“Work Tirelessly for Your Faith, Just as Saints Peter and Paul Did”
… Holy Spirit Cathedral Priest Exhorts Congregation
In a deeply moving and inspiring homily delivered at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Adabraka, Accra, on Sunday, June 29, 2025, Rev. Fr. Joy Senanu Ofori-Kumeni called upon the parishioners to embody the relentless faith and unwavering dedication demonstrated by Saints Peter and Paul, whose feast the Church commemorated on this day.
At the well-attended 9:30 AM Mass, Fr. Ofori-Kumeni’s words resonated powerfully with the faithful, as he drew rich parallels between the lives of these two pillars of early Christianity and the vital importance of committing oneself fully to spiritual growth and service.
“Today, as we celebrate the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, we are given a profound reminder of the shining examples set by these two apostles. They exemplify what it means to be committed followers of Christ, not just in belief, but in action — through tireless labor, sacrifice, and an unshakeable faith,” Fr. Ofori-Kumeni began.
He recounted vivid biblical narratives illustrating the Apostles’ journeys, speaking first of Peter — the “Rock” upon which Christ founded His Church — who laboured steadfastly in Jerusalem before journeying to Rome. Under Emperor Nero’s brutal persecution, Peter remained firm in his mission until his martyrdom.
“Saint Peter, chosen personally by Jesus, was the cornerstone of the early Church. Though he faced doubt and moments of weakness, his faith was ultimately strengthened. He preached boldly despite imprisonment and persistent threats to his life. His leadership and courage under fire are a beacon for all believers,” Fr. Ofori-Kumeni explained.
Turning his focus to Saint Paul, he described Paul’s remarkable transformation — from a zealous persecutor of Christians to a fervent missionary who traversed the Roman Empire to spread the Gospel.
Fr. Ofori-Kumeni said, “Paul’s story is one of radical conversion and relentless dedication. He traveled extensively, establishing churches, nurturing new believers, and enduring hardship after hardship. Even imprisonment and eventual execution in Rome could not deter his mission. His life teaches us about the power of grace and the strength of faith.”
Fr. Ofori-Kumeni then contrasted the Apostles’ selfless devotion with a troubling contemporary trend. He lamented how many today give disproportionate attention to worldly pursuits — education, career advancement, and material success — while neglecting the cultivation of their spiritual lives.
“It grieves me to say that many of us invest far more energy in our secular ambitions than in nurturing our relationship with God,” he said passionately. “We must resist laziness in our faith. Like Peter and Paul, we are called to work tirelessly, to persevere through challenges, and to prioritize our spiritual growth above all else.”
Expanding on this theme, the Priest highlighted the importance of building a faith that endures trials and grows stronger through adversity.
“Peter and Paul were not only hardworking but also courageous. God honored their sacrifices by making them pillars of the Church. Their willingness to suffer — even to the point of death — for the Gospel is the ultimate testimony of faith. This same spirit needs to be alive in each of us today,” he noted.
In his concluding challenge, Fr. Ofori-Kumeni urged the congregation to engage in deep self-reflection and renew their commitment to spiritual discipline and evangelization.
“Let us refuse to settle for lukewarm faith or mediocrity. Like Peter and Paul, let us labor with zeal to deepen our relationship with God, to share the Good News with those around us, and to strengthen the Church community, regardless of the cost or sacrifice involved,” he exhorted.
“Fr. Ofori-Kumeni’s message really struck a chord with me. It reminded me that faith is not a passive state but a vigorous, ongoing commitment that requires our whole heart and effort,” said Anthony Baidoo, a longtime parishioner, who sat close to me during the Mass.
As the congregation exited the Cathedral, animated discussions about the homily’s lessons filled the air. Many expressed determination to apply the teachings to their daily lives.
“This was truly a thought-provoking and inspiring homily,” shared John Mensah, another member of the parish. “It has challenged me to rethink my priorities and to work harder at growing in my faith, just as Saints Peter and Paul did with such courage and dedication.”
The feast of Saints Peter and Paul, marked by Fr. Ofori-Kumeni’s heartfelt exhortation, left the faithful with a renewed sense of purpose to strive tirelessly in their spiritual journey, following the footsteps of these great apostles.
Source: Innocent Samuel Appia
About Author
