The Diocesan Council of the St. Anthony’s Guild in the Catholic Diocese of Goaso successfully organized its 23rd Diocesan Congress at St. John of God Catholic Church from 8th to 10th May, 2026.The three-day spiritual and formation gathering brought together eighty-two delegates drawn from various Units across the Diocese. The Congress was held under the theme: “What Are the Responsibilities as an Anthonian in This Modern Time in the Catholic Church?"
The programme was organized under the auspices of Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Afum, Parish Priest of the host parish, who warmly welcomed participants during the opening session on Friday. In his remarks, he encouraged members of the Guild to remain steadfast in faith, prayer, and service to the Church despite the many challenges confronting Christian associations in contemporary society.
The highlight of the second day was the keynote address delivered by Very Rev. Fr. Daniel Afum. Reflecting on the Congress theme, he urged members of the Guild to become authentic witnesses of Christ through discipline, charity, evangelization, and commitment to the mission of the Church. He emphasized that modern-day Anthonians must not only preserve the traditions of the Guild but also actively contribute to the spiritual growth of the Church and society.
Following the keynote presentation, participants engaged in workshops and group discussions aimed at deepening their understanding of the theme and exploring practical ways of strengthening the Guild within the Diocese. The deliberations focused on leadership, commitment to prayer, unity among members, youth involvement, and strategies for sustaining inactive Units.
A solemn Penitential Service and Holy Mass formed an important part of the Congress activities. During the Eucharistic celebration, eleven new members were officially initiated into the St. Anthony’s Guild, marking a significant moment of spiritual renewal and growth for the association.
As part of efforts to strengthen the activities of the Guild, an appeal for funds was launched to support the Council’s programmes and future projects. Members and patrons were encouraged to contribute generously toward the development of the Guild and its evangelization mission within the Diocese.
The Congress also resolved to intensify efforts toward reviving weak Units and establishing new ones in areas where the Guild is yet to take root. Organizers and Unit leaders were specifically charged to undertake regular visits to struggling Units in order to encourage active participation and growth.
Out of the fourteen recognized Units within the Diocese, twelve were represented at the Congress, reflecting the continued enthusiasm and commitment of members toward the growth of the St. Anthony’s Guild in the Catholic Diocese of Goaso.
Source: Sir Knight Peter Boahene