There are seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the sick, Ordination and Matrimony. While living here in Damongo I have been Blessed to be present at five of the seven.
I attended the Baptism of my Ghanaian granddaughter, Annette (I adopted my neighbors, Paulina, Francis and their three children as my Ghanaian family). I also attended as Evan’s, another adopted son’s, second child Mathias, was Baptized. Yes, I have become Mama Karen/Granny Karen to many during my four years serving here in Damongo.
I experienced the Diaconate Ordination of 17 men whose main objective was to be ordained Priests. This most beautiful ceremony took place at a Seminary two hours from Damongo. Two of these young men are from my diocese. I missed their ordination to priesthood because of traveling to the USA when Covid-19 first hit, but was later able to experience three young men from the Damongo Diocese be ordained.
Shortly after I arrived in Damongo a group wedding was performed at St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Parish. I was present as 13 couples took the vows of marriage. Quite different, I know, to have 13 married at the same time, but quite exciting as the entire church was filled with dancing and singing with joy.
Also at St. Theresa’s Parish I watched as several children received the Sacrament of Confirmation. This Sacrament, performed by our Bishop, The Most Rev. Peter Paul Y. Angykier, is were the gifts of the Holy Spirit strengthen the newly confirmed. A group of young children performed during the Confirmation Mass.
As for me, I receive the Sacrament of Holy Eucharist several times a week while attending Mass. This enables me to be filled with God’s abundant Graces and unites me more closely with Christ. Living my life as a missionary in Damongo IS TRULY A BLESSING!
