Catholic Priests in Ghana Told to Refrain from Partisan Politics and Endorsements in Pastoral Ministry

In brief

Archbishop Gabriel Justice Anokye has directed priests in the Catholic Archdiocese of Kumasi to avoid partisan political discussions, endorsements, and criticisms during their pastoral ministry. In a circular letter issued September 4, the Archbishop stated that the priesthood must remain a ministry of reconciliation, unity, and Gospel proclamation.

The directive prohibits priests from engaging in political debate during Mass, homilies, catechesis, and association meetings. Archbishop Anokye also extended this restriction to social media platforms used in their official priestly capacity. He noted that these measures aim to protect the sacred identity of the priesthood and maintain the credibility of priests during periods of intense political discussion in Ghana.

Archbishop Anokye warned priests to use prudence in public engagements to prevent political opinions from dividing the faithful. He further cautioned priests against presenting personal political predictions as divine messages, stating that no individual can independently declare a public prophecy as coming from God without authentication or approval from competent Church authorities.