By Solomon Gumah
Sahakpaligu (N/R), April 1, GNA – The Saint Augustine Millennium Major Seminary (SAMS) kicked off its 25th anniversary celebrations in Sahakpaligu within the Nanton District of the Northern Region.
The kickoff initiated an eight-month-long festivity, encompassing various events such as public lectures, a seminarians' forum, cleanup drives, recreational games, and an open day, among other things.
The celebration will reach its peak on Saturday, November 22, 2025.
The event was graced by Most Reverend Philip Naameh, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Tamale, along with numerous priests, including the very reverent Vicar General of the Archdiocese, Father Hilary Pogbeyir.
The Most Reverend Peter Paul Angkyier, who serves as the Bishop of the Damongo Diocese, inaugurated the anniversary with the theme: "SAMS @25: Shaping Priests for Contemporary Society – The Significance of Philosophical Education".
As part of the launch, a newly constructed 12-bedroom accommodation block for seminarians and a formator, were handed over along the unveiling of the anniversary project, the purchase a 33-seater bus to ease the transportation challenges confronting the seminary.
The Very Reverend Father DanielFuseiniSaaka, who serves as the Rector of SAMS, addressed those present at the inauguration and recalled the history of the organization, stating, "Exactly twenty-five years have passed since the aspiration to create an independent campus dedicated to philosophical education became a reality."
He stated that "This milestone enables us to reflect upon our origins, celebrate our accomplishments, address the obstacles we've encountered, and outline a course toward achieving the seminary's complete vision."
He said the seminary, which started in September, 2000 with only 18 seminarians and three formators, had seen tremendous growth despite its numerous challenges.
He pointed out the absence of an administrative section, library, bus access, and storage areas as some of the issues faced.
The Very Reverend Father Saaka mentioned that during the last 25 years, over 800 seminarians have passed through the seminary, and approximately 600 of them are currently functioning as priests.
Most Reverend Peter Paul Angkyier, who also presided over the celebration of Holy Mass during the launch, emphasised the importance of reconciliation, growth, transformation, and spiritual renewal, particularly during the Lenten season.
He encouraged the believers to genuinely mend their connection with God through admitting their wrongdoings and pledging to lead an upright life. He also emphasized the importance of harmonious living among neighbors, urging all to work towards peace and solidarity.
Reverend Father Robert Amegah Quarshie, Assistant Headmaster in-charge of Administration, St Charles Minor Seminary Senior High School in Tamale and Member of the pioneer year group of SAMS, who delivered a goodwill message on behalf of his colleagues, commended the Seminary for the training they received.
He said, “As pioneers, we recall with nostalgia the humble beginning of this great institution. We started our journey in the seminary with minimal facilities bathing in the open, eating in the open, and even answering nature’s call in the bush yet through these challenges, we forged strong bonds of brotherhood, resilience and faith.”
He expressed their profound gratitude to the formators of their time, who despite the difficulties, provided them with quality formation, adding that their unwavering commitment, guidance, and exemplary lifestyles shaped them into who they were today.
GNA
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