Bishop Angkyier of Ghana : Calls for Environmental Stewardship and Renewal at the Jubilee Year Celebration
Most Rev Peter Paul Y Angkyier, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Damongo, Ghana, Africa : Calls for Environmental Stewardship and Renewal at the Jubilee Year Celebration.
In a passionate address, Most Rev. Peter Paul Y. Angkyier, underscored the critical importance of environmental stewardship and renewal in the context of the current global ecological crisis. His speech highlighted the intertwining themes of the Jubilee Year and the pressing need for action against climate change.
Speaking at a special event organized by the Conference of Major Superiors of Religious, Ghana, through the Religious Men and Women in the Diocesan and spearheaded by Sr. Lydia Berewono, SMI, and Bro. Basilide Dong, FIC, at St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish, Canteen, Damongo on 15th June,2024. The Bishop emphasized that the Jubilee Year is a time for significant spiritual and environmental renewal. He drew parallels between the biblical concept of the Jubilee, a time of forgiveness and restoration, and the modern need for ecological conservation.
Bishop Angkyier articulated that the Jubilee Year offers a profound opportunity for Christians to reflect on their relationship with the environment. "The climate crisis is a matter of great importance. Pope Francis has called on pilgrims to experience renewal, not just in Rome but also in their local churches," he said. This global celebration, he noted, is an invitation for all to renew their commitment to caring for God's creation.
He elaborated on the biblical foundation for this perspective, referencing the tradition of letting land lie fallow and forgiving debts during the Jubilee Year as acts of mercy and restoration. "In our Christian perspective, we see this as a time for the liberation of Christians from sin and evil, and a chance for renewal in our spiritual lives," he stated.
The presentation highlighted various initiatives undertaken by religious communities in Ghana and beyond to combat ecological degradation. Examples include the Green Anglican Movement's tree planting efforts and the Methodist Church of Ghana's participation in the Green Ghana Initiative.
The bishop stressed that environmental issues require urgent and collective action. "The Pope has emphasized that through the Jubilee Year celebrations, we may be renewed in our hope and in our homes," he said, urging all, from young to elderly, to actively participate in this renewal. He encouraged the faithful to join hands with religious leaders and contribute to efforts aimed at renewing the face of the earth.
The Jubilee Year celebration in the Diocese serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of faith and environmental stewardship, inspiring communities to take meaningful steps towards preserving the planet for future generations.
Written by Gogu Edwin
Editor by Rev. Fr. Peter Akomanyi Tawiah
DONATE to Fr. Peter's Mission in Ghana for poor children: https://www.givesendgo.com/stppak
Special to Catholic News World
Special to Catholic News World
Comments