In a solemn and joyous ceremony held at the St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Catholic Church in Canteen-Damongo on December 21, 2024, the Bishop of the Damongo Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Paul Yelezuome Angkyier, presided over the matrimonial celebration of two couples: Irenaeus Saana and Ganmaal Mildred Domaninge, and Evans Gogu-Nwentieru and Vivian Kuunyem. The event, graced by family, friends, and parishioners, reflected the sacredness of marriage as both a vocation and a commitment to Christian witness.
Delivering his homily, Bishop Angkyier highlighted the spiritual significance of marriage, drawing on the day’s readings from Genesis 2:18-24, Ephesians 5:2a, 25-32, and Mark 10:2-9. He emphasized that marriage is not merely a social contract but a divine institution designed by God as part of His plan for humanity.
“From the beginning of creation, God intended man and woman to be companions, sharing equal dignity as they fulfill His divine plan,” the Bishop remarked. Referencing the Gospel, he reminded the congregation of Christ’s affirmation of the indissolubility of marriage: “What therefore God has joined together, let not man put asunder.”
The Bishop described Christian marriage as a vocation, a call to participate in the mission of Jesus Christ. By choosing marriage, couples commit to discipleship, forming a domestic church through their bond of love. He encouraged the newlyweds to see their union as a means of witnessing God’s love to the world and contributing to the growth of His Kingdom.
Marriage, the Bishop noted, is a lifelong covenant requiring trust, fidelity, and sacrifice. He explained that mutual respect, effective communication, and a spirit of perseverance are critical to building a successful and fulfilling marital relationship.
“To give an unqualified ‘yes’ to walk life’s journey together is a huge undertaking,” he said. “But as people of faith, you trust in God’s grace to sustain your commitment through the joys and challenges ahead.”
Expounding on the mission of the Christian family, the Bishop cited Pope Benedict XVI’s exhortation on the family as a setting for learning forgiveness, peace, and reconciliation. He urged the couples to be witnesses of faith, educating their children in Christian values and ensuring that their households radiate the Gospel message.
Bishop Angkyier offered practical advice for a successful marriage, including: Trust and Mutual Respect: Building a lasting relationship requires trust, which can only thrive in an environment of mutual respect.
Fidelity: Couples must demonstrate unwavering commitment and genuine love, embracing both the joys and trials of married life.
Good Communication: Effective dialogue and shared decision-making are essential to maintaining harmony and understanding in the family.
Patience and Perseverance: Navigating the challenges of marriage demands patience, a willingness to forgive, and perseverance in living out the marital covenant.
As he concluded his homily, Bishop Angkyier encouraged Irenaeus and Mildred, as well as Evans and Vivian, to embrace their new roles as Christian couples fully. He urged them to be models of love and faith within their families and communities, fulfilling their mission as disciples of Christ.
The joyous occasion was marked by heartfelt prayers, hymns, and blessings, leaving an indelible mark on all who witnessed the sacred union of the two couples. Their commitment to each other and to God’s plan serves as a testament to the enduring beauty and sanctity of marriage in the Catholic faith.
By: Gogu Edwin
