St. Anthony Parish, Brookfields, Freetown, Sunday 16 June 2024 – His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio attended this year’s thanksgiving and patronal feast day celebration of St. Anthony of Padua on the theme, “Building a Vibrant Parish.” The ceremony brought together Catholic worshippers to reflect on the saint’s life.
President Bio described the occasion as historic for him, noting that St. Anthony Parish was his first church before he began worshipping at St. Luke. He recalled how he never missed any mass at St. Anthony Parish and expressed happiness in joining the congregation in worship again.
Commenting on a short play about the life of St. Anthony of Padua performed by children aged 5-7, President Bio emphasized that no house could stand without a strong foundation. He highlighted his government's commitment to education and noted that their investments were gradually yielding results.
President Bio reiterated his dedication to providing purpose-driven knowledge to children for the country's development and urged parents, guardians, and fellow Sierra Leoneans to embrace education as an investment in their future.
He praised the children's skit as evidence that education unlocks many potentials globally. He linked gains in education, health, women’s empowerment, and other areas to peace and stressed that peace is the cornerstone of development in any country. He called on Sierra Leoneans to prioritize peace over violence.
The Vicar General of the Catholic Church in Sierra Leone, Very Rev. Joseph Kamanda, reminded worshippers that they had gathered to thank God and observe the feast of Christian faith. He emphasized reliance on saints for intercession and reflection on their lives.
Rev. Kamanda stated that one's status should not prevent them from worshipping or giving thanks to God and noted that age is irrelevant when serving God. He mentioned that holiness is a universal call; even though St. Anthony came from a wealthy family, he chose to serve God.
He urged the church to remember hope and resurrection during celebrations and advised against doubting God during challenging times.
For more enquiries: State House Media and Communications Unit info@statehouse.gov.sl
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