Konongo-Mampong Diocese : Bishop suspends priest over unauthorised absence

The Catholic Diocese of Konongo-Mampong has imposed an indefinite suspension a divinis on Rev. Fr. Samuel Adapore, prohibiting him from publicly celebrating Mass or administering the sacraments.

The suspension, announced by the Bishop of Konongo-Mampong, Most Rev. John Opoku-Agyemang, takes effect from Monday, 24 August 2026.

In a statement issued to the clergy, consecrated men and women and the faithful of the diocese, Bishop Opoku-Agyemang said the decision was taken in consultation with the College of Consultors following what he described as “serious acts” by the priest.

Rev. Fr. Adapore was until the suspension the Rector of St Anthony of Padua Rectorate, Nkwantakese.

According to the Bishop, the priest unilaterally decided to take a leave of absence from the diocese and abandoned his pastoral ministry at Nkwantakese without legitimate permission.

The Bishop said this was contrary to Canon 533 §1 of the Code of Canon Law, which concerns the obligations of a parish priest regarding residence and absence from his parish.

“He also took all his personal effects from the mission house at Nkwantakese without recourse to anybody,” Bishop Opoku-Agyemang said.

The Diocese further stated that attempts to establish contact with the priest have so far been unsuccessful.

“As at now, he has blocked all access to him and his immediate family members have maintained that none of them knows his whereabouts,” the Bishop said.

The suspension a divinis means that Rev. Fr. Adapore is prohibited from exercising certain acts of sacred ministry.

The Bishop specifically stated that the priest is forbidden from publicly administering the sacraments, including celebrating or concelebrating Mass, as well as officiating at other liturgical services.

The suspension has been imposed indefinitely and will remain in force until further notice.

Bishop Opoku-Agyemang described the decision as difficult but necessary in the exercise of his responsibility as diocesan bishop.

“With a heavy heart but a great sense of duty to Holy Mother Church, I write to inform you of my decision,” he said.

The Bishop further urged the Catholic community to pray for Rev. Fr. Adapore.

“Let us remember him in our prayers,” he said.

The Diocese has not disclosed the priest’s current whereabouts or indicated whether further canonical proceedings will follow.