unemployment or financial hardship. For another, loneliness. For another, caring for an elderly parent or a sick family member. For another, persecution because of faith. And sometimes our cross is simply the daily discipline of saying “No” to sin and “Yes” to God.

The Cross may be costly, but Jesus promises that it is not meaningless. He says: “Those who lose their life for my sake will find it.”

What a paradox! The world says: Save yourself. Jesus says: Lose yourself in love, and you will find yourself.

The world says: Hold on to everything. Jesus says: Give yourself, and you will discover true life.

And Jesus asks a question that should alert every Christian conscience: “What will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life?”

4. CONFORM NOT TO THIS WORLD BUT TO GOD’S WILL

This brings us directly to Saint Paul’s message in Romans 12: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God: what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

The world has a way. God has a way. The world says: “Revenge.” Jesus says: “Forgive.” The world says: “Seek recognition.” Jesus says: “Serve in humility.” The world says: “Acquire more.” Jesus says: “Give to those in need.” And so on.

Saint Paul therefore urges us not to allow the mentality of the world to shape our hearts, because if the world determines our values, we will eventually reject the Cross.

But if Christ renews our minds, we will begin to see differently. We will see suffering differently. We will see service differently. We will see sacrifice differently. We will see forgiveness differently. We will see even our trials differently.

We will begin to ask not merely: “Lord, why is this happening to me?” but: “Lord, what are you asking me to learn through this?”

Not merely: “Lord, take away my Cross,” but also: “Lord, give me the grace to carry it faithfully.” That is Christian maturity.

CONCLUSION

Beloved, the Cross is not God’s mistake. The Cross is God’s way.

And when God’s way seems difficult, remember: His ways are higher than our ways.

When God’s plan seems foolish, remember: The Cross is God’s wisdom and power.

When your Cross seems unbearable, remember: Jesus is walking with you.

And when you are tempted to give up, remember: Calvary is not the final destination. Easter is.

May Christ crucified give us courage to carry our crosses, wisdom to understand God’s ways, strength to resist the ways of the world, and grace to follow Him faithfully until we share in the glory of His Resurrection.

Amen.

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

ST. AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE FEAST DAY MASS AT HOLY SPIRIT CATHEDRAL, ACCRA, ON FRIDAY 22ND AUGUST, 2026

HOMILY BY BISHOP JOHN KOBINA LOUIS

INTRODUCTION

Dear APSUnians, I wish you all a happy feast of St. Augustine of Hippo, the trans-millennial distinguished patron saint of our Alma Mater, St. Augustine’s College, Cape Coast.

Today, I wish to share with you the thoughts of St. Augustine on the day’s readings: 1 Corinthians 1:17--25 and Matthew 25:1--13.

A) BRIEF HISTORAL FACTS ABOUT ST. AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO

Birth: 354AD in Thagaste (Algeria)

Teaching: At age 30, he was a Professor of Philosophical Rhetoric in Milan.

Conversion: At age 32.

Priesthood: Ordained at 37 in Hippo (Algeria).

Episcopacy: Ordained as Bishop in Hippo at age 41. He would spend the remaining 35 years of life shepherding his flock with humility, holiness and excellence in teaching.

Death: 28^th^ August, 430

Impact: His excellence in philosophy, Catholic theology and doctrine continues to influence Church teachings. He is one of the few Doctors of the Church.

B) 1 CORINTHIANS 1:17--25

St. Augustine of Hippo reflected on several parts of 1 Corinthians 1:17--25, especially the apparent paradox that the Cross, which the world regards as foolishness and weakness, is actually the wisdom and power of God.

It is important, however, to clarify that St. Augustine does not appear to have left a single continuous sermon devoted exclusively to 1 Corinthians 1:17--25. His interpretation of the passage is scattered through works such as On Christian Doctrine, The City of God, On Nature and Grace, etc.

His thoughts on this passage could be summarized like this:

We were too weak to climb up to God, so God came down to us. We were blinded by pride, so Divine Wisdom appeared in humility. We were enslaved by death, so Life entered death. We thought the Cross was defeat, but God made it the instrument of victory. We thought Christ was weak, but through that apparent weakness He conquered sin, death and the devil.

This has a powerful implication for Christian preaching: the preacher must not be ashamed of the Cross. The Gospel does not need to be made impressive by worldly standards. Its power lies in Christ Himself.

C) MATTHEW 25:1--13

Unlike the first reading, St. Augustine has a very substantial sermon specifically on Matthew 25:1--13, the parable of the Ten Virgins. It is generally known as Sermon 43 on the New Testament in the numbering of the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers collection, and as Sermon 93 in the Benedictine/modern numbering.

Here are the principal points of Augustine’s interpretation.

1. The ten virgins represent the whole Church

St. Augustine writes: “This parable relates to us all, that is, to the whole Church together.”

He then identifies the ten virgins as Christian souls who possess the true faith and appear to have good works, but among whom there are both wise and foolish Christians.

2. Why are they called “virgins”?

St. Augustine gives a symbolic interpretation of the number five. Every human soul experiences the world through five bodily senses: sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch.

Thus, for St. Augustine, the “virginity” of the Christian symbolizes purity of life ---particularly the disciplined use of the senses.

3. The lamp represents good works

St. Augustine understands the lamp as something visible in the Christian life.

A person may possess the lamp of good works, a Christian profession, participation in the Church and an outward appearance of faith.

But the question is: Is there oil in the lamp?

4. What does the oil represent?

This is perhaps the heart of St. Augustine’s interpretation.

The oil is associated with love/charity, the grace of God working within the heart, and the good that must accompany faith.

St. Augustine points out that the foolish virgins have lamps, but they lack oil “in their vessels,” that is, within themselves. The vessel, for him, represents the heart.

This is extremely important.

The Christian life cannot be sustained merely by external religious practice. There must be something within the heart.

5. Faith without love is not enough

St. Augustine’s interpretation can be connected with one of his great theological principles: faith must work through love (cf. James 2:14-18).

The foolish virgins are not atheists.

They are not outsiders.

They are virgins.

They have lamps.

They are waiting for Christ.

They even call Him “Lord, Lord.”

Yet they are unprepared.

The lesson is therefore frighteningly relevant: It is possible to be a Christian and yet spiritually unprepared.

6. The Bridegroom is Christ

For St. Augustine, the Bridegroom is obviously Christ, and the Church is awaiting His coming.

The delay of the Bridegroom represents the apparent delay before Christ’s return.

St. Augustine sees this as an important test of Christian perseverance.

7. “They all slumbered and slept”

One of the most interesting aspects of St. Augustine’s sermon is that both the wise and foolish virgins fall asleep.

He does not interpret the sleep simply as sin. Rather, it points toward the common human condition and, ultimately, death.

When the cry comes, “Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!”, both the wise and foolish virgins arise.

St. Augustine connects this with the resurrection of the dead and the final judgment.

8. The foolish virgins cannot borrow the oil

This is one of St. Augustine’s most powerful pastoral lessons.

When the foolish virgins realize that their lamps are going out, they ask the wise virgins for oil. But the wise answer that there may not be enough for both and tell them to go and buy some.

St. Augustine asks, in effect: Why can’t the wise simply give them some?

Because some things cannot be transferred from one person to another at the moment of judgment.

You cannot borrow another person’s holiness, charity, relationship with God, perseverance, personal conversion, etc.

Each person must have the oil in his or her own vessel.

9. “I know you not”

The final words are perhaps the most terrifying: “I know you not.”

St. Augustine takes this seriously.

The foolish virgins call Jesus “Lord.” They expect to enter. But He says that He does not know them.

St. Augustine explains that Christ does not recognize them as belonging to Him in the manner that matters eternally.

So, external association with Christ is insufficient. Christ must know us --- and we must truly belong to Him.

10. St. Augustine’s great pastoral warning

The deepest message of the sermon is therefore: Do not wait until the Bridegroom comes to begin preparing your lamp.

We know that Christ will come. But, we do not know when.

Therefore, let us prepare now!

Because when the cry comes, there will be no time to begin acquiring the oil.

CONCLUSION

Let us sum up St. Augustine’s thoughts on the two readings. The Supremely Wise Creator has creatively recycled the Cross, the cruel device of humiliation and death, into the instrument of salvation. Faith in this salvation is like having a lamp to await Christ’s return. This though is not sufficient. So, let us have also the extra oil of love and grace in our vessels (hearts) until He returns.

Amen!

READINGS: Isaiah 22:19-23/ Romans 11:33-36 / Matthew 16:13-20

According to today’s gospel reading, Jesus Christ said that He would build His Church (Matt. 16:18). This homily reflects on four of the key points concerning the building of the Church:

1. Jesus is the Founder of the Church, and it belongs to Him

2. Jesus builds His Church on the faith confessed by St. Peter

3. Jesus chooses human leaders to ensure the passing on of the Church’s founding faith

4. The Church is a sure Gate to Heaven

1. Jesus is the Founder of the Church and it belongs to Him

In saying that, ‘I will build My Church’ (Matt. 16:18), Jesus Christ makes it clear that He is the Founder of the Church, and it belongs to Him. And because this ‘one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church’ (Nicene Creed) belongs to Christ, who is divine and almighty, ‘the gates of hell shall not prevail over it’ (Matt. 16:18). Therefore, until Christ comes again, all the direct and indirect attacks of the evil one can only scratch the surface (external aspects) of the Church. That is why the ‘one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church’ has stood firm on its rock-foundation for 2,000 years, despite the persecutions, blasphemies, and other attacks. Indeed, ‘if God is for us, who can be against us?’ (Rom. 8:31). Beloved, with Christ, the Son of God, on our side we are counted among the ultimate winners!

2. Jesus builds His Church on the faith confessed by St. Peter

According to the gospel reading, Jesus asked His disciples, ‘Who do the people say I am?’ and ‘Who do you say I am?’ By asking these questions, Jesus led His disciples to know His true identity and to confess it. It was St. Peter who got the answer right to the question about Jesus’ identity: ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God’ (Matt. 16:16).

It is this faith in Jesus (as being both the Christ and the Son of God) which is the rock on which He has built His Church. In other words, the foundation of the Church is faith in Jesus as the expected Messiah who is, at the same time, the Son of God. Therefore, beloved, if anyone should preach that there is another saviour of the world, he/she is not worthy of being listened to. And should someone else preach that Jesus Christ is not the only begotten Son of God, he/she is an anti-Christ, and he/she must be ignored (cf. 1 John 2:18,22).

