Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ho, Most Rev. Emmanuel Kofi Fianu has erected three new Quasi-Parishes for the Diocese
According to the Bishop, the move is to attend to the pastoral needs of three Parishes in the Diocese.
The Quasi-Parishes include St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Quasi Parish, Aveme Beme, expected to be operational starting from 1st August, 2023. Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom, Sokode Lokoe to be operational from October 1, 2023
and St. Raphael Quasi Parish, to be operational from October 1, 2023.
What is a Quasi Parish?
A quasi-parish is a term used in some Christian denominations, particularly within the Catholic Church, to refer to a community or group of faithful who have not yet been established as a fully independent parish but have been given certain rights and privileges typically associated with a parish.
In the Catholic Church, the establishment of a parish is usually a formal process that involves the appointment of a pastor, the assignment of territorial boundaries, and the establishment of administrative structures. However, in certain circumstances, such as when a new community is being formed or when there is a shortage of priests, a quasi-parish may be established as an interim measure.
A quasi-parish is generally led by a priest, who may be assigned to multiple quasi-parishes or have other pastoral responsibilities. While a quasi-parish may have its own worship services, sacraments, and pastoral care, it is often still considered part of a larger parish or cluster of parishes. The specific rights and responsibilities of a quasi-parish may vary depending on the local diocese or the particular circumstances of its establishment.
The purpose of a quasi-parish is usually to provide pastoral care and spiritual support to a community of faithful while plans are being made for the establishment of a full-fledged parish. Once the necessary conditions are met, such as sufficient growth in the community or the availability of a permanent pastor, the quasi-parish may be elevated to the status of a regular parish.
