The Most Rev. Peter Paul Yelezuome Angkyier, Bishop of the Damongo Diocese, has called on Christians to embody hope and family virtues as he delivered a moving homily during the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. The event, held at the St. Anne Cathedral on December 29, 2024 in Damongo, also marked the official opening of the Jubilee Year 2025 under the theme, Pilgrims of Hope.
Addressing a congregation of the faithful, Bishop Angkyier emphasized the importance of Christian families as the foundation of society. Drawing inspiration from the Holy Family of Nazareth, he highlighted their humble, prayerful life and unwavering obedience to God as a model for all families. “True family life grows when centered on prayer and the word of God,” he said, urging families to cultivate virtues such as love, patience, humility, and mutual respect.
Reflecting on the Jubilee Year’s theme, Pilgrims of Hope, the Bishop reminded Christians of their spiritual journey towards God’s eternal kingdom. He explained that being pilgrims signifies a life of faith and trust in Jesus Christ. Quoting Pope Francis, he said, “Christian hope does not deceive or disappoint because it is grounded in the certainty that nothing and no one may ever separate us from God’s love.”
He urged the faithful to undertake spiritual pilgrimages during the Jubilee, including visiting designated sacred sites to strengthen their faith and renew their hope.
Bishop Angkyier expounded on the Gospel reading recounting the Holy Family’s pilgrimage to Jerusalem for the Passover. He noted the challenges faced by Mary and Joseph when they realized Jesus was missing and their subsequent patience and perseverance in finding him in the temple.
“Their unwavering trust in God and their eventual joy in finding Jesus show us the need for patience and faith in the midst of life’s challenges,” the Bishop said.
He also highlighted Jesus’ response to Mary’s concern, saying “Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” as a powerful revelation of his divine identity and mission. Despite his divine awareness, Jesus remained obedient to his earthly parents, exemplifying humility and unity within the family.
Bishop Angkyier reminded parents of their God-given responsibility to nurture their children in faith, guiding them toward their vocation in life. He encouraged parents to respect their children’s unique gifts and aspirations, even when these differ from their expectations.
“Parents are custodians of God’s gift to them, and they must lead their children to God through prayer and example,” he stated. He also urged children to honor their parents, noting that obedience fosters wisdom and divine favor.
The Bishop outlined key pillars for strengthening family life, including faith, communication, patience, and mutual respect. He stressed the importance of creating an environment where family members can discover and develop their talents while maintaining trust and love.
As the congregation looked ahead to the Jubilee Year, Bishop Angkyier called on all families to reflect the values of the Holy Family in their daily lives. He encouraged them to live harmoniously, rooted in hope, as they await the coming of the Lord. Quoting Pope Francis, he concluded, “Hope in the Lord! Hold firm, take heart, and hope in the Lord!”
The event ended with a collective prayer for families and the grace to walk as true pilgrims of hope in the coming year.
By; Edwin Gogu
