The Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie has called for attention to be paid to persons whose work keeps them on the Sea.
The Archbishop lamented the poor working conditions of Seafarers who he described as a key part of the food supply chain of humanity.
His call comes on the occasion of the climax of the centenary celebration of the Apostleship of the Sea.
The Archbishop in a Eucharistic celebration to mark the event at the St. Peters Catholic Church, Tema-New Town on July 12, expressed worry over what he described as the non-recognition of the work of Seafarers.
The Archbishop highlighted the difficulties persons working on the sea go through on sea which is on the blind side of many.
He noted that despite these difficulties, this group of workers strives to provide many with fish among others for consumption. He encouraged individuals to pray for all Seafarers and their families.
Archbishop Kwofie further called on employers and vessel owners to consider the working condition of their employers at sea.
He spoke against employers who inflict injustice on their workers.
The prelate also called on the government to enact laws that protect local fishermen.
The Apostleship of the Sea also known as Stella Maris (Star of the Sea) is an international Catholic Organization celebrated on the second Sunday of July. This apostolic work, as part of its evangelization, seeks the pastoral, spiritual, humanitarian and psychological well-being of seafarers, fisher-folks and their families and by extension all those working in the maritime industry.
The organization operates directly under the Pontifical Council for Migrants and itinerants people at the Vatican and sits directly under the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development headed by Cardinal Peter Appiah Turkson.
In almost every country bound by sea, there exists a community of people who care for Seafarers, fishers, and their families regardless of their country or culture. The centenary celebration was launched in October 2019.
Source: Catherine Bertieroh Dery // Radio Angelus
