BY: ABRAHAM DONKOR
Bishop Francis Anani Kofi Lodonu, a Ghanaian Roman Catholic Bishop, is commemorating an extraordinary milestone in his life as he celebrates his 50th anniversary as a bishop.
Known for his unwavering dedication to the church and his tireless efforts in serving the faithful, Bishop Lodonu’s journey has been one of deep faith, commitment, and remarkable achievements.
Born on November 19, 1937, in the town of Gbi Atabu, near Hohoe, Bishop Lodonu’s early years were marked by his profound connection to his Catholic upbringing.
His education began at Gbi-Atabu Roman Catholic School, followed by the Roman Catholic Boys School at Gbi Bla. After completing his primary and elementary education, he continued his studies at the Bishop Herman College in Kpando, where he pursued his second cycle education.
Bishop Lodonu’s vocation to the priesthood led him to St. Peter’s Regional Seminary in Cape Coast, where he studied Philosophy and Theology from 1958 to 1964. It was on May 18, 1964, that he was ordained as a priest by Bishop Anthony Konings, the same bishop who had baptized him as an infant in December 1937.
Following his ordination, he assumed the role of Assistant Parish Priest at Ho Sacred Heart Church, embarking on a journey of service that would shape the course of his life.
Seeking to expand his knowledge and fulfill his bishop’s directive, Bishop Lodonu pursued higher education at the University College of Cork in Ireland, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography, Sociology, and History. His studies were complemented by a strong focus on Latin, which further equipped him to impart knowledge and guidance to others.
Bishop Lodonu’s service to the Catholic Church continued to flourish as he took on various appointments and responsibilities. From serving as an Assistant Headmaster and chaplain at St. Paul Secondary School in Viepe-Aflao (Denu) to assuming the roles of Vice Rector and Rector of St. Mary’s Minor Seminary in Lolobi, his commitment to education and spiritual leadership was evident. He also held positions as Rector and Headmaster of St. Mary’s Seminary Secondary School, where he dedicated himself to shaping the minds and hearts of young students.
On June 29, 1973, Bishop Lodonu received the great honor of being consecrated as a bishop in St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, by Pope Paul VI. His consecration marked the beginning of his tenure as Auxiliary Bishop to the Rt. Rev. Anthony Konings, the Bishop of Keta Diocese.
In August 1976, he assumed the role of Diocesan Bishop of Keta-Ho, which involved leading and shepherding the faithful in the Volta region.
Throughout his tenure, Bishop Lodonu has overseen numerous initiatives aimed at fostering spiritual growth, education, health, and peace within the region. Notably, he played a vital role in the establishment of many Parishes in the Keta-Ho and Ho Dioceses, the establishement of Vocational Schools in the entire Volta and Oti Regions, the building and establishment of basic schools in the Volta and Oti Regions, the acquisition and management of St. Agatha’s Commercial College, the building and the establishment of Health Centres, Clinics and Hospitals in the Volta and Oti Regions. The construction of the Diocesan Secretariat in Ho, the Construction of a Pastoral and retreat Centre in Sokode, and the building of guests house in Ho.
The nurturing of the Congregation of the Sisters of Mary Mother of the Church (SMMC) into maturity, the establishment of a Religious Congregation of Men called the Franciscan Friars, and the establishment and building of a religious and retreat home called, the Foyer de Charite.
His dedication to fostering dialogue and understanding has been exemplified through his involvement in peace negotiations between the Peki and Awudome Communites, and the Nkonya and Alavanyo communities.
Bishop Lodonu’s exceptional contributions have not gone unnoticed. In recognition of his outstanding service to the Christian faith, he was honored with the prestigious Order of the Volta by the Government of Ghana in July 2006, 2013 and 2018.
As Bishop Francis Anani Kofi Lodonu reaches this significant milestone in his spiritual journey, he continues to inspire and uplift the Catholic community with his profound faith, compassionate leadership, and unwavering commitment to the values of the Church.
His legacy serves as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and service, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of the faithful he has touched throughout his 50 years as a bishop.