The Anglican Diocese of Tema commemorated the Mass of Chrism on Maundy Thursday, April 2, 2026, with a stirring call for Christians to embody Christ-like love in their daily lives. The service, held at SS Alban and Matthew Cathedral, was celebrated by the Diocesan Bishop, Rt Rev’d George Kotei Neequaye.
Delivering the sermon, Bishop Neequaye centered his message on John 13:34–35, where Jesus gives what he described as a “new commandment” to love one another. He explained that while the call to love is not new in itself, its depth and standard have been radically transformed in Christ.
“The commandment is new not in time, but in quality,” he noted, drawing from the Greek term kainos. “The standard is no longer ‘love your neighbour as yourself,’ but ‘as I have loved you.’ This is a call to a radical, self-giving love modeled on Christ.”
The Bishop emphasized that this love transcends all social, ethnic, and economic boundaries, forming what he described as a “love-centered community
Expounding on the nature of this love, Bishop Neequaye described it using the Greek term agape—a selfless, sacrificial love. He outlined practical expressions of this love, including sacrificial living, humility in service as demonstrated in Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet, unconditional forgiveness, and steadfast commitment to others.
He further stressed that love in the Christian community must be shown irrespective of one’s status in the Church or society. “We must remember that we will all go to the same ground when we die,” he said, urging believers to practice humility and equality in their relationships.
Offering practical examples, the Bishop encouraged congregants to intentionally reach out to those often overlooked—such as greeting and sitting with people they do not usually interact with, supporting members in need regardless of their social standing, and showing kindness beyond familiar circles.
Calling for genuine and impartial expressions of fellowship, he cautioned against selective love, particularly during the sharing of the peace. He urged worshippers not to limit their gestures of peace to only the wealthy or well-known, but to extend it warmly to everyone present.
He also challenged clergy to lead by example, warning priests against lording their positions over others. Instead, he urged them to embody servant leadership by being accessible, listening to their congregations, and serving with humility.
Highlighting the depth of Christ’s love, Bishop Neequaye called on Christians to forgive at all times, even when it is difficult, as a true mark of discipleship.
“We are called to be that community today,” he urged. “A community where love is visible, tangible, and transformative—so that by this, all will know that we are Christ’s disciples.”
During the liturgy, the Bishop also blessed the sacred oils—the Oil of Chrism, the Oil of Catechumens, and the Oil of the Sick—which will be used throughout the year in sacramental ministries across the diocese, including baptisms, confirmations, ordinations, and anointing of the sick.
The Mass of Chrism, a significant observance in the Anglican calendar, brought together clergy and laity from across the diocese, reaffirming their commitment to ministry and service as they prepare for the Easter celebrations.
We Will All Go to the Same Ground: Bishop Urges Love Without Distinction
The Anglican Diocese of Tema commemorated the Mass of Chrism on Maundy Thursday, April 2, 2026, with a stirring call for Christians to embody Christ-like love in their daily lives. The service, held at SS Alban and Matthew Cathedral, was celebrated by the Diocesan Bishop, Rt Rev’d George Kotei Neequaye.
Delivering the sermon, Bishop Neequaye centered his message on John 13:34–35, where Jesus gives what he described as a “new commandment” to love one another. He explained that while the call to love is not new in itself, its depth and standard have been radically transformed in Christ.
“The commandment is new not in time, but in quality,” he noted, drawing from the Greek term kainos. “The standard is no longer ‘love your neighbour as yourself,’ but ‘as I have loved you.’ This is a call to a radical, self-giving love modeled on Christ.”
The Bishop emphasized that this love transcends all social, ethnic, and economic boundaries, forming what he described as a “love-centered community
Expounding on the nature of this love, Bishop Neequaye described it using the Greek term agape—a selfless, sacrificial love. He outlined practical expressions of this love, including sacrificial living, humility in service as demonstrated in Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet, unconditional forgiveness, and steadfast commitment to others.
He further stressed that love in the Christian community must be shown irrespective of one’s status in the Church or society. “We must remember that we will all go to the same ground when we die,” he said, urging believers to practice humility and equality in their relationships.
Offering practical examples, the Bishop encouraged congregants to intentionally reach out to those often overlooked—such as greeting and sitting with people they do not usually interact with, supporting members in need regardless of their social standing, and showing kindness beyond familiar circles.
Calling for genuine and impartial expressions of fellowship, he cautioned against selective love, particularly during the sharing of the peace. He urged worshippers not to limit their gestures of peace to only the wealthy or well-known, but to extend it warmly to everyone present.
He also challenged clergy to lead by example, warning priests against lording their positions over others. Instead, he urged them to embody servant leadership by being accessible, listening to their congregations, and serving with humility.
Highlighting the depth of Christ’s love, Bishop Neequaye called on Christians to forgive at all times, even when it is difficult, as a true mark of discipleship.
“We are called to be that community today,” he urged. “A community where love is visible, tangible, and transformative—so that by this, all will know that we are Christ’s disciples.”
During the liturgy, the Bishop also blessed the sacred oils—the Oil of Chrism, the Oil of Catechumens, and the Oil of the Sick—which will be used throughout the year in sacramental ministries across the diocese, including baptisms, confirmations, ordinations, and anointing of the sick.
The Mass of Chrism, a significant observance in the Anglican calendar, brought together clergy and laity from across the diocese, reaffirming their commitment to ministry and service as they prepare for the Easter celebrations.
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