Kumasi, Dec. 11, GNA - The Most Reverend Peter Kwasi Sarpong, Emeritus Metropolitan Catholic Archbishop of Kumasi, on Friday celebrated his 50 years in the priesthood with a special thanksgiving for God's immense blessings.

At the thanksgiving mass at the Saint Peter's Cathedral Basilica, hundreds of people from all walks of life were present to share in the joy of the occasion. Among them were a 94 year-old Nigerian, Igbo Kwe and his wife, colleague Archbishops, relatives and the laity. A congratulatory message sent by the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, was read by the Most Rev Thomas Kwaku Mensah, Metropolitan Archbishop of Kumasi. The 76 year old Emeritus Archbishop said he was grateful to Christian and Islamic religious leaders, chiefs, politicians, and the church for the support, respect, admiration and encouragement they gave him in the work of the Lord.

He called on the public to support him in prayers so that he would continue to truly serve as a faithful priest to the end. The Most Rev Anthony Adanuty, Catholic Bishop of Keta-Akatsi in the Volta Region, in a homily, said working in God's ministry was fraught with challenges and people who had not received a calling but forced themselves into it ended up quitting.

"Fear and doubts make it difficult to become a Bishop. But through all the difficulties, Emeritus Archbishop Sarpong has been able to establish good relationship with God," he said. He prayed for God's continued guidance for Rev. Sarpong so that he would live longer to share his spiritual experiences and knowledge with the church.