By: Edwin Gogu
The Catholic Diocese of Damongo on Friday, 15th August, 2025, marked the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary with a grand pilgrimage to the Our Lady of the Annunciation Grotto at Sonyor in the Bole District of the Savannah Region. The celebration, which drew hundreds of faithful from within and outside the diocese, was climaxed with a Holy Mass presided over by the Bishop of Damongo, Most Rev. Peter Paul Angkyier.
In his homily, Bishop, Most Rev. Peter Paul Angkyier called on Christians to live as “pilgrims of hope”, drawing inspiration from the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose Assumption into heaven signifies victory over sin and death. He emphasized that in today’s world, which is marked by corruption, injustice, ethnic divisions, and hopelessness, Christians are called to become true signs of hope through lives of faith, service, and witness.
“The doctrine of the Assumption teaches us that Mary, having completed her earthly life, was raised body and soul into heaven, and there she reigns as Queen of Heaven and Earth,” the Bishop explained. “Her example shows us that even in the midst of trials and sacrifices, we must remain faithful, hopeful, and committed to our vocations. Genuine love and service to others bring meaning, joy, and hope to our lives”
Most Rev. Angkyier further reminded the faithful that the Assumption is a celebration of God’s promise that all who belong to Christ will share in His glory. He urged Catholics to strengthen their devotion to the Eucharist, lives of holiness, and entrust their future and struggles to the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church.
The Bishop also blessed and consecrated a newly built altar at the Grotto, setting it apart for worship and reminding the faithful of their baptismal call to holiness and transformation of society.
The Director of the Shrine/Grotto, Rev. Fr. Paul Kuunuba welcomed pilgrims and recalled the significance of the Marian feast days celebrated annually at the Grotto. He explained that the Sonyor Grotto, established on October 31, 2013, has become a spiritual center for renewal and answered prayers, attracting pilgrims throughout the year for major Marian feasts such as the Annunciation (March 25), the Assumption (August 15), the Rosary Month closing (October), and the Immaculate Conception (December 8).
He encouraged the faithful to continue seeking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and to make the Grotto a place of constant prayer and spiritual renewal.
The celebration was marked with hymns, prayers, and testimonies of faith, reinforcing the message that the Assumption of Mary is not only a sign of her glory but also a symbol of hope and promise for all believers.
