The Bishop of the Damongo Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Paul Yelezuome Angkyier, delivered an inspiring homily during the Feast of the Epiphany at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Bamboi, on 5th January, 2025, urging Christians to reflect on their faith, embrace the light of Christ, and live out the gospel with renewed zeal.
Preaching on the theme, “What Shall I Render the Lord”, the Bishop emphasized the profound significance of Epiphany, one of the oldest Christian feasts, which celebrates the manifestation of God through His Son, Jesus Christ. Drawing from scriptural readings (Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6, and Matthew 2:1-12), he explained that the feast highlights the universality of salvation and the call for all nations to recognize Jesus as the Savior.
Bishop Angkyier reflected on the first reading’s message of hope and restoration for Jerusalem, likening it to the call for Christians today to embrace God’s light and reject despair. He connected this to St. Paul’s message in the second reading, which revealed the mystery of Christ—that all peoples, Jews and Gentiles alike, are now part of the same body of Christ.
Turning to the Gospel, the Bishop recounted the journey of the Magi, who, guided by a star, sought and worshipped the newborn King with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Despite the indifference and hostility of Herod and the people of Jerusalem, the Magi remained steadfast, becoming models of faith and devotion.
“The wise men were foreigners who diligently sought Christ. In contrast, the scribes and people of Jerusalem, though aware of the Messiah’s prophesied birth, showed apathy. This teaches us to avoid being consumed by worldly pursuits that hinder us from recognizing and welcoming Christ into our lives,” the Bishop admonished.
Bishop Angkyier urged the congregation to emulate the Magi by offering their lives and talents to Christ. “Anyone who encounters the newborn King cannot continue on the old path. The light of Christ must transform us to be better Christians and bringers of His light to others,” he stressed.
During the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord, Bishop Angkyier confirmed 67 parishioners, commissioned seven lectors, and seven extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion at St. Anthony of Padua Parish. The celebration took place in the parish’s newly constructed church, adding a significant milestone to the joyous occasion.
The Bishop’s message resonated strongly with the Confirmandi, who received the Sacrament of Confirmation during the celebration. He reminded them of their baptismal promises, calling on them to embrace their roles as mature Christians, ready to defend their faith, support one another, and spread the gospel.
“The gifts of the Holy Spirit you receive today will strengthen you to stand firm in your faith and bear witness to Christ in all aspects of your life. You are now messengers of the gospel, tasked with bringing the light of salvation to those who have not yet encountered it,” he charged.
Bishop Angkyier concluded by encouraging all gathered to let Jesus, the Star, guide their lives. He reminded them that the Epiphany is a call to bow before Christ with offerings of faith, hope, and love, and to joyfully share His light with the world.
The Bishop’s powerful homily and the celebration of the Sacraments left the congregation inspired to renew their commitment to Christ and carry His light into the world.
