[Opinion] What have we not done right?

Today, as Mr. Damian Dieu Donne Avevor celebrates his birthday, I have been reflecting on the contribution this passionate journalist has made to Catholic communications in Ghana and beyond and also asking myself if we have been kind enough to him.

It’s an unfortunate reality that despite his immense work and dedication to the Church’s media ministry, he has not received the recognition he so richly deserves from the very institution he has so faithfully served.

For nearly 20 years, Mr. Avevor has been a prominent voice in Ghana’s Catholic media landscape, particularly through his prolific writing for The Catholic Standard. His by-line, which readers of the newspaper will undoubtedly recognize, became and is still synonymous with quality Catholic journalism.

Mr. Avevor’s influence goes far beyond simply writing articles—he has actively shaped and nurtured the voice of the Catholic Church in Ghana through the media, offering guidance, mentorship, and a deep understanding of the power of words in spreading the Gospel.

His professional journey began in 1998, and since then, he has amassed an impressive portfolio of over 2,000 published stories. His contributions have appeared not only in The Catholic Standard, but also in internationally recognized platforms such as Catholic News Service, ACI Africa, and Vatican Radio.

Through these media outlets, Mr. Avevor has contributed to spreading the message of the Church, often reporting on issues that affect the faithful and uplifting the narratives of the global Catholic community.

What sets Mr. Avevor apart, however, is his tireless dedication to mentoring others in the field of Church media. He is not just a journalist; he is a guide and motivator.

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His contribution extends to his role in shaping the Church’s media presence in Ghana. As the former News Editor of The Catholic Standard for a decade, he brought innovation and integrity to the publication. His experience and leadership have influenced many in the Church communications field, yet the recognition he deserves for these achievements has often been absent. He has not sought the spotlight, but his quiet dedication has profoundly impacted Catholic journalism in Ghana.

It is also worth noting that Mr. Avevor’s international acclaim as a journalist has earned him two prestigious awards for “Excellence in Journalism,” presented by the Geneva-based International Christian Organisation of the Media (ICOM). These accolades underscore the global impact of his work and his status as a leading figure in Church communications.

On this special day, as Mr. Avevor celebrates another year of life, it is fitting that we pause to recognize the immense contribution he and many others are making to the growth of the Church in Ghana. His dedication to Catholic communications has shaped the way we engage with the Church’s message through the media, and his work continues to impact the lives of countless individuals.

Methinks the Church in Ghana can do more to recognize Mr. Avevor for his years of selfless service and profound impact on Catholic media. His work speaks for itself, and it is high time that we honor this pioneer in Church communications

Happy Birthday, Mr. Avevor. Even if we humans forget to honour you, be assured that your Father in heaven has seen your contribution to his Church and is turning things around for you. God bless you.