3. Jesus chooses human leaders to ensure the passing on of the Church’s founding faith

Until Jesus Christ, the divine Head of the Church, comes again in glory, the Church’s founding faith has to be faithfully passed on from one generation to another. To ensure this, Christ appoints human leaders, beginning with St. Peter, as instruments of the Holy Spirit. Jesus appointed St. Peter, because our heavenly Father manifested His choice by revealing His Son’s identity through Peter (cf. Matt. 16:17). The appointment goes with an awesome authority: ‘I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven’ (Matt. 16:19). This great authority is, however, for service. St. Peter and his successors (the popes), as instruments of the Holy Spirit and servants of Christ, are to be at the service of the divine Persons for the salvation of souls. Beloved, since the all-holy Lord is our ultimate Head, let us serve Him in holiness.

4. The Church is a sure Gate to Heaven

The Church is not a social club of good people. In other words, Christ did not establish the Church with the sole aim of promoting good human existence on this earth. Rather, the Church has, first and foremost, a spiritual goal: the eternal life of souls. The Church is a sign and an instrument by which God brings humans into communion with Him in heaven. Thus, the Church could be described simply as a sure gate to heaven. Hence, St. Peter, whom the Lord made the leader of the Church, was entrusted with the keys of the Church as the gate of heaven. That is, through the ministry of St. Peter and the other apostles and disciples, many would receive from God the grace to enter heaven. So, beloved, though unlike St. Peter, we have not been given the keys of the kingdom of heaven, we have roles to play for more souls to enter the kingdom of heaven. Our roles include witnessing to our faith through words and deeds, as well as teaching and encouraging others to seek Christ.

Conclusion

Beloved, Jesus is the Founder of the Church. Indeed, the Church belongs to Him and not to any human leader. Our faith should, therefore, not be in any human leader, but in only Jesus, who, as St. Peter confessed, is not just a human Messiah but the very Son of the Living God. However, human leaders are necessary to ensure the faithful passing on of the faith expressed by St. Peter; and so Jesus chooses them to guide the Church, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Finally, Jesus has made the Church a sure gate to heaven, i.e. an instrument by which people will receive the grace to enter heaven. By witnessing to our faith through words and deeds, and by teaching and encouraging others to seek Christ may the Holy Spirit lead us and many other souls into Paradise. Amen!

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: Isaiah 56:1, 6–7/ Romans 11:13-15,29-32/ Matthew 15:21–28

INTRODUCTION

Is there something you have prayed for a long time and yet have not received an answer? Are other people praying for your intention, yet no answer? Is your situation getting worse despite your prayers? Do you feel that your prayer is not being answered because some sins in your past have made you unworthy?

Then you can identify with the Canaanite woman in today’s Gospel reading. The happy ending of her story should give you hope. She teaches us that prayer should be accompanied by certain virtues. Four virtues stand out: faith, perseverance, humility and patience.

1. FAITH

The first virtue that should accompany our prayers is faith. The Letter to the Hebrews tells us: “Without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6).

The Canaanite woman approached Jesus believing that He could do what nobody else could do. Her daughter was severely tormented, but she believed that Jesus had the power to heal her. Jesus would eventually declare the quality of her faith: “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish” (Matthew 15:28).

Faith does not mean believing that God will give us everything we ask for exactly when we ask for it. Faith means believing that God is good, God is faithful and God knows what is best, even when we cannot understand what He is doing.

When you pray, therefore, pray with faith. Say to the Lord: “Lord, I do not know when You will answer me, but I know that You love me.”

“Lord, I do not understand my situation, but I trust You.”

“Lord, I cannot see the way forward, but I believe that You can make a way.”

That is faith!

2. PERSEVERANCE

The second virtue is perseverance. The Canaanite woman refused to give up. The Gospel of Matthew tells us that when she initially cried out to Jesus, “He did not answer her at all” (Matthew 15:23).

Imagine that! She prayed, and Jesus appeared silent. She cried again, but there was no immediate answer. Then the disciples said: “Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us” (Matthew 15:23). But she did not go away. Jesus then spoke words that could have discouraged her even more: “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 15:24). Yet she knelt before Him and pleaded: “Lord, help me” (Matthew 15:25). What perseverance!

Sometimes the greatest test of prayer is not opposition but silence. You pray and nothing seems to happen. You pray for healing, but the sickness remains. You pray for your marriage, but the problems continue. You pray for employment, but the doors remain closed. You pray for a particular intention year after year, and you wonder: “Does God hear me?”

The Canaanite woman answers: Keep praying! Jesus Himself teaches us to “pray always and not to lose heart” (Luke 18:1). Do not allow delayed answers to become dead prayers. Sometimes the prayer that seems unanswered is the prayer that is preparing us for a greater grace.

3. HUMILITY

The third virtue is humility. When Jesus told the woman: “It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs” (Matthew 15:26), she did not become angry. She did not insult Jesus. She did not say, “How dare you speak to me like that!”

Instead, she humbly responded: “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table” (Matthew 15:27). Her humility is extraordinary.

She did not claim entitlement. She simply appealed to the Lord’s mercy. That is how we should approach God. Prayer is not placing God under an obligation. Prayer is not telling God what He must do.

Perhaps some of us find our prayers unanswered because we are trying to control God rather than trust Him. We tell Him exactly what He must do, when He must do it and how He must do it. But genuine prayer begins when we can say: “Thy will be done.”

The Canaanite woman teaches us that humility does not mean giving up our request. It means placing our request in the hands of God while acknowledging that He is Almighty.

4. PATIENCE

The fourth virtue is patience. The Canaanite woman waited patiently until Jesus healed her daughter. She did not receive an immediate answer. She had to endure silence, what felt like rejection and testing. Yet she remained at the feet of Jesus until her prayer was answered.

Finally, ‘Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed instantly’ (Matthew 15:28).

We live in an age of instant gratification. We want instant messages, instant food, instant money and instant solutions. Unfortunately, some people bring the same mentality into prayer. But God is not an instant-service provider. Sometimes God answers immediately, but more often than not He answers gradually.

Sometimes He answers differently from what we expected. And sometimes He seems to remain silent. But God’s silence does not mean God’s absence.

The farmer does not plant today and expect a harvest tomorrow. There is a time for sowing, a time for growing and a time for harvesting. Similarly, prayer requires patience. The prophet Isaiah says: “Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:31).

Waiting on God is not wasted time. Waiting can be an act of faith. While we wait, God may be changing our circumstances — or He may be changing us.

CONCLUSION

Beloved in Christ, the Canaanite woman began her story with a desperate cry: “Have mercy on me, Lord!” She ended it with a miracle. Between the cry and the miracle there was faith, perseverance, humility and patience. That is the message for us today.

If your prayer has not yet been answered, do not lose faith.

If God seems silent, persevere.

If you are tempted to tell God what He must do, remain humble.

If the answer is delayed, be patient.

And, eventually like the Canaanite woman, the Lord would answer you!

Amen.

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: Isaiah 56:1, 6-7 / Romans 11:13-15, 29-32/ Matthew 15:21-28

God desires to save all men, women, and children (cf. 1 Tim. 2:4). That is, the offer of God’s salvation in Jesus Christ is for all. Access to this offer of salvation is through faith in God and obedience to Him. This is a message which runs through the three readings of today.

The experiences of the Jews while in exile in Babylon and of how God delivered them and brought them back to their land changed their perspective on an aspect of God’s salvation – namely, that God’s salvation is not limited to a particular people. One of their experiences was the fact that the gentile king of Babylon praised God of Israel when He delivered the three young Jews from the fiery furnace. The gentile king acknowledged that God is almighty, and he decreed that all the peoples of the nations in his empire should revere the God. (Daniel 3:91-100). Another experience was that God delivered the Jews from exile through Cyrus, the gentile King of Babylon; and God used this gentile King to facilitate the rebuilding of the Temple of Jerusalem (Ezra 1:1-11).

With such experiences, God inspired the Jews to come to the realization that His salvation is offered to peoples of all nations and races who have faith in Him and obey Him. Thus, when the Jews had returned from exile, the prophet proclaimed to them: “Thus says the Lord: ‘Keep justice, and do righteousness, for soon my salvation will come …. Let not the foreigner who has joined himself to the Lord say, the Lord will surely separate me from his people…. And the foreigners who join themselves to the Lord, to minister to him, to love the name of the Lord, and to be his servants … these I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer …’” (Isaiah 56:1-7, RSV; first reading).

Faith was what led the foreigners of old to join the Jews to worship the Living God and to keep His commandments. They believed that He is the Creator-God, the only Living God. Therefore, for the ailing daughter of the Canaanite woman (a foreigner) to experience healing or salvation, she who was making the request had to express faith in God. Hence, Jesus engaged the woman in a dialogue that gradually led her to express great faith in God. Once this was achieved, her daughter was healed: “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire. And her daughter was healed instantly” (Matt. 15:28). Today’s gospel reading is, therefore, not about the restriction of Jesus’ ministry or mission to only Jews. On the contrary, it speaks of the fact that God’s salvation in Jesus is for all who have faith in Him.

Consider this: most of us are not descendants of Abraham by natural blood. However, by faith, we have become the children of Abraham, the Father of Faith (cf. second reading). In other words, by faith the door of salvation in Jesus has been opened to us. But like the foreigners of old who, besides believing in God, obeyed Him or His commandments, so good works should accompany our faith in the Lord.

Furthermore, the first reading speaks of God hearing the prayers of both the faithful Jews and the believing foreigners in the Temple (His house of prayer). In the New Testament, Jesus is the new Temple (remember: He said that destroy the Temple and I will rebuild it in three days, while referring to His death and resurrection, John 2:19-21). It is, therefore, in and through Jesus (the new Temple) that the Father hears our prayers.

Another lesson: as the request of the Canaanite woman was not answered at the first instance, but she was eventually answered because she persevered, so we need to persevere in prayers. Are you persevering in prayer, yet things are getting worse? Do not give up, for your answer may be one more ‘prayer’ away! Remember, the Canaanite woman’s plight was getting worse and worse, but she did not give up until she was answered: firstly, Jesus was silent; secondly, she was told she did not qualify (for she was not part of the house of Israel); and thirdly, she seemed to have been referred to as a dog.

Beloved, if the Lord seems to be silent, continue to pray. If after a period of no answer to your prayers, your sins make you feel that, after all, you are not worthy to ask God for favours, turn your guilty feelings into confession, and pray the more! And if your situation is still getting worse, pray with more intensity! And soon the Lord will answer you: “O woman [or man], great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire”!

Beloved, let us sum up this homily in the following five points: firstly, God desires all of us to be saved. Secondly, we have access to His salvation by faith and obedience to Him. Thirdly, God hears the prayers of all who approach Him with faith and obedient hearts. Fourthly, a seemingly delay to our prayers is a call to perseverance and to grow our faith. Finally, a prayer of faith and perseverance will eventually be answered. Amen!

