As part of efforts to adopt an inclusive approach to addressing challenges such as the declining Catholic population, attendees at the 10th National Sacred Heart of Jesus Enthronement Centre Congress in Tamale are participating in a series of workshops designed to promote the concept of a Synodal Church.
These sessions are guided by the theme of the Congress, “National Sacred Heart of Jesus Enthronement Centre, Ghana @50: Building a Synodal Church, the Role of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Devotional Practices by the Catholic Family.”
The workshops, which employ a bottom-up approach recommended by the synodal process, are facilitated by bishops and priests from various dioceses across Ghana.
These sessions provide an opportunity for clergy and laity to engage in dialogue on how the Sacred Heart of Jesus devotional practices can strengthen the Church and foster unity.
The breakout sessions cover various languages and groups, making them accessible to all participants.
Notable among the facilitators are Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, CSSp, Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, who led the English I session for Tarcisians and adults, and Most Rev. John Yaw Afoakwah, Bishop of Obuasi, who moderated another key session for adults.
Most Rev. Peter Paul Y. Angkyier, Bishop of Damongo Diocese, and Most Rev. Dominic Yeboah-Nyarko, Bishop of Techiman Diocese, also played significant roles as moderators.
Other diocesan representatives, such as Rev. Fr. Silas Sapaty, Spiritual Director of the Accra Archdiocesan Sacred Heart of Jesus Enthronement Centre, and Rev. Fr. Victor Atta Owusu, Spiritual Director of the Obuasi Diocesan Sacred Heart Enthronement Centre, coordinated various sessions designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the synodal process.
The workshop sessions are aimed at ensuring that all voices within the Church are heard, reflecting the core values of the synodal journey. Attendees are encouraged to contribute ideas and experiences, fostering a collaborative approach to spiritual growth, family unity, and the strengthening of Catholic faith through Sacred Heart of Jesus devotional practices.
