The St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Atiavi in the Catholic Diocese of Keta-Akatsi celebrated its centenary on Saturday, February 8, 2025 with a grand ceremony graced by the presence of several Religious Sisters from the various Dioceses in Ghana.
The presence of the Religious Sisters in this occasion indicated how the Church in Ataivi had contributed to the Church’s growth in the Diocese.
The St. Anthony Church has produced a lot of men and women of God including Religious Sisters, who have been instrumental in the church’s mission in the Diocese.
The Consecrated Women in the Church not only stay in the Convent and pray; but move out to take part in other activities of the Church, interact with people and bring them hope.
Representing President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the First ever Female Vice President of the country attended the celebration, highlighting the church’s significant contributions to education and welfare in the community and in the Country as a whole.
“I’m very happy to be here because of the Church. We all know the roles the Church plays and all churches for that matter play in our life. We can mention education, we can mention health but importantly we can mention social formation and we can also mention welfare”, she pointed out.
The centenary celebration was a blend of culture and religion, reflecting the rich heritage of the Atiavi community.
Attendees enjoyed various cultural performances and religious activities, commemorating the church’s 100-year journey.
The event underscored the enduring impact of the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Atiavi, as it continues to be a beacon of faith, education, and social welfare in the region and in the country as a whole. Some individuals and families who contributed immensely to the development of the Church in Atiavi were awarded citations.
Among them was Rev. Fr. Joseph Rabiossi, MCCJ, who through his instrumentality the current chapel was built.
The monument built to mark the Centenary celebration and the new St. Anthony Grotto built were unveiled by her Excellency, Prof. Jane Naana and the Most Rev. Gabriel Edoe Kumordji, SVD, the Bishop of Keta- Akatsi Diocese.
Present at the occasion were Priests, Political leaders, Chiefs and other opinion leaders.
By Sr. Agnes Mercy Nyatsoe, SMMC (Sr. Communicator)
