The Story of Our Lady Queen of Africa (OLA) Parish, Bolgatanga

Our Lady Queen of Africa Parish, affectionately known as OLA Parish, has grown from humble beginnings into one of the most vibrant and spiritually dynamic Catholic communities in the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Diocese. The Parish's story is one of faith, perseverance, service, and collective dedication.

The Humble Beginnings

The roots of OLA Parish trace back to a small Christian prayer and choir group that met at Azika’s House in Tindonmolgo. This close-knit community faced many challenges in their mission to grow and spread the Gospel. However, their unwavering dedication, along with the support of Fr. Richard Achambault (then Vicar General), and the leadership of Madam Paulina Awuni and Mr. Stephen Anafo, led to a steady rise in membership, unity, and enthusiasm.

Moved by their commitment, Fr. Achambault initiated steps toward establishing a new parish—an idea aligned with the vision of the then Bishop, Most Rev. Lucas Abadamloora of blessed memory.

Formal Establishment and Early Growth

In June 1995, an interim committee was formed to oversee the creation of the parish. Their tireless efforts culminated in the celebration of the first Mass on Holy Trinity Sunday, 11th June 1995. Due to rain, services moved from tents to Zamse Senior High/Technical School’s premises.

By July 30, 1995, Bishop Abadamloora visited the young parish, planting the first tree and confirming over 200 faithful—marking a major spiritual milestone.

The name Our Lady Queen of Africa was chosen after much debate and a vote, prevailing over the alternative,Holy Trinity Parish.

Geographical Reach and Outstations

The central parish community was defined to include Damweo, Pobaga, Tindonmolgo, Tindonsobligo, Kunbangre, and Kalbeo/Basengo, with outstations established in Sherigu, Balungu, Pwalungu, Winkogo, and Arigu. Gambibgo and Kalbeo/Basengo became outstations after the parish was officially created.

Development of Parish Infrastructure

Under the guidance of the Spiritan fathers—particularly Rev. Fr. Patrice Gasser—the parish saw remarkable growth in infrastructure. A Parish House was constructed in 1997 through Fr. Patrice’s leadership and the generosity of both local and international supporters.

In 1999, work began on the Multi-Purpose Hall, which was used for Mass, weddings, and events before completion. A severe storm in 2000 caused significant damage, but the community rallied with support from donors, and the hall was rebuilt.

Fr. Patrice, known for his tireless service, led the construction of churches in Balungu, Pusu-Namongo, Gambibgo, and Sherigu, and established two Mission Houses in OLA and Fumbisi.

Education and Youth Empowerment

In 2003, thanks to support from Jersey Overseas Aid and Fr. Kuha Indyer, the OLA Vocational Centre was established. It trained many youth in trades, helping them become self-sufficient. Unfortunately, the school is currently dormant due to a lack of tutors.

The OLA School Complex, a significant educational initiative, was spearheaded by Mr. George Philip Afulang in 2010 and supported by GETFund. It opened in 2011 with 245 pupils and now hosts over 425 students. It has already achieved notable academic and extracurricular success.

The Parish Education Committee continues to push improvements such as a JHS block, crèche, better water systems, and classroom upgrades.

Spiritual and Social Milestones

OLA Parish has marked several significant spiritual milestones:

• First baptisms (1995–1996)
• First priestly ordination (July 25, 2015)
• Over 5,000 baptized Catholics by 2014
• Foundation of the Jubilee Scholarship Fund in 1999 to support needy students
• Launch of the Parish newsletter, The Spirit, in November 1999

It has also nurtured vocations: priests like Fr. Agame Fredrick and Fr. Maxwell Atuguba; sisters like Sr. Agnes Adongo and Sr. Angela Adimazoya; and seminarians including Rev. Edward Apambilla.

20th Anniversary Celebration

In 2015, OLA Parish