Priesthood is God’s call, not a career – Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana

The Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana, Archbishop Julien Kaboré, has reminded four newly ordained priests of the Society of African Missions (SMA) that the priesthood is a response to God’s call rather than a personal ambition.

Preaching at the priestly ordination of Rev. Barnabas Osei-Owusu, Rev. Joseph Valentine Amoah, Rev. Justin Kwame Amisa and Rev. Walter Kofi Tottoh at Our Lady Queen of Africa Catholic Church, Oshuiman Estate, on Thursday, 25 June, the Papal representative urged the new priests to remain rooted in the understanding that their vocation began with God.

“The priesthood is never merely a personal project or a career choice. It is a response to a call that precedes us. Before these four men knew God, God knew them.”

Drawing from the call of the Prophet Jeremiah, Archbishop Kaboré said every genuine vocation originates in God’s plan long before it becomes visible to others.

He reminded the congregation that God chooses those He calls before they themselves recognise their vocation.

The Apostolic Nuncio also paid tribute to the families and formators who accompanied the four new priests on their journey to ordination.

“Behind every priestly vocation, there are parents. Parents who have prayed, sacrificed, encouraged, and sometimes suffered.”

He added that the Church also owes gratitude to those involved in priestly formation.

“We thank as well the formators, spiritual directors, professors, and all those who have accompanied these candidates along the path of discernment and formation.”

Watch homily below