“Welcome to St. James Catholic Church.
The absence of a Catholic Church once posed a challenge. This affected devoted Catholics in Cantonment, Labone and the Regional Engineers area. They had to travel to St. Peter’s Parish in Osu to attend Mass. Distance made it difficult for some to attend Sunday Mass regularly.
A temporary solution emerged at St Maroun’s Catholic Church in central Osu. In 1961, Mr. Osei Asibey and other Ghanaian Catholics were welcomed by Fr. Abdullah to the Lebanese Catholic Community. Mass was spoken in Arabic. Despite the language barrier, the Ghanaian parishioners grew in number. They included the late Mr. J H Allasani, the late Mr. Bright Michael Opoku and Mr. Owusu Sarfo.
In 1965, these men requested permission from His Grace, Emeritus Archbishop Dominic Kojo Andoh. They wanted to serve at Mass under the guidance of the Maronite Missionaries. The Archbishop granted their request. Visiting priests then conducted Mass in English.
Mr. J H Allasani enlivened the Mass. He organized a church choir. Initially, it consisted of his household members. Later, family members of Mr. Osei Asibey joined. Mr. Lawson eventually became the Choir Master.
His Grace, Emeritus Archbishop Dominic Kojo Andoh recognized the zeal and commitment of the parishioners. He conferred with Rev Fr Abdallah. They arranged accommodation and appointed a resident Priest. This priest would join Fr. Abdullah in serving the English-speaking parishioners.
Today St. James Catholic Church stands as a testament to faith and perseverance. It symbolizes the dedication of those early parishioners. They overcame obstacles to worship together. Their spirit continues to inspire us. The church is a vibrant community. It welcomes all who seek spiritual nourishment.
Remember the journey of those early Catholics. They laid the foundation for this thriving parish. As you reflect may their devotion inspire your own faith journey at St. James Catholic Church.”