Kpedze (V/R), Aug. 30, GNA - Most Reverend Francis Lodonu, Bishop of the Ho Diocese of the Roman Catholic (R.C) Church, on Saturday launched the Church's "Year for Priests", (19 June 2009 -19 June 2010) in the Volta region at Kpedze.

The year instituted by Pope Benedict XIV was "to deepen the commitment of all Priests to interior renewal for the sake of more forceful and incisive witness to the Gospel in today's world," Bishop Lodonu said at the ordination of four priests into the Church. They were Reverends Valerius I. Kosikojo Mensah, Anthony Delali Azah, Mathew Kwami Mensah Akoni and Simon Peter Esiawonam Koku Dagadu. Bishop Lodonu said the period would among others feature discussions on priesthood and the functions of priests, "how to support our Priests towards their spiritual growth and holiness, upon which the effectiveness of their ministry particularly depends". He admonished the new Priests to meditate deeply on what they do, exercise self control, uphold spirituality, be compassionate and always remember that they were chosen from among the people and should be selfless in their stewardship.