Archdiocese of Monrovia Youth Participate in Inaugural West Africa Youth Days in Ghana

Event closed.

Archdiocese of Monrovia Youth Participate in Inaugural West Africa Youth Days in Ghana

Event Description

The Catholic youth of the Archdiocese of Monrovia have returned home following their participation in the inaugural West Africa Youth Days (WAYD) 2026, held from September 7–11 at Achimota School in Accra, Ghana. The event was held under the theme: “Take Courage: Young People as Agents and Actors of Hope and Peace in West Africa.” The gathering brought together young Catholics from across the region for prayer, Eucharistic celebrations, catechesis, cultural exchange, fellowship, and reflection on the mission of young people in both the Church and society. The Liberian delegation began its pilgrimage on September 4 with a special send-off Mass at the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Monrovia, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Johnny-Clement Kombo, Archdiocesan Youth Coordinator, and concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Victor Atsu Kokou Gbotso, SVD. In his homily, Fr. Johnny-Clement encouraged the pilgrims to act as witnesses of hope and peace, remain steadfast in their faith, and travel as one united delegation. He also urged them to bring home experiences that would strengthen youth ministry across the Archdiocese. Following the Mass, the delegation embarked on an overland journey through Côte d'Ivoire to Ghana. Despite border formalities and the physical demands of traveling several days by road, the pilgrims remained resolute, arriving safely at Achimota School early on September 7.Upon arrival, the Liberian delegation immediately stood out, as their national flag and distinctive Liberian WAYD shirts became a vibrant fixture among the pilgrims. Initial activities began with Eucharistic Adoration, followed by praise and worship and welcome ceremonies. Pilgrims received their WAYD keepsakes and settled into their accommodations ahead of the formal program. The following day, the Opening Mass was celebrated by Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, Archbishop of Accra, alongside nearly 100 concelebrating priests and more than 2,000 young participants. Reflecting on the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Archbishop Kwofie encouraged the youth to recognize the purpose and dignity of every human life and to actively participate in God's plan.The Opening Ceremony also featured the Vice President of Ghana, Church leaders from across the region, special messages from Pope Leo XIV and other international leaders, as well as dynamic cultural presentations. Throughout the five-day gathering, participants engaged in catechesis, breakout sessions, and discussions focused on critical issues facing Catholic youth today—including social media, digital evangelization, peace, reconciliation, and living out holiness in a secular age. Notably, Liberian pilgrim Margaret C. Mulbah contributed to a breakout session on utilizing social media to foster peace and reconciliation rather than division. Cultural expression was a highlight of the program. During the cultural night, participating nations showcased their traditions through music and dance. The Liberian pilgrims proudly represented their heritage, earning enthusiastic applause from the crowd.Beyond the main venue, Liberian pilgrims joined participants from Ghana and Togo for a parish encounter at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Tema. The visit featured an excursion with the Ghana Naval Service, a boat ride, and a warm cultural reception at the parish, concluding with a Holy Mass celebrated in Christian fellowship. In his homily, Fr. Victor emphasized the importance of love and unity among Africans, calling on young people to build bridges rather than barriers.The WAYD program concluded on September 11 with a penitential walk through Accra and a Closing Mass at the Holy Spirit Cathedral, presided over by Most Rev. Julien Kaboré, Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana. Drawing from his own experience in youth ministry in Korea over two decades ago, the Apostolic Nuncio connected WAYD with preparations for World Youth Day 2027 in Seoul, encouraging West African youth to embrace deeper unity as they look to the future. The President of RECOWA expressed gratitude to Ghana for hosting the historic event and commended the region's Catholic youth for their faithful response. He announced that the next WAYD will take place in three years and will be hosted by a Francophone nation. The Liberian pilgrims began their return journey on September 12, arriving back in Monrovia on September 14. En route, the delegation stopped at the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro, Côte d'Ivoire, where they celebrated Mass and toured the sanctuary.For the Liberian delegation, WAYD 2026 was far more than a road trip to Ghana. It served as a powerful encounter with the broader Catholic family of West Africa—deepening faith, building lasting friendships, and revitalizing youth ministry strategies. Though small in number, the delegation carried Liberia's flag with pride, returning with renewed enthusiasm and a stronger commitment to serving the Church. The Archdiocesan Youth Secretariat remains grateful to the local church for for its moral, spiritual, and financial support offered to the pilgrims. As the journey toward WYD Seoul 2027 begins, the message received in Accra continues to inspire: Young people are called to be courageous agents of hope and peace. “Take Courage: Young People as Agents and Actors of Hope and Peace in West Africa.” By the Archdiocesan Youth Secretariat