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6,10/ 1 Corinthians 15:20-27/ Luke 1:39-56

Introduction

As Catholics, we believe that at the end of the sinless earthly life of Mother Mary, she was taken up, body and soul, into heaven.

History

Some early Christians witnessed the death of Mother Mary, as well as the mysterious “disappearance” of her body after her burial. Hence, early Christian oral tradition passed on the event of her assumption into heaven. For instance, St. Juvenal, Bishop of Jerusalem, at the Council of Chalcedon (451), made known to the Emperor Marcian and his wife, Pulcheria, who wished to possess the body of the Mother of God, that Mary died in the presence of all the Apostles, but that her tomb, when opened upon the request of St. Thomas, was found empty; wherefrom the Apostles concluded that the body was taken up to heaven.

Subsequently, the teaching or doctrine of the assumption of Mary developed in the Church for centuries. However, in the 20^th century, in the wake of the so-called Enlightenment some scholars questioned the usefulness of religion in general and Christianity in particular. In this light, they raised doubts about some doctrines of the Church. In response to this, Pope Pius XII, reaffirmed, among other things, our belief in the assumption of Mary.

Dogma

On 1^st November, 1950, Pope Pius XII solemnly declared: “the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever-Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.”

Entrance into Heaven

Many of us know how special our beloved mothers are to us, and we would like to share with them the glory or honour of our earthly achievements. If that is the case, why would Jesus, in His heavenly glory, not bless His most beloved mother, Mary, with a place in heaven – as He has promised to all who believe in the Father and in Him (John 14:1-4)? Indeed, Jesus has given His mother the most special place in heaven as Queen.

Why honour her so much? Because she was full of grace (as announced by Angel Gabriel: Luke 1:28), her faith in God was extraordinary (as Elizabeth testified to: Luke 1:45), she has become the mother of the Son of God (cf. Luke 1:31; 2:6-7), she remained faithful to God and sinless throughout her earthly life, etc.

Assumption not visible

According to Acts 1, the eleven disciples witnessed the ascension of Jesus. Why, then, should we believe in the assumption of Mary since the Bible does not explicitly state it? Now, for the sake of illustration: we may not be aware that someone had the visa and ticket to travel. However, if we meet him/her abroad, we cannot deny the fact that he/she has travelled there. Similarly, though the Bible has no record of the actual moment of Mary’s assumption, today’s first reading describes her glorious presence in heaven as a woman wearing a crown of twelve stars who gave birth to the Saviour of the world (Rev. 12:1-5). Furthermore, do we not believe that St. Peter, St. John, St. James and the rest of the apostles are in heaven, though the Bible does not talk about the moments when they entered heaven?

Taken up body and soul

Someone may believe that Mary is in heaven but may doubt that she was assumed body and soul into heaven. Now, the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23). So, sin is the cause of the perishability of our body. Mother Mary, on the other hand, was sinless, full of grace, and she carried in her body the very Son of God. Thus, even before Jesus was born as man, Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, would call Mary, “the mother of my Lord” (Luke 1:43).

It, therefore, follows that the body of the sinless Mother of our Lord could not perish in the dust of the earth. And so, our Lord would assume her body and soul into heaven. Furthermore, the Bible tells us of the unique transitions of Enoch (Gen. 5:24) and Elijah (2 Kings 2:11). If the Lord has thus favoured some of His servants, we should not think that the assumption into heaven of His most faithful servant is incredible.

Some Lessons from Mary’s Assumption:

1. Our Hope

By granting Mother Mary the glory of heaven, God gives us the hope that, in view of Jesus’ death, resurrection and ascension, we shall also enjoy the glory of heaven if we remain faithful to Him. Let, therefore, confess our sins and strive with God’s grace to remain faithful to the end.

2. Our Comfort

As we journey through this earthly life, especially in difficult times, the fact that Mother Mary, though human, is enjoying heavenly glory should be a great source of comfort for us.

3. Trust in Mary’s Intercession

Mother Mary, who now ceaselessly beholds God in His heavenly majesty, is best placed to seek God’s grace, mercy and other blessings for us. Let us, therefore, constantly rely on her powerful intercession.

Conclusion

Finally, for many young Africans, Europe and America are dreamlands. So, after they have secured a stay there, they take their parents also there. Similarly, Jesus, having returned to His glorious heaven, came for His Mother. At the pleasure of our Lord and through the intercession of His Mother, may we also enter the glorious places which He has prepared for us in His Father’s house. Amen!

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: 1 Kings 19:9, 11-13 / Romans 9:1-5/ Matthew 14:22-33

On the 24^th of June, 2020, there was a minor earthquake which was felt in some towns and villages along the coast of Ghana and in other parts of Africa. Soon after the quake, I shared Psalm 46 with friends on WhatsApp. Portions of the Psalm reads:

¹ God is our refuge and strength,
A very present help in trouble.
² Therefore we will not fear,
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
³ Though its waters roar and be troubled,
Though the mountains shake with its swelling.…
⁷ The Lord of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge.…
¹⁰ Be still, and know that I am God…. (Psalm 46; NKJV).

Some of my friends found this message of Psalm 46 reassuring. Beloved, our God is in control in every troubling situation we encounter. No earthquake, be it physical or spiritual; no storm, be it physical or spiritual; no fire, be it physical or spiritual, is beyond God’s control. He is Almighty and All-powerful. He is simply Supreme, and no situation affects or changes Him! Therefore, should our land quake, should a storm buffet us, should we encounter a raging fire, God assures us: “Be still, and know that I am God” (Ps. 46:10).

The prophet Elijah knew how to remain still in the face of an earthquake, a storm or a raging fire, because he believed that God is Almighty and Supreme. Jesus, in turn, taught His disciples to remain calm in the face of the stormy sea, because He, as the Son of God, is also Almighty and Supreme. Today’s first reading recounts the experience of the prophet Elijah (cf. 1 Kings 19:9, 11-13), whereas the gospel reading narrates the experience of the disciples (cf. Matt. 14:22-33).

According to the first reading, the prophet Elijah experienced a great stormy wind and a powerful earthquake, and he saw a raging fire at the mountain of the Lord God. God was, however, not in the storm, earthquake or fire. Rather the calming voice of God was heard by the prophet Elijah at the end of the troubling activities of these elements. This means that however terrifying the storm, earthquake and fire were, God was in control of them. This was the faith of the prophet, and so he remained calm and experienced God’s all-powerful protection!

The great stormy wind, powerful earthquake and the raging fire in the first reading are symbolic of the various troubles and trials we experience in our daily lives. In the first place, the stormy wind is invisible and yet powerful and destructive. It could therefore represent an (invisible) evil spirit that troubles us. But God is not only more powerful than any evil spirit, He is indeed All-powerful! So, like Elijah, let us trust in God’s powerful protection and deliverance should any evil trouble us. In other words, let us be still and know that He is God!

Secondly, an earthquake shakes and breaks the ground and other things along its path. Therefore, anything (e.g. disappointment, divorce, loss of a dear one, etc.) that shakes or breaks our life to its very foundation could be seen as a spiritual earthquake. This notwithstanding, as the prophet realized, God was not in the earthquake; He was above it. He is in control of it! Let us, therefore, trust in the redeeming hand of God whenever we experience a spiritual earthquake.

Thirdly, fire has a burning effect. Thus, the “burning” of our life-time savings (e.g. business) or achievements, or any experience (e.g. sickness) that causes us pains could be seen as a troubling spiritual fire. But God-the-Living-Water can quench every troubling fire! All we need to do is to be still and know that He is God!

Furthermore, however, powerful the storm, earthquake and fire were, Elijah did not consider them as divine; for in each case, he said God was not in it. Unfortunately, in the history of humankind, some people have attributed supernatural powers to certain elements of creation, e.g. rivers, lakes, forests, etc. Beloved, Elijah’s story reminds us that God is the Creator of all these things; they are only works of His hands and not gods!

In the gospel reading, St. Peter and the other disciples were likewise threatened by a stormy weather of the sea. However, in the midst of their trouble they, unlike Elijah, could not calmly trust in the Lord. They were rather afraid. Fear had so blurred their vision that, instead of seeing the Lord (they had known) walking on the sea as the Master of the stormy sea, they saw Him as a ghost (Matt. 14:26). This is what happens when our troubles create fear in us. Thus, Jesus had to reassure them: “it is I; have no fear” (Matt. 14:27).

Beloved, let us therefore not focus on or brood over our troubles; rather, let us focus on Jesus who has power and control over them. Consider this: as long as St. Peter focused on the Lord, he was able to walk on the water, but immediately he looked again at the frightening storm he began to sink, until he turned to the Lord again, saying: “Lord, save me” (Matt. 14:30)! Once again, beloved, in the midst of our troubles let us not brood over them (for then they will appear bigger and bigger like a growing storm); let us rather focus on the Lord with trustful prayers and be still; and we shall be saved! Amen!

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

Thanksgiving Mass for the Diamond Jubilee of Priestly Ordination of Most Rev. Anthony Kwami Adanuty, Bishop Emeritus of Keta-Akatsi Diocese

THEME: 60 YEARS OF EXEMPLARY PRIESTLY LIFE AND MINISTRY

Homily by Bishop John Kobina Louis

Readings: Isaiah 55:1--3; Romans 8:35, 37--39; Matthew 14:13--21

INTRODUCTION

Your Lordships, Reverend Fathers, Religious, Distinguished Guests, Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, today is a day of profound gratitude. We have gathered not only to celebrate sixty years since the ordination of Most Rev. Anthony Kwami Adanuty, but to thank God for sixty years of faithful priestly service.

Bishop Anthony Adanuty has been privileged to serve the Church as priest, pioneer Bishop of the Diocese of Keta-Akatsi, Vice President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, shepherd, teacher, father, and mentor. Through all these years, he has remained a humble servant of Christ.

Today’s readings reveal some qualities that make a priest exemplary: a life rooted in grace, sustained by prayer, marked by selflessness, overflowing with compassion, enriched by resourcefulness, distinguished by accountability, and crowned with unwavering love for Christ.

1. CATHOLIC PRIESTHOOD: CALLED BY GOD’S GRACE TO BE AGENTS OF HIS GRACE

The prophet Isaiah proclaims: “Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters... Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price” (Isaiah 55:1).

Salvation is God’s free gift. Grace cannot be bought, sold or commercialized. The Catholic priesthood is therefore never a profession for personal enrichment, social prestige or worldly influence. It is a gratuitous call from God and a mission to dispense His grace freely.

Sadly, our age witnesses the commercialization of the Gospel. Some who call themselves “pastors,” “prophets,” “men of God,” etc. have turned the Gospel into a marketplace. Grace is marketed, miracles are advertised, blessings are priced, and prayer has become a business enterprise.

