The Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Techimantia, in the Catholic Diocese of Goaso, joyfully celebrated its Centenary with a series of activities, climaxed with a grand durbar and thanksgiving Mass under the theme: “Ebenezer, Celebrating God’s Goodness” (cf. 1 Samuel 7:12).
Centenary Celebrations
The week-long celebrations were marked by a variety of activities that engaged both parishioners and the wider community. Highlights included a float through the principal streets of Techimantia, which drew attention to the historic milestone, and an exciting quiz competition, which brought together the youth and societies of the parish in a spirit of learning and joy.
The climax began on Saturday with a colorful durbar at the church premises. The event brought together parishioners, societies, invited churches, traditional leaders, government officials, and the wider community.
The durbar featured cultural performances, choral music, and a fundraising session in support of church projects. The parish also recognized pioneer families, priests, and religious for their dedicated service and contributions to the growth of the church. The cutting of the centenary cake added color to the celebration.
On Sunday, the celebration continued with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass presided over by the Bishop, Most Rev. Peter Kwaku Atuahene. As part of the liturgy, eight couples were joined in holy matrimony in a special mass wedding. The day was crowned with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and the launch of the centenary magazine, marking 100 years of faith, family, and God’s goodness.
Also present to grace the celebration was the Provincial Superior of the SMA Ghana, Rev. Fr. James Owusu Yeboah, together with other members of the Society of African Missions (SMA), whose presence highlighted the strong missionary foundation of the parish.The parish priest, Rev. Fr. Dennis Senyo Etti, and his assistant, Rev. Fr. Francis Kunda, led the parishioners throughout the celebration, expressing gratitude to God for His faithfulness and calling for renewed commitment to the mission of the Church.
The centenary celebration of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Techimantia, remains a milestone of gratitude, unity, and renewed commitment to God’s service for the years ahead.
A Journey of Faith
The Catholic faith in Techimantia traces its roots to the 1920s through the efforts of Kwaku Nti, a singing band leader from Dome near Agogo, who used his musical gifts as a tool for evangelization. Though the Presbyterian Church was already well established in the area, his zeal laid the foundation for what later became the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
Initially known as St. Anthony Catholic Church, the name was later changed to Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church as many of the faithful joined the Sacred Heart Confraternity. Dedicated pioneers like Peter Anyimadu, the first president, and others played a vital role in strengthening the young community. Over time, outstations were opened in nearby towns and villages, spreading the Catholic faith across the area.
The parish grew steadily with the support of visiting priests and later resident pastors, with its mission house completed in 1984 under Fr. John Flynn, SMA. Over the years, Sacred Heart Parish has been blessed with dedicated priests, catechists, and lay leaders, producing several priests and religious, including Frs. Stephen Danso, Emmanuel Tabi Gyansah, Dominic Antwi Boasiako, Augustine Nsiah Asante, John Forkuo, Joseph Donkor, Marcellinus Edward Tangviel, and Sr. Beatrice Coffie. Their witness stands as a testament to the parish’s strong spiritual heritage.