Tamale: The Catholic Vocation Directors and Directresses Association of Ghana (CAVDAG) has held its 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Tamale, concentrating on enhancing vocation promotion and formation within the Catholic Church. The gathering aimed to foster collaboration, share best practices, and reinforce the association's commitment to the Church's vocation ministry.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event gathered Vocation Directors and Directresses from across the nation under the theme: 'Divine Call and Ecclesial Mediation: Discerning Authentic Vocations in the Contemporary Church.' In a welcome address delivered by the Very Reverend Father Hilary Pogbeyir, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Tamale, on behalf of Most Reverend Philip Naameh, Metropolitan Archbishop of Tamale, the vital role of Vocation Directors and Directresses in guiding young men and women in their journey towards priesthood and religious life was emphasized.
Most Rev. Naameh reminded CAVDAG members of their critical role as the initial point of contact in the formation journey, urging them to recommend only well-disposed candidates. He highlighted the importance of assessing aspirants' intentions to ensure they have the right motives, stressing the need to prioritize the Church's mission over personal considerations. He advised vocation directors to rely on the Holy Spirit's guidance when recommending suitable candidates.
Very Reverend Father Francis Fynn, President of CAVDAG, stated that vocation animators are tasked with guiding and accompanying young people in their spiritual discernment. He noted that ecclesial mediation involves walking alongside young individuals, supporting them through their vocation journey, and assisting them in addressing any spiritual or personal challenges.
In a keynote address, Very Reverend Father Mathias Mornah, a Lecturer and Formator at Saint Victor's Major Seminary, Tamale, emphasized that vocation ministry should focus on helping individuals discover their true calling instead of merely concentrating on recruitment. He pointed out that vocation directors have the responsibility to assist individuals in discerning God's unique plan for their lives, particularly in today's complex social environment.
Most Reverend John Opoku-Agyemang, Episcopal Chairman of Vocations, Seminaries and Chaplaincies and Bishop of the Konongo-Mampong Diocese, along with representatives of other groups, delivered goodwill messages during the opening ceremony.