Christ never sold His miracles. The Apostles never charged for the Gospel.

Jesus declared: “You received without payment; give without payment” (Matthew 10:8).

Bishop Anthony Adanuty is strongly convinced about this truth. He has always known that his vocation was not his achievement but God’s gracious gift. That conviction has given him humility, simplicity and fidelity.

Dear brother priests, let us learn from this noble example. The priest belongs to Christ, not to himself. Our greatest wealth is not money but the grace we have received and are called to share.

2. PRAYER: THE IMPORTANCE OF CONVERSATION WITH GOD, THE GIVER OF GRACE

Today’s gospel begins with a picture of Jesus in solitude: “He withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself” (Matthew 14:13). Before ministering to others, Jesus first communed with His Father.

No priest can give what he does not receive. Every fruitful ministry begins in prayer. Throughout his priestly and episcopal ministry, Bishop Adanuty has sought to imitate this prayerful life. Those who have worked closely with him know his love for the Eucharist, fidelity to the Liturgy of the Hours, Marian devotion, and quiet dependence upon God.

His public ministry has always rested upon a hidden life with God.

Priests today face many distractions --- meetings, administration, social media, financial concerns, endless activities. Yet none of these can replace prayer.

A priest who neglects prayer gradually loses spiritual vision. A priest who prays becomes God’s instrument.

May Bishop Adanuty’s witness remind all priests that ministry without prayer becomes activism, but prayer transforms ministry into grace.

3. A LIFE OF GRACE DEMANDS SELFLESSNESS

Matthew tells us: “When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick” (Matthew 14:14).

Jesus had sought solitude after hearing of John the Baptist’s death. Yet He set aside His own sorrow, because others needed Him. This is authentic priesthood. A priest cannot live only for himself.

Bishop Adanuty’s ministry has consistently reflected this evangelical selflessness. Whether serving as a priest in the minor seminary, bishop or administrator, he placed the needs of God’s people above personal comfort.

The priest’s question must never be, “What do I gain?” but “How may Christ be glorified?”

May every priest cultivate this generous spirit of joyful sacrifice.

4. PRIESTLY MINISTRY MUST BE CHARACTERIZED BY COMPASSION

Again, the Gospel says: “He had compassion for them” (Matthew 14:14). Jesus did not merely preach to the crowd. He healed them. He fed them. He restored their dignity.

Since becoming the first Bishop of Keta-Akatsi in 1995, Bishop Adanuty has sought to embody this compassionate love.

As the pioneer bishop, he nurtured a young diocese with fatherly care. He promoted priestly and religious vocations, strengthened catechetical formation, supported Catholic education, fostered pastoral structures, and encouraged initiatives that brought the Church closer to the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. Many priests, religious and lay faithful found in him, a wise counsellor and a compassionate shepherd.

Compassion remains indispensable today. Priests must never become administrators without hearts or pastors without tenderness.

The people of God do not merely need efficient priests; they need compassionate fathers.

5. “ONLY FIVE LOAVES AND TWO FISH”: BE RESOURCEFUL

The disciples saw scarcity. Jesus saw possibility.

The five loaves and two fish seemed insignificant. But placed in Christ’s hands, they became abundance.

This lesson beautifully describes Bishop Adanuty’s episcopal ministry. When he became the first Bishop of Keta-Akatsi Diocese, the challenges were enormous. A new diocese required institutions, personnel, financial resources, pastoral structures and long-term vision.

Instead of lamenting what was lacking, he wisely developed what God had already provided. Step by step, through prudent planning, collaboration with priests, religious and the lay faithful, encouragement of vocations, and responsible stewardship, the young diocese steadily matured and grew. That is genuine leadership.

Complaining never multiplies loaves. Faith-filled resourcefulness does.

Dear priests, do not spend your energy lamenting what you lack. Ask instead: “Lord, what have You already placed in my hands?“

God often performs His greatest miracles with what appears insufficient.

6. “COLLECT THE LEFTOVERS”: ACCOUNTABILITY AND RESPONSIBLE STEWARDSHIP

After everyone had eaten, “they took up what was left over... twelve baskets full” (Matthew 14:20). Nothing was wasted.

Jesus teaches responsible stewardship. Everything entrusted to the Church --- money, buildings, time, talents, people, even opportunities --- belongs ultimately to God.

Those who have known Bishop Adanuty testify to his prudent administration and careful stewardship. Throughout his ministry, he demonstrated respect for the Church’s resources and encouraged accountability in diocesan administration. He understood that faithful stewardship is itself an act of worship.

This remains an urgent lesson today. Priests must avoid extravagance, wastefulness and financial irresponsibility.

Transparency builds trust.

Accountability strengthens the Church’s witness.

Good stewardship honours God.

7. NOTHING CAN SEPARATE US FROM THE LOVE OF CHRIST

Finally, St. Paul triumphantly declares: “Who will separate us from the love of Christ?... In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:35, 37)

Sixty years inevitably bring changing seasons. There have been moments of joy and moments of sorrow; times of strength and times of illness; years of active episcopal ministry and the quieter years of retirement; youthful energy and the limitations of old age.

Yet through every season, Bishop Adanuty has remained faithful to Christ.

Like St. Paul, he has learned that neither suffering, nor weakness, nor advancing age, nor retirement can separate a faithful disciple from the love of Christ.

This is perhaps the greatest lesson of today’s celebration. The priesthood is not simply something one does. It is what one becomes in Christ.

Dear priests, remain faithful --- not merely when ministry is rewarding, but also when it becomes difficult. Love Christ in youth. Love Him in old age. Love Him in health. Love Him in sickness. Love Him until your final breath.

CONCLUSION

Today, we thank Almighty God for giving His Church a faithful priest and devoted bishop.

Bishop Adanuty reminds us that an exemplary priest is one who lives by grace, prays without ceasing, serves selflessly, loves compassionately, leads resourcefully, administers responsibly, and remains steadfast in love for Christ.

Your Lordship, we thank you for your witness, your fatherly leadership, your fidelity to the Gospel, and your generous service to the Diocese of Keta-Akatsi and to the Church in Ghana.

As you celebrate sixty years of priesthood, may the Good Shepherd, whom you have faithfully served, continue to renew your strength. May He reward your labours with His peace, preserve you in good health, deepen your joy, and grant you many more years of fruitful witness.

Amen.

READINGS: Isaiah 55:1-3 / Romans 8:33, 37-39/ Matthew 14:13-21

Today’s gospel reading is about the miracle of the multiplication of five loaves of bread to feed over five thousand people (cf. Matthew 14:13-21). The importance of this miracle by our Lord Jesus Christ could be seen by the fact that this event is recounted by all the four Gospels. Beyond satisfying the physical hunger of the crowd, Jesus teaches us that He is the Bread of life. That is, He is the only One who truly satisfies and strengthens us; and He does so forever.

To appreciate this message of Jesus as our Bread of Life, let us consider those occasions in the Old Testament when God instructed the Israelites to prepare a religious meal, or fed them, or assured them of a future banquet. Firstly, as a sign and memorial for their deliverance from slavery in Egypt, God instructed the Israelites to have the “Passover Meal” (Exodus 12:1-48). Secondly, to strengthen them for the “journey of salvation” to the Promised Land, God miraculously gave them manna from above (Exodus 16:13-31). Thirdly, centuries later, the prophet Isaiah would explain to his people the joy of God’s salvation with an imagery of a sumptuous banquet: “On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of fat things, a feast of wine on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wine on the lees well refined” (Isa. 25:6; RSVCE). Thus, often in the Bible, a meal or a banquet is used as a figure of deliverance or salvation by God.

Therefore, when the Jews exiled in Babylon heard of God’s invitation to eat and drink at no cost (Isa. 55:1-3; first reading), they understood that God’s deliverance or salvation (from Babylon) was close at hand. In other words, they understood that the prophet’s message was not so much about physical food and drinks, but the joy of returning to the Promised Land. And soon, they returned to the Promised Land. Similarly, the feeding of the thousands by Jesus (as recorded in today’s gospel reading) was not so much about their physical satisfaction, but about spiritual salvation in Jesus Christ.

This is quite clearly explained in St. John’s account of the feeding of the thousands. Jesus told the crowd: “I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you understood the miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. … The bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world. … I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty” (John 6:26-35).

In other words, as physical food (bread) satisfies our hunger and gives us strength and joy, so Jesus Christ is our spiritual satisfaction, strength and joy. Moreover, Jesus gives us far more than we obtain from physical food. In the first place, whereas physical food perishes, Jesus, the Bread of Life, lives forever. Secondly, while physical food nourishes our bodies (which are short-lived), Jesus nourishes our souls (which are eternal). Thirdly, whereas physical food is no longer useful at our death, Jesus can feed us beyond the grave!

Furthermore, Jesus wants us to understand and believe that nothing else (material or spiritual) can truly satisfy us and give us everlasting joy, except He Himself. When St. Augustine came to this realization, he exclaimed: “O God, you have made us for Yourself, and our souls are restless, until they rest in You.” Finally, therefore, may Jesus, the Bread of life, be our satisfaction, our strength, our joy, and our eternal rest. Amen!

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

STATE BURIAL SERVICE OF THE LATE AMB. JAMES VICTOR GBEHO (January 12, 1935 - June 13, 2026)

AT THE FORECOURT OF THE STATE HOUSE

ON JULY 31, 2026

HOMILY BY BISHOP JOHN KOBINA LOUIS

THEME: THE SOULS OF THE RIGHTEOUS ARE IN THE HAND OF GOD

READINGS: WISDOM 3:1-9 AND JOHN 14:1-6

GREETINGS AND INTRODUCTION

Your Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana, Your Excellency the Vice President, Right Honourable Speaker and Members of Parliament, dear Gbeho family, the clergy and other religious leaders, traditional rulers, distinguished statesmen and women, members of the diplomatic corps, friends, beloved in Christ:

Today, Ghana mourns one of her distinguished sons. The diplomatic community mourns an accomplished statesman. The Catholic Church mourns a faithful son. The Gbeho family mourns a loving brother, father, grandfather and uncle.

We gather in sorrow to bid farewell to Ambassador James Victor Gbeho, Esq. Death is painful, but it is not the end. Thus, our Lord Jesus Christ assures us: “Do not let your hearts be troubled... In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places” (John 14:1-2).

The first reading puts it this way: “The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God” (Wisdom 3:1). This is the theme for this homily, as Ambassador James Victor Gbeho aspired to live righteously so that, at the end of his earthly pilgrimage, his soul would rest in God’s loving hand.

While we mourn Ambassador Gbeho’s departure, let us ask ourselves: When my earthly journey comes to an end, in whose hand will my soul be?

1. SOME KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS OF THE RIGHTEOUS

According to the first reading, “grace and mercy are upon His [God’s] holy ones” (Wisdom 3:9). That is, holiness or righteousness begins not with human achievement but with God’s grace and mercy (cf. Romans 3:21-26).

However, grace calls us to a righteous way of life. Jesus therefore declares: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness” (Matthew 5:6).

In business management, organizations measure success through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Similarly, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gives us eight KPIs of righteousness, the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12). They are key indicators of those whose souls will ultimately be in God’s hands.

Allow me to reflect on four of them in the light of Ambassador Gbeho’s life.

a. Blessed are the poor in spirit (Matthew 5:3)

To be poor in spirit does not mean to lack possessions. It means recognizing that every good possession or achievement comes from God.

Ambassador Gbeho reached heights that many only dream of. He represented Ghana in capitals across the world. He served at the United Nations, became Ghana’s Foreign Minister, President of the ECOWAS Commission, an adviser to a President of Ghana, a Member of Parliament.

Yet those who knew him testify that these achievements never made him self-conceited.

Raised in the Catholic faith from infancy, he understood that titles are temporary but God is eternal. Positions come and go, but the Giver of every gift remains forever.

This is a lesson Ghana desperately needs. Too often, many in our public service, civil service and even the private sector behave as though political office, wealth and influence belong to them forever. Some enrich themselves through corruption. Others sacrifice truth for power, integrity for profit, and the common good for personal gain.

But all earthly offices end.

Every title is eventually surrendered.

Every property is left behind.

Only our relationship with God follows us beyond the grave.

b. Blessed are the pure in heart (Matthew 5:8)

Jesus promises: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”

Purity of heart begins with worshipping God alone.

Throughout his ninety-one years, Ambassador Gbeho remained steadfast in his Catholic faith. Through changing governments, changing responsibilities and changing seasons of life, his allegiance to Christ remained constant.

His example reminds us that public success should never replace private faith.

Many today seek influence without holiness, success without integrity and faith without commitment, multiplicity of incompatible spiritualities.

Ambassador Gbeho teaches us that it is possible to be fully engaged in public life while remaining faithful to God.

c. Blessed are the peacemakers (Matthew 5:9)

Perhaps no Beatitude describes Ambassador Gbeho more beautifully than this one.

Jesus says: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

Throughout his distinguished diplomatic career, Ambassador Gbeho became an instrument of peace.

Whether serving the United Nations in Somalia or ECOWAS in Liberia, whether representing Ghana before the nations or leading the ECOWAS Commission, he worked tirelessly to build bridges where others built walls.

Peace is never accidental.

It requires patience.

It demands wisdom.

It often asks us to sacrifice personal comfort for the common good.

Ghana needs more peacemakers than troublemakers, more bridge-builders than division-makers.

Peace is one of the greatest legacies a human being can leave behind.

d. Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness’ sake (Matthew 5:10)

Living righteously sometimes carries a price. Ambassador Gbeho experienced this personally.

When he faced opposition and persecution from some leaders of his own political party before the 2000 elections, he chose the difficult path of standing as an independent candidate for the Anlo Constituency.

Many probably doubted him. But truth prevailed. The people vindicated him with an overwhelming 68.2% of the votes, while the officially endorsed party candidate obtained only 15.1%.

Sometimes God allows the righteous to be tested, not to destroy them, but to reveal their integrity.

The first reading says: “Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good” (Wisdom 3:5).

Integrity may suffer temporary defeat. But in God’s time, truth is vindicated.

2. BENEFITS OF SOULS IN GOD’S HAND

Contributors of a pension scheme who die before their retirement age do not enjoy their benefits.

Fortunately, for the righteous, death is not the end of their benefits, but its beginning. Thus, Jesus, the CEO of the Heaven Insurance Trust (HIT), assures us: “In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places... I go to prepare a place for you” (John 14:2).

Furthermore, while those who live long after the retirement have to deal with the increasing depreciation in the value of their benefits, the heavenly benefits remain the same for all eternity, for God never changes!

Wisdom 3 highlights four awesome benefits of souls in God’s hand:

a. The joy of living with God

Wisdom tells us: “They will abide with Him [God] in love” (Wisdom 3:9).

There is no greater joy than experiencing God’s heavenly love.

b. Heavenly peace

The world may think the righteous have died. But Scripture declares: “They are at peace” (Wisdom 3:3), because “no torment will ever touch them” (Wisdom 3:1). That is, a life without sickness, disasters, shortages, disappointments, pains or any other evil.

c. Immortality

The hope of souls in God’s hand “is full of immortality” (Wisdom 3:4). So, they shall enjoy life with God and peace in heaven, not for only some days, years or decades, but for all eternity!

d. Understanding all the mysteries of life

Wisdom assures us: “Those who trust in Him will understand truth” (Wisdom 3:9).

Questions unanswered on earth become clear in God’s presence.

The mysteries that puzzled us are illuminated by the light of eternity.

May Ambassador Gbeho enjoy these blessings in abundance, the joy of God’s presence, everlasting peace, immortal life and the fullness of divine truth.

CONCLUSION

Your Excellencies, the Gbeho family and beloved People of God, today’s funeral asks us one question: In whose hand will your soul be?

Will it be in the hand of the Evil One, or in the loving hand of God?

If we desire our souls to rest in God’s hand, then we must seek righteousness.

Ambassador Gbeho sought to walk faithfully with God while serving his nation. His life reminds us that public service reaches its highest dignity when it is rooted in integrity, humility, faith and peace.

May his example inspire our leaders.

May it inspire our young people.

May it inspire every Ghanaian to build a nation where righteousness, rather than selfishness, becomes our greatest national legacy.

May the soul of Ambassador James Victor Gbeho, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

READINGS: 1 Kings. 3:5, 7-12 / Romans 8:28-30 / Matthew 13:44-52

If God were to say to you, ‘ask what you would like me to give you’, what would be your request? [Briefly think about your request].

What are you thinking about? Is it long life, good health, riches, good business, the gift of miracles or healing? According to the first reading, the young King Solomon asked for none of the above (1 Kings. 3:5, 7-12). He asked for only one thing: wisdom. And because Solomon requested for the one thing that pleased God, he was given wisdom, as well as some extras: riches and honour.

Beloved, there is still something greater than the wisdom that King Solomon asked for. And Jesus, who is greater and wiser than Solomon (Matt. 12:42), tells us about the most important thing to pray for: ‘Our Father … your kingdom come’. That is, because the kingdom of heaven is more important than anything else, Jesus teaches us to ask for the kingdom before we ask for our daily bread or anything else. On another occasion, Jesus makes this very clear: ‘Seek you first the kingdom of heaven … and all other things shall be added on to it’ (Matt. 6:33). The kingdom of heaven is so important that all the three parables of last Sunday’s gospel reading, those of today’s gospel reading and, indeed, most of Jesus’ parables are about it. Let us now look at the three parables in today’s gospel reading.

TREASURE THAT IS HIDDEN

Illustration: Many Africans see their treasure of greener pasture hidden in USA or Europe or China. And so they are willing to sell their property (land, car, etc.) to obtain a visa and ticket to travel abroad. Similarly, Jesus says, the kingdom of heaven is like finding a hidden treasure and selling everything you have to buy it.

Beloved, this very moment as we hear God’s message about His kingdom, we have found the treasure hidden by Him. Let us, therefore, go and sell our worries, anxieties and fears, and buy the kingdom of heaven with our faith! Let us seek first the kingdom of heaven, and God may add other things we need to it. Amen!

PEARL OF GREAT VALUE

In the days of Jesus there were merchants who travelled looking for diamonds and other precious stones; and when they found one of great value they sold their property to buy it. Thus, the parable of the pearl of great value has the same lesson as the previous parable: there is nothing of greater value than the kingdom of heaven.

Beloved, anyone who seeks first the kingdom of heaven has found the spiritual pearl, the spiritual diamond, of the greatest value – no amount of money can buy it! And Jesus, the King of heaven, is the keeper and manager of this spiritual diamond. The assurance is, therefore, that if we trust Him, we will never lose the diamond. So, like the merchant in this parable, let us go and sell our earthly treasures and invest more in the kingdom of heaven!

DRAGNET

Like the parable of the wheat and weed (Last Sunday), Jesus uses the parable of the dragnet to explain the fact that there will be a day of selection for heaven, or a time in which those due for heaven shall be separated from the candidates for hell.

But then, who will be selected (as good fish) for heaven? They are those who exhibit both faith and good works. King Solomon had the faith to trust that God would bless him. Yes, God blessed him with wisdom, riches and honour. But Solomon lacked good works in the latter part of his life, and so he displeased the Lord. Beloved, I prayed that unlike Solomon, our faith will be backed by good works, so that we will be pleasing to God and live forever in His presence in heaven. Amen!

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: Wisdom 12:13, 16-19 /Romans 8:26-27 /Matthew 13:24-43

The expression, ‘kingdom of heaven’ appears three times in today’s gospel (Matt. 13:24-43). In fact the ‘kingdom of heaven’ is the key message of the preaching of Jesus Christ. He began His ministry with the message, ‘repent, the kingdom of heaven is at hand’ (Matt. 4:17). In the four gospels together, the term ‘kingdom’ appears 127 times, and in Matthew’s Gospel alone 56 times.

It is very easy to describe an earthly kingdom, e.g. Ashanti kingdom, United Kingdom (UK). One can easily talk about: who the king or queen is; how he or she was chosen; geographical area or size of the kingdom; its population; etc. It is very easy to do this, because what we are describing is physical; it can be seen or measured. But the kingdom of heaven is not something physical. It is spiritual; it is a mystery; we can’t see everything about it whilst on this earth. Therefore, to explain the mystery of the kingdom of heaven, Jesus chooses to use parables. That is, He uses things we know (wheat, weeds, seeds and yeast) to explain what we don’t know.

TWO ASPECTS OF THE KINGDOM

Let us now look at two aspects of the kingdom of heaven from the parables of today’s gospel reading: a) recruitment into the kingdom and b) its small beginning.

a) Recruitment Exercise: to tell us about the recruitment exercise, Jesus uses the parable of the wheat and weeds. We may be familiar with United States of America (USA) Visa Lottery. Contrary to a non-USA citizen gaining entry into the country with this lottery, the parable of the wheat and weeds tells us that to enter heaven is not by lottery; it not by chance, but by God’s selection. It is He who will at the end of time distinguish the wheats from the weeds and choose the wheats. The wheats are those who live in accordance with God’s will, thanks to His grace. Aided by God’s grace, may we strive to live in accordance with His will and, eventually, be selected for His kingdom – Amen!

Beloved, evil (represented by the weeds) can’t enter God’s kingdom; that is why Jesus says from the onset of His ministry: ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ However, with God nothing is impossible and nothing is too late; so, if our sins have turned us into weeds, may God turn us into wheats for His kingdom, Amen!

b) Small beginning: to explain that the recruitment exercise starts with a few people but the end result will be an uncountable number of people in heaven, Jesus tells the parable of the mustard seed. The final multitude in heaven will be a number that this earth is too small to contain! May there be room in heaven for each of us! Amen! For our parents and siblings, amen! For our (deceased) grandparents, amen! For all our friends, amen! For all our parishioners, amen! For your children’s’ children, amen!

The third parable (in today’s gospel reading) of yeast in some dough of flour, like that of the mustard seed, is about the ever-increasing trend of the number of people entering God’s kingdom. Again, let our daily prayer be that ‘when the saints go marching in …O Lord, I want to be in their number.’

CONCLUSION

Finally, let me end with an insight inspired during a conversation with a friend. He lives and works in UK with a work permit, but he says he doesn’t want to acquire a dual citizenship, because he aspires to be a Member of Parliament (MP) in Ghana in the future. (The 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana does not allow Ghanaians with dual citizenship to become MPs.) Beloved, we are citizens of heaven, thanks to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Phil. 3:20-21). This earth is, therefore, not our permanent home. So, we need only work permit here; let us not lead our lives as if we will live here forever! Rather, like my friend, let us aspire to be Members of Paradise – MPs of heaven. Amen!

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: Isaiah 55:10-11/ Romans 8:18-23/ Matthew 13:1-23

Introduction

Two people may sit side by side in the same church, listen to the same readings and the same homily, yet one may leave transformed while the other may remain unchanged. The difference is not in the power of the Word but in the condition of the heart that receives it.

Today’s readings invite us to examine ourselves honestly. What kind of soil am I? How do I receive God’s Word?

1. God’s Word accomplishes its purposes

The Prophet Isaiah gives us a beautiful image. Just as rain and snow come down from heaven and water the earth, making it fruitful and productive, “so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose” (Isaiah 55:10-11).

God’s Word is never powerless. It created the universe. It liberated Israel from Egypt. It became flesh in Jesus Christ. It continues to convert sinners into saints today.

Whenever the Scriptures are proclaimed at Mass, God Himself speaks. Whenever we read the Bible prayerfully, Christ speaks to us. Whenever the Gospel is preached faithfully, the Holy Spirit is at work.

Often though, the divine power of God’s Word works silently and gradually, just as seeds grow beneath the soil before anyone notices.

2. Receiving God’s Word like the seed which fell on the path

In the Gospel, Jesus explains that some seed fell on the path, where birds quickly devoured it (Matthew 13:4, 19). These are those who hear God’s Word but never truly understand or welcome it. The evil one immediately snatches it away.

How often does this happen today? Some come to Mass physically but are mentally elsewhere. Mobile phones, social media, business concerns, politics, football discussions and countless distractions occupy the heart. Before the final blessing, the Gospel has already been forgotten.

The path becomes hard because it has been trampled repeatedly. Likewise, repeated sin, resentment and indifference harden the human heart.

Others harden their hearts through pride. They believe they already know everything. God’s Word cannot penetrate a heart that refuses to listen.

Let us ask God today for humble and attentive hearts that truly listen.

3. Receiving God’s Word like the seed which fell on the rocky ground

Jesus says that some seed fell on rocky ground where it sprang up quickly but withered because it had no deep roots (Matthew 13:5-6, 20-21).

These are enthusiastic Christians whose faith is based only on emotions. They are excited during retreats, conventions and revivals, but when suffering, criticism or persecution comes, they abandon Christ.

St. Paul reminds us in today’s second reading that “the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed” (Romans 8:18). Christian life includes trials. Faith that cannot survive suffering is not deeply rooted.

Many people stop praying when God does not answer immediately. Some stop attending Mass after losing a job, failing an examination, experiencing illness or losing a loved one. Others leave the Church because someone offended them.

Deep roots are formed through daily prayer, regular reading of Scripture, frequent reception of the Sacraments, Eucharistic Adoration and perseverance in difficult times.

A tree with deep roots survives storms. A Christian with deep faith survives life’s trials.

4. Receiving God’s Word like the seed which fell among thorns

Jesus tells us that the thorns represent “the cares of the world and the lure of wealth” which choke God’s Word (Matthew 13:7, 22).

This warning is especially relevant today. Many people begin their Christian journey sincerely but gradually become consumed by money, career advancement, business success, political ambition and material comfort. None of these is evil in itself, but when they become more important than God, they choke spiritual growth.

Today, some sacrifice Sunday Mass for business. Others compromise honesty for financial gain. Corruption, examination malpractice, internet fraud, bribery and unethical business practices often begin when the desire for wealth replaces the desire for holiness.

Jesus does not condemn wealth; He condemns allowing wealth to possess our hearts.

The thorns also include anxiety. Many worry constantly about tomorrow instead of trusting God’s providence. Anxiety consumes the energy that should be directed towards faith.

God’s Word cannot flourish where greed and anxiety dominate the heart.

5. Receiving God’s Word like the seed which fell on the good soil

Jesus speaks of the good soil. These are those who hear God’s Word, understand it and live it. They bear fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixtyfold and some a hundredfold (Matthew 13:8, 23). The good soil is an attentive, humble, prayerful and obedient heart.

The fruit of God’s Word is seen in love, peace, forgiveness, generosity, patience, purity, justice, hope, etc. So, when God’s Word takes root, families become places of forgiveness instead of conflict. Marriages become stronger. Young people choose integrity over corruption. Public servants become honest. Business leaders become just. Priests become holy shepherds. Society itself begins to change.

The seed has extraordinary potential. A tiny seed can produce an abundant harvest. Likewise, one Scripture verse believed and obeyed can transform an entire life.

Conclusion

Beloved in Christ, every time we read or listen to Scriptures or sound homilies, God sows His Word into our hearts. The question is not whether God is speaking. He is. The question is whether we are truly listening:

• Am I the hardened path?

• Am I the rocky ground?

• Am I surrounded by the thorns of worldly worries? Or

• Am I becoming good soil where God’s Word can bear abundant fruit?

Finally, let us pray in the following manner before reading or listening to Scriptures:

Lord Jesus, remove every hardness from our hearts. Pull out every thorn of sin and anxiety. Deepen our roots in faith during times of suffering. Make our hearts good soil, so that Your Word may bear abundant fruit in our lives, our families, our Church and our nation. Amen.

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: Isaiah 61:1-3/ Hebrews 5:1-10/ Luke 4:16-21

Ordination of Priests at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, at Ntronang in Koforidua Diocese, on 4^th July, 2026

Homily by Bishop John Kobina Louis

INTRODUCTION

My brother priests, consecrated women and men, nananom, families of the ordinandi, and beloved in Christ, the Letter to the Hebrews reminds us that every priest is chosen from among men (Heb. 5:1). However, no one not even our Lord Jesus Christ (Heb. 5:5) presumes “to take this honour, but takes it only when called by God, just as Aaron was” (Heb. 5:4).

It is, therefore, with hearts full of gratitude to God that we celebrate the honour which He is bestowing upon dear ordinandi: Rev. Benjamin Abeka-Buckman, Rev. Sixtus Sewordo Mensah and Rev. William Obiri Frimpong.

Beloved, according to today’s gospel reading, Christ was anointed by the Holy Spirit (cf. Luke 4:18). Considering the anointing of Christ and His ministry in the light of today’s readings, let us reflect on what is expected of priests, especially our three brothers, following our anointing at ordination.

1. “THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME …”

This declaration of Jesus in Luke 4:18 is not accidental. It follows His baptism in the Jordan, where the Holy Spirit descended upon Him. The Spirit rested upon Him and empowered His mission (cf. Acts 10:37-38).

Jesus is the “Anointed One” — the Christ — not by mere oil, but by the very indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Dear ordinandi and brother priests, at ordination, hands are laid upon us, and we are anointed. This is not a mere ritual — the same Spirit that rested upon Christ, in whose priesthood we share, is given to us.

Dear Rev. Benjamin, Rev. Sixtus and Rev. William, throughout your lives, let today’s anointing burn within you like the sustained effect of a deep heating ointment.

Beloved priests, here is a question for us: Is our priestly ordination anointing still burning within us?

It is possible to be validly ordained, yet spiritually lukewarm. It is possible to function as priests, yet lack the fire of the Spirit.

So, dear priests, let us pray:

• For the grace to rekindle the gift of the Spirit within us (cf. 2 Tim 1:6)

• For a priesthood that is not mechanical, but Spirit-driven

Let us not rely only on knowledge or experience. Let us return to the source: the Spirit of the Lord.

2. “PREACH GOOD NEWS TO THE POOR”

The first fruit of the anointing is mission: “He has sent me to preach good news to the poor” (Luke 4:18).

In our Ghanaian context, poverty is real — and it is not only material. Yes, there is economic hardship, youth unemployment, etc. But there is also:

• Spiritual and emotional poverty

• Loneliness and despair

• Etc.

Dear ordinandi and brother priests, the poor do not need sermons that weigh them down — they need Good News that lifts them up. To preach the Good News to the poor means:

• Preaching hope in the midst of suffering

• Proclaiming that God has not abandoned them

• Making the Church a place where the poor feel seen, welcomed, and valued (let us be sensitive to them during fundraising)

Let our preaching be:

• Simple but profound

• Compassionate but truthful

• Rooted in Christ, not in personal opinions or agenda

3. “PROCLAIM RELEASE TO THE CAPTIVES”

Besides the poor, some people are captives. Many Christians in Ghana today are held bound by:

• Fear of witchcraft and other evil forces

• Dependence on charms and occult practices

• Deception by false prophets and exploitative ministries

• Spiritual insecurity and confusion

Brothers, we must not be silent. To proclaim release to the captives means:

• Teaching clearly that Christ has conquered all powers

• Freeing people from fear through sound doctrine and prayers

• Encouraging trust in the sacraments, not superstition

• Offering pastoral guidance rooted in truth, not sensationalism

Let us preach with conviction that no charm, no curse, no power is greater than Christ!

So, unlike fear-mongering “pastors”, our ministry must liberate people.

4. “RECOVERING OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND”

In John 9, Jesus restores sight to a man born blind — not only physical sight, but spiritual vision. Today, many are spiritually blind:

• Blinded by ignorance of the faith

• Blinded by misinformation and false teachings

• Blinded by moral confusion

• Blinded by distractions of modern life

Brothers, we are called to lead people to see again. How?

• Through solid catechesis

• Through well-prepared and sound homilies

• Through Bible teaching and formation programmes

• Through personal accompaniment and spiritual direction

We must not assume our people understand the faith — they need to be taught, guided, and enlightened.

A priest who does not teach clearly leaves his people in darkness. Let us, like Christ, always teach with clarity even when the message is not popular.

5. “SET AT LIBERTY THOSE WHO ARE OPPRESSED”

Today, oppression takes many forms in our society:

• Domestic abuse and family breakdown

• Addiction — alcohol, drugs, pornography

• Economic exploitation and gambling (e.g. sports betting)

• Social injustice

• Psychological burdens and depression

Christ did not only preach — He acted. He touched, healed, defended, restored. So must we. Brothers, our ministry must be both:

• Sacramental and practical

• Spiritual and compassionate

We can help liberate the oppressed by:

• Being available and approachable

• Supporting the vulnerable in our communities

• Collaborating with lay organizations for social outreach

• Promoting justice, peace, and human dignity

• Offering counselling and pastoral care

Let our parishes not be only places of worship — but centres of healing and liberation.

CONCLUSION: “THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD”

Jesus’ reading from the Book of Isaiah ended with: “To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord” (Luke 4:19). The first coming of Christ inaugurated the era of grace and salvation. The time when God visits His people.

Dear ordinandi and brother priests, we are the instruments of this time. When people meet us:

• They should experience God’s mercy

• They should encounter God’s compassion

• They should feel God’s presence

Our priesthood must not be a burden to the people — it must be a blessing.

Let it be said of our ministry:

• That through us, captives found freedom

• That through us, the blind received sight

• That through us, the poor heard Good News

• That through us, the oppressed were lifted up

• And above all: That through us, the acceptable year of the Lord became real.

May the Holy Spirit, who anointed Christ, renew His anointing in us today.

Finally, may we go forth from this ordination as Spirit-filled instruments of Christ’s mission of salvation. Amen.

READINGS: Zechariah 9:9-10; Romans 8:9,11-13; Matthew 11:25-30

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, we live in a world that often celebrates power over service, pride over humility, and aggression over gentleness. Many people believe that to succeed in life, one must be loud, forceful, and dominant. Yet today’s readings present us with a completely different picture of greatness. God reveals that true strength is found in humility, true victory in gentleness, and true greatness in love. Let us, therefore, seek to be gentle and humble in heart like Jesus.

1. The Victorious yet Humble King in Zechariah 9

The first reading contains a Messianic prophecy. The prophet Zechariah announces:

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion… Behold, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey” (Zechariah 9:9). This prophecy was striking because kings normally entered cities riding magnificent horses or chariots after military victories. Their arrival displayed military might and political dominance.

However, God’s chosen king would be different. He would ride on a donkey — a symbol of peace rather than war, humility rather than pride, and service rather than domination.

The prophecy continues: “He shall command peace to the nations” (Zechariah 9:10).

Notice that this king conquers not by violence but by peace. His kingdom extends not through fear but through love. This teaches us an important spiritual lesson. God does not save the world through domineering but through humility; not through revenge but through mercy; not through force but through love.

This prophecy prepares us to recognise the true Messiah.

2. Jesus fulfils the Prophecy of Zechariah

Jesus fulfils Zechariah’s prophecy perfectly when He enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey (cf. Matthew 21:1-11).

Moreover, Jesus does not merely act humbly; He reveals His very Heart. Only once in all the Gospels does Jesus explicitly describe His own heart: “I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29). This is a deep self-description by Jesus. Indeed, from His incarnation and throughout His earthly life and death, humility is inspiringly visible:

– Even though He was the Son of God, He emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave (Philippians 2:6-8).
– He was born not in a palace but in a manger (Luke 2:7).
– He washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:1-15).
– He welcomed sinners, embraced children, healed the sick, forgave His enemies, and prayed for those who crucified Him (Luke 23:34).

True greatness is therefore measured not by how many people serve us but by how many people we lovingly serve.

3. Let Us be Gentle and Humble Like Jesus

We should not merely admire Jesus’ humility and gentleness. He commands us to imitate Him. He says: “Learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29).

Humility is not weakness. Neither is gentleness cowardice. In fact, it takes greater strength to control one’s anger than to explode in rage. It takes greater courage to forgive than to seek revenge. It takes greater maturity to listen than to dominate every conversation.

The Scriptures repeatedly encourage this way of life. For instance, St. Paul urges us: “Walk in a manner worthy of the calling… with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:1-2). Again we read: “Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness and patience” (Colossians 3:12).

Every Christian should ask:

– Do I listen before speaking?
– Do I apologise when I am wrong?
– Do I forgive easily?
– Do I seek attention and praise?
– Do I treat those below me with respect and kindness?

To become like Jesus is to become gentle and humble.

4. Blessings for Those Who Are Gentle and Humble

Blessings accompany gentleness and humility. Here are some of the blessings: First, Jesus promises rest for our souls: “You will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29). Many people possess wealth but lack peace because pride creates constant anxiety, jealousy, resentment and conflict. Humility brings inner peace.

Secondly, Jesus teaches: “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). This means that meekness or gentleness is a pathway to inheriting God’s reward.

Thirdly, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). The humble receive divine favour.

Fourthly, “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12). God Himself lifts up those who humble themselves before Him.

Finally, humble people become channels of God’s love. They build strong families, peaceful communities and vibrant parishes because they resemble Christ Himself.

Conclusion

Beloved, today’s Gospel reading invites each of us into the very Heart of Jesus.

While the world teaches us to promote ourselves, Jesus teaches us to humble ourselves.
Whereas the world admires power, Jesus admires service.
Where the world rewards pride, God rewards humility.

Let us therefore ask ourselves each day: Is my heart becoming more like the Heart of Jesus?

May the Holy Spirit, of whom St. Paul speaks in today’s second reading, remove every trace of pride, anger, arrogance and selfishness from our hearts.
May He fill us with the gentleness, humility, patience and love of Christ.

Then our homes will become places of peace, our parishes communities of charity, and our nation a witness to the transforming power of the Gospel.
Amen.

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: Acts 12:1-11 / 2 Tim. 4: 6-8, 17-18/ Matthew 16:13-19

Sometimes in life, some people fall from a status of honour to shame or disgrace. Such people are said to have fallen from “grace to grass”. On the contrary, the two great apostles whom we celebrate today arose from grass to grace. St. Peter rose from denying Christ to become the rock on which the Lord has built His church (cf. Mt. 16:13-19). And St. Paul arose from being a staunch persecutor of Christ and His Church to become, arguably, the most outstanding and tireless Apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 8:1-4; 9:3-9, 15). So, as we celebrate their solemn feast, let us ask for the grace of turn-around in our lives: that we may also rise up from our low spiritual status to a high one; and that even socially many more will move to higher statuses.

Secondly, associated with the two saints’ rising from grass to grace is the change of their names. There is something we can learn from this. Simon became Peter and Saul became Paul. (Interestingly, each of them began with a name which begins with “S” and ended up with a name with “P”).

Let us now look at the names of the first saint. His name “Simon” means “hearing”, while “Peter” means “rock”. Now, did our Lord Jesus Christ not say that whoever hears His words and puts them into practice is like a man who built his house on rock, whereas the one who does not put them into practice is like a man who built on sand (cf. Mt. 7:24-27)? Thus, one could say that the grace of Christ turned the man, Simon, who heard (but took little action) into a solid “rock” man who acted on what he heard. Beloved, this is a reminder that it does not pay to be mere hearers of God’s Word, whereas there are manifold blessings in being doers of the Word (cf. James 1:22-25).

Now, the name “Saul” means “asked for” or “demanded”. The first time this name occurs in the Bible is in the story about the Israelites asking for or demanding to have their own king. Interestingly, the name of that king was Saul (“asked for” or “demanded”) (cf. 1 Samuel 8:4-9:2). On the other hand, the name “Paul” means “little”.

So, before his conversion, the Saul who persecuted Christians was a man, who did things (for God) in his own way. However, the grace of Christ changed him into Paul. That is, he became a “little” (i.e. “humble”) instrument for the conversion of thousands of souls across the world (cf. Acts 9:15). Yes, Paul became a very effective instrument of God once he became humble: “whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (cf. Mt. 23:12).

Having been schooled in humility, St. Paul would in turn teach us, giving us Christ as the ultimate model of humility. Thus, he wrote:

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Who, being in the very nature of God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death —
even death on a cross!
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father (Phil 2:5-11).

Beloved, let us be humble in our thoughts and deeds; for anytime we acknowledge in thoughts and deeds that we are like grass before the Lord (cf. Ps. 90:5-6; 102:11), He fills us with divine grace.

Let us conclude with this PRAYER: “Lord God, like St. Peter, make us as firm as a rock in faith and action. And like St. Paul, make us your humble and effective instruments of your salvation. Amen!”

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: 2 Kings 4:8-11,14-16/ Romans 6:3-4,8-11/ Matthew 10:37-42

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, according to today’s readings, one of the ways by which God blesses us is through His prophets. Thus, Jesus declares: “Whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward” (Matthew 10:41).

This statement raises important questions for us, especially here in Ghana. Who are the true prophets of God? How do we distinguish them from false prophets? How should we treat those who are truly sent by God? And what blessings does God promise to those who welcome His authentic messengers? This homily reflects on these questions.

1. False Prophets in Our Time

Our country (Ghana) is deeply religious. Churches spring up every week, and many people eagerly seek spiritual direction. Unfortunately, alongside authentic servants of God, there are also false prophets.

Some exploit people’s fears and weaknesses. They promise instant wealth instead of honest labour. They sell miracles, “blood of Jesus”, holy water, oils, stickers and handkerchiefs as though God’s grace were a commodity. Some manipulate vulnerable people through frightening prophecies, demanding money before offering prayers. Others preach prosperity without repentance, blessings without conversion, and miracles without the Cross.

Jesus Himself warned us to be discerning: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits …” (Matthew 7:15-16). Not everyone who claims to be a prophet is a true messenger of God: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God; for many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1).

As Catholics, we must never allow ourselves to be deceived by sensationalism. Our faith is rooted in Christ, handed down through the Church founded upon the Apostles.

2. Identifying the True Prophets of God

How then do we recognise God’s authentic prophets?

First, true prophets remain faithful to God’s Word. They preach what people need to hear, not merely what they want to hear (cf. Deut. 18:18-19).

Secondly, true prophets live holy and humble lives. According to the first reading, the woman of Shunem recognised Elisha as a prophet not because he performed spectacular shows but because, as she said, “I know that he is a holy man of God” (2 Kings 4:9). Holiness — not popularity — is the mark of God’s prophet. A prophet’s character speaks louder than his charisma.

Thirdly, true prophets, like St. John the Baptist, point people towards Christ rather than themselves (cf. John 1:29-30; 3:28,30). Authentic prophets never replace Christ; they always direct us to Him.

Fourthly, today’s second reading reminds us that true prophets encourage us to die to sin and live for God. St. Paul teaches: “You also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Romans 6:11). Anyone whose ministry encourages sin, greed, hatred or moral compromise cannot claim to speak for God.

Today, we thank God for the authentic prophets among us: our Holy Father, bishops, priests, religious, catechists, parents, teachers, and faithful lay leaders who proclaim God’s truth with integrity.

3. Kindness to True Prophets

The Shunammite woman did more than admire Elisha; she welcomed him into her home. She prepared food for him and even built a small furnished room where he could rest whenever he travelled through her town (2 Kings 4:8-11). She expected nothing in return. Her generosity sprang from faith.

Likewise, Jesus teaches: “Whoever welcomes you welcomes me” (Matthew 10:40). To receive God’s messenger is to receive Christ Himself.

Kindness to God’s prophets takes many forms today:

• We pray for and encourage our bishops and priests

• We care for missionaries, religious sisters, catechists and seminarians

• We support the Church generously through our time, talents and treasure

• We defend those who faithfully proclaim the Gospel even when their message is unpopular.

Hospitality towards God’s servants is ultimately hospitality towards Christ.

4. Blessings for Kindness to Prophets

God never allows generosity to go unrewarded. The Shunammite woman was childless, yet through Elisha’s prayer she received the blessing she never imagined possible. The prophet declared: “At this season, in due time, you shall embrace a son” (2 Kings 4:16). God transformed her generosity into abundant blessing.

Jesus repeats the same promise: “Whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward” (Matthew 10:41). Even the smallest act of kindness does not escape God’s notice: “Whoever gives even a cup of cold water... will by no means lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42).

God’s rewards are not always material. Sometimes they come as peace of heart, deeper faith, stronger families, protection in difficulties, spiritual joy, and, above all, eternal life.

Conclusion

Beloved, our society desperately needs authentic prophets — men and women whose lives reflect the holiness of Christ. But we also need faithful believers who recognise, welcome and support God’s genuine messengers.

Let us reject every false prophet who seeks personal gain rather than God’s glory.

Let us remain firmly rooted in Christ and in the teaching of His Church.

Finally, as we persevere in receiving the true prophets of God, may we one day receive the eternal reward prepared for all who remain faithful. Amen.

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: Jeremiah 20:10-13 / Romans 5:12-15 / Matthew 10:26-33

The adjective “steadfast” refers to something that is firmly fixed in place. That is, something immovable. It could also refer to something that is not subject to change (cf. Merriam-Webster Dictionary). Steadfast faith, therefore, refers to a faith that is immovable or that is not subject to change. This is the kind of faith in God we need to exhibit in difficult times.

The Bible provides us with many examples of persons who demonstrated steadfast faith in God in difficult times. Today’s first reading (cf. Jer. 20:10-13), for instance, presents us with the personality of the prophet Jeremiah who experienced all kinds of difficulties and yet remain steadfast in faith. He was ridiculed, imprisoned, and dumped in a dry well. He suffered all these troubles in the hands of his own political authorities, religious leaders, friends and relatives. For instance, in today’s first reading, the prophet mentions the evil schemes and torments of his own friends and acquaintances:

‘For I hear many whisperings:
“Terror is all around!
Denounce him! Let us denounce him!”
All my close friends
are watching for me to stumble.
“Perhaps he can be enticed,
and we can prevail against him’ (Jer. 20:10).

To crown the series of difficulties Jeremiah experienced, he was eventually captured and sent into exile. Yet, in all these difficult times, his faith in God was steadfast. His faith was simply immovable. No difficulty was big enough to change his faith in God. He trusted that God who was with him is greater than all (Jer. 20:11). Therefore, even in the midst of his troubles, Jeremiah praised God (Jer. 20:13). Beloved, the prophet Jeremiah should inspire us to also remain steadfast in faith in difficult times.

Furthermore, the Jews in Jeremiah’s time were taken into exile in Babylon. Some years later in exile, three young Jews would demonstrate extraordinary steadfast faith. The young men, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, refused to worship the golden statue knowing very well that they could be thrown into a fiery furnace for disobeying the order of the Babylonian king (Dan. 3:1-12). When brought before the king to answer the charge against them, they were steadfast in testifying to their faith in God. They said to the king: “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to present a defense to you in this matter. If our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire and out of your hand, O king, let him deliver us. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods and we will not worship the golden statue that you have set up” (Dan. 3:16-18).

Thus, they were prepared to die in the fiery furnace instead of giving up their faith in God. Their steadfastness in faith was certainly extraordinary! And what is more? Even in the midst of the flames of the furnace, the three young Jews sang and praise God (Daniel 3:25-90). God eventually saved them from the flames. As a result, the gentile king acknowledged that the God of Israel is almighty, and he decreed that all the peoples of the nations in his empire should revere the God of Israel. He then promoted the three young Jews (Daniel 3:91-100).

As Jeremiah, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego experienced difficulties, so our Lord Jesus alerted His apostles that they would also experience difficulties. And, as Jeremiah and the three young Jews remained faithful to God, trusting that God would reward them, so Jesus exhorted His apostles not to be fearful but to trust God who is almighty; for those whose faith remain steadfast in the Almighty will ultimately be victorious (cf. Matt. 10:26-33).

In short, Jeremiah, the three young Jews and our Lord Jesus Christ teach us that:

• God is above all difficulties, for He is supreme!

• No difficulty is difficult for God, for He is almighty!

• Difficult times do not mean the absence of God but rather a test to determine the absence or presence of our faith in God.

• We pass the test of difficult times if we remain steadfast in faith by the grace of God.

• We demonstrate steadfast faith in difficult times when we endure hardships, testify to our faith by word and deed, and praise God.

• God’s reward for those who pass the test of faith in difficult times is great!

Beloved, like Jeremiah, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego and the apostles who were all literally martyred on account of their faith in God, let us remain steadfast in the difficulties of life. Let us testify to our faith in God by enduring the hardships of these times, while we find innovative ways of solving some problems; let us testify to our faith in God by word and deed; let us pray more fervently and praise God the more; where the opportunity is offered us, let us join our fellow church members to worship – for in the midst of the flame of the furnace as the three young men worshipped, an angel of God accompanied them; we are even more fortunate for Jesus Himself and not just an angel will be with us when at least two or three of us gather to worship.

Finally, beloved, may the reward of the Lord for our steadfast faith in difficult times exceed our desires and imaginations. Amen!

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis

READINGS: Exodus 19:2-6a/Romans 5:6-11/Matthew 9:36-10:8

Introduction

Beloved in Christ, today’s readings invite us to contemplate one of the most profound truths of our faith: the immeasurable love of God. In a world where love is often conditional, temporary, and self-seeking, God reveals to us a love that is unconditional, faithful, and sacrificial.

Beloved, we are invited not only to marvel at this love but also to discover it more deeply, respond to it faithfully, and share it generously with others.

1. God’s Love is Beyond Measure

The first reading presents a beautiful image of God’s tender love for His people. Through Moses, God reminded the Israelites: “You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself” (Exodus 19:4).

Notice the tenderness of these words. God did not speak merely as a ruler issuing commands but as a loving Father recalling His saving deeds. He carried His people “on eagles’ wings,” protecting and guiding them through their journey.

Furthermore, He said: “You shall be my treasured possession among all peoples” (Exodus 19:5). What an astonishing declaration! The Creator of heaven and earth chose a people and called them His treasured possession.

This love reaches its fullest expression in Jesus Christ. St. Paul writes: “While we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly” (Romans 5:6). Human love often waits for people to become worthy. God’s love does the opposite. Christ did not die for us because we were righteous. He died for us while we were sinners.

St. Paul emphasizes this truth: “God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). This is love beyond measure. It cannot be quantified, earned, or exhausted. It is a love that embraces us in our weakness, forgives us in our sinfulness, and restores us to friendship with God.

2. Responding to God’s Love by Obedient Faith

God’s love always calls for a response. In the first reading, God said: “Now therefore, if you obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession” (Exodus 19:5). Thus, a most appropriate response to divine love is faith expressed in obedience. God does not force His love upon us. He invites us into a covenant relationship.

Faith is not merely believing that God exists. Faith means trusting Him, surrendering to Him, and allowing His Word to shape our lives.

Jesus Himself said: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Many people desire God’s blessings but hesitate to follow God’s commands. Yet genuine love cannot be separated from obedience.

In Ghana today, responding to God’s love means rejecting corruption, dishonesty, tribal prejudice, occult practices, and every form of injustice. It means remaining faithful in marriage, honest in business, responsible in public service, and committed to the values of the Gospel.

When we obey God, we do not lose our freedom; rather, we discover our true dignity as His royal and holy children (cf. Exodus 19:6).

3. Spreading God’s Love

Another important way of responding to God’s love is to share it with others. Thus, to His disciples who were experiencing His love, Jesus instructed: “As you go, proclaim the good news … Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cast out demons. You received without payment; give without payment” (Matthew 10:7-8).

These words are especially important for us today. God’s love is a free gift. We did not earn it. Christ paid the price on the Cross. Therefore, we must share it freely.

This teaching challenges certain tendencies that have emerged in some Christian circles today. There are instances where spiritual gifts, prayers, healings, prophecies, anointing oils, holy water, or access to spiritual assistance are presented in ways that appear commercialized. Sometimes people are made to feel that God’s blessings can be purchased through special payments, offerings, or financial transactions.

Such practices contradict the words of Jesus: “You received without payment; give without payment” (Matthew 10:8).

This does not mean that the faithful should not support the Church and its ministers. The Church depends on the generosity of her members. However, there is a profound difference between freely supporting the mission of the Church and turning the gifts of God into commodities for sale.

God’s grace cannot be bought. His mercy cannot be purchased. His love is not for sale.

As disciples of Christ, we are called to spread God’s love through acts of charity, evangelization, forgiveness, and service. In our families, parishes, schools, workplaces, and communities, we must become living witnesses of God’s compassionate heart.

When we visit the sick, help the poor, comfort the grieving, encourage the discouraged, and proclaim the Gospel, we become channels through which God’s love reaches others.

Conclusion

Dear brothers and sisters, today’s readings reveal a God whose love is truly beyond measure. He carried Israel on eagles’ wings. He sent His Son to die for us while we were still sinners. His Son looked upon the crowds with compassion and sent His disciples to continue His mission.

Let us therefore discover more deeply the heart of God. Let us respond to His love with faith and obedience. And having received His love freely, let us share it freely with all whom we meet.

Finally, may our words and deeds proclaim to the world that God’s love is indeed beyond measure. Amen.

By Most Rev. John Kobina Louis