Rev. Fr. Vitus Edem Yao Mensah, a Provincial Custos of the Order of Friars Minor Conventual (OFM Conv.) in Ghana, emphasized the importance of unity among Ghanaians. He lamented that divisions hinder progress, citing examples from families to national politics.
Delivering a sermon at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Awoshie-Anyaa during the
Knights of St. John International thanksgiving Mass, the priest encouraged unity among Christians saying it’s time to put aside political differences and work towards the country’s department.
“When you’re going to buy fuel, they won’t ask your party color,” Fr. Mensah said, urging citizens to prioritize national interest over party affiliations. He stressed that Ghana’s development depends on the collective efforts of its people, regardless of political leanings.
Rev. Fr. E.Y. Mensah expressed concern that divisions among Christians have led to a situation where church members are choosing which priests to work with, saying, “I want this priest to serve the mass, I like this priest, I don’t like this priest.”
He emphasized that this trend must stop, reminding members that they are worshiping God, not the priest. “Are you worshiping the priest or God?” he asked, urging Christians to unite and end the practice of favoritism towards particular priests.
Friars Edem Yao Mensah citing the example of early Christian communities where divisions arose over personalities like Apollos and Paul.
He urged Christians to avoid divisions, saying “I am for Paul, I am for Apollos,” and instead focus on Jesus. He referenced John the Baptist, who pointed people to Jesus, saying, “Behold, the Lamb of God!”
“Why are we not developing? Why, after many years since 1957, are we not progressing? Because we are divided on political party lines,” Fr. Mensah said.
He urged Ghanaians to leave aside party affiliations and work together for national development, just as different gifts and ways of expressing oneself are valued in the church.
Report by Bernard K Dadzie, Greater Accra Region
