Archbishop Emeritus, Rev Dr Peter Kwasi Sarpong, has penned expositions of Catholic virtues, Christian faith and social values in two new books: "Virtues" and "The Old and Young Priest."

The books eloquently explore and shed light on the themes of personal priesthood experiences of the Emeritus and societal morals to be upheld for smooth running of society. 

An event to launch the books served as a focal point for celebrating Archbishop Sarpong's 91st birthday.

At a colourful event in Kumasi, graced by members of the Christian clergy and dignitaries, chiefs, business leaders and social executives, the two books were outdoored.

They reflected the life experiences of Archbishop Peter Kwasi Sarpong and how to work as a catholic reverend.

Faces of the young and old believers of the catholic faith were adorned with smiles as they listened to some excerpts of the books at the event.

The six-chapter in “The Old and Young Priest” which opens with a prologue and closes with an epilogue is an attempt to emphasise the experiences, challenges, and perspectives of both seasoned and newly ordained priests within the Catholic Church.

The book, jointly authored by Archbishop Sarpong and Rev Derrick Eyram Senanu, discusses mentorship, the adoption of Christ-like principles and the passing down of roles and responsibilities within the priesthood.

Co-author, Derrick Eyram Senanu of St Theresa’s Parish, indicated that the book will expose young priests to values worthy of emulation. 

“I'm just 9 years in the ministry, and not in the capacity to advise. The journey started in 2019. I have been privileged to be part of the adult conversations. The respectable bishops here have fought their own battles. Their achievements are behind them.

“If you don't learn history, you become a complainant of systems and develop a mentality of entitlement. A new driver knows all the rules, but an old driver knows all the potholes. The old here is not for the aged. Nor the young for young people. It is an attempt to write a generational book,” he said. 

Meanwhile, the book, “Virtues” captures moral principles and qualities to guide readers' character and develop virtuous behaviours. 

Kwamohene, Nana Owusu Annim, who represented the Asantehene, was thrilled about the efforts taken to pass on proper behavior to the "seemingly corrupted young population".   

“I am very happy that efforts are being made to guide young people. We can attest to many young people going astray. The lack of values is becoming a norm. The values we endured in the olden days have been corrupted by modern trends. 

“We shouldn't lose our tradition and heritage. And pastors are liable. They hold the responsibility to help sustain our cultures,” he said. 

The book launch was encapsulated with a colourful  91st birthday celebration of the Archbishop.

Chairperson of the event, Chief of Mpehin in the Offinso Traditional Area,  Nana Raymond Osei Sarpong, celebrated the Archbishop for penning down his experiences and inspiration in books.

“The Archbishop had been a prolific author throughout his long years of existence. He has published innumerable materials on the diversity of thoughts. 

“In the book, Virtues, I like the parts that say 'If you ask me what are the ways to God, I will tell you, the first is humility. The second is humility. And the third is humility',” he said.