On 29th March, 2025, the activities to celebrate the 25th anniversary of St. Augustine Millennium Major Seminary (SAMS) were officially launched and inaugurated at the premises of the seminary located at Sahakpaligu, near Tamale.
The Bishop of Damongo Diocese Most Rev. Peter Paul Angkyier, performed the launch of the anniversary which is under the theme, “SAMS@25: Forming Priests for the World Today – The Role of Philosophical Formation.”
The Bishop later unveiled the 25th-anniversary project, namely the acquisition of a 33-seater bus for the seminary. A fundraising event was organised to support the initiative.
Earlier, Bishop Angkyier had blessed and commissioned a newly constructed 12-unit dormitory block for the seminary as part of the anniversary activities.
Very Rev. Father Jerome Damnyag, the immediate past Rector speaking prior to the ceremony, acknowledged the immense support from Friends of SAMS, a benevolent group, individuals, and the Bishops of the Tamale Ecclesiastical Province, who contributed to fund the project.
“This beautiful dormitory was built with the support of Friends of SAMS, generous individuals, and the Bishops. It provides single-room accommodations to enhance the living conditions of seminarians,” he said.
The current Rector of SAMS, Very Rev. Father Daniel Fuseini Saaka, provided a brief history of the institution, highlighting its evolution, achievements, and challenges. He said the seminary was established in September 2000, with 18 young men, supervised by three Formators.
“At the time, the institution had only one incomplete structure, no electricity, and no water supply. The early seminarians contributed by digging to extend piped water from the main road and assisting the Volta River Authority in installing electricity poles to bring power” he stated.
The Rector disclosed that over the past 25 years, the seminary has trained over 800 individuals, many of whom now serve as priests within and outside Africa.
Highlighting the impact of the seminary and its contributions to society, he said, “Many of our graduates are serving within Africa and beyond”.
He also mentioned some of their key challenges. They include scarcity of water, lack of an administration block, library, storeroom, and a school bus.
Rev. Father Robert Quarshie Amegah, Assistant Headmaster (Administration) of St. Charles Minor seminary Senior High School, one of the pioneer seminarians in a goodwill message on behalf of his colleagues, expressed their gratitude and pride in their alma mater.
“This moment calls for reflection, thanksgiving, and a renewed commitment to the great vision of the seminary. Despite the challenges we faced, we remained steadfast. Perseverance and discipline in answering God’s call are key,” he emphasized.
Other planned activities of the anniversary which will be climaxed on 22nd November, 2025,
include three lectures, seminarians’ forum with the youth, a clean-up exercise, as well as fun games and open day.
The anniversary launch was preceded by the celebration of Holy Mass presided over by Bishop Angkyier, and concelebrated by Most Rev. Philip Naameh, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Tamale, and many priests.
In his homily, Bishop Angkyier emphasized the importance of prayer, humility, and self-acceptance, urging seminarians to uphold good conduct.
“The training we provide is aimed at holistic human maturity. Through sociology, psychology, critical thinking, and spiritual guidance, we prepare seminarians for their future roles. Prayer, humility, and self-acceptance foster growth, not just during Lent but throughout the Christian journey,” he stated
Source:Fiilafmonline/Walkiyatu Issahaku
