The Catholic Diocese of Wa is mourning the loss of a devoted shepherd, Rev. Father Stephen Kantubog, who passed away yesterday at the Upper West Regional Hospital at the age of 72 after a protracted illness.
The Diocese issued a statement directed to all Parishes, Institutions, Religious Committees, and the faithful, announcing the death. Bearing the seal of the Catholic Bishop of Wa, Most Rev. Francis Bomansaang M.Afr, the message offered solace, stating: “We continue to share the firm trust that the Lord whom Rev. Fr. Stephen Kantubog faithfully served will grant him the peace of his kingdom.”
A Life Dedicated to Service and Kindness
Father Kantubog, a native of Owlo in the Daffiama Bussie Issa District of Ghana, was celebrated for his deep devotion and commitment to serving others. His family, in their expression of grief, described him as “a mentor, a coach, a source of endless love and kindness, among others.”
They highlighted the profound impact of his life, noting he lived “with deep faith, kindness, sacrifice. He gave so much of himself to others.” The family affirmed his unwavering dedication to his vocation: “He indeed lived the word of God that he preached as a Roman Father.”
The priest was widely known for his special care for the vulnerable and children in society. At the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Daffiama, where he once served, he was affectionately nicknamed “Kontonle,” a term he used with the children in the area, illustrating his bond with them.
Legacy of Unity and Generosity
Beyond his ministry, Father Kantubog was a pillar of his own family. The family statement revealed his efforts to maintain their cohesion: “Fr. Kantubogi acted in ways to unite and see to the progress of the Kantubogi family, ensuring that a family gathering was organised at the end of every year, usually on ‘Holy Family’ day, to fraternalise and discuss key family issues.”
He was further remembered as a profoundly generous person who “sacrificed greatly his personal comfort and resources for the good of all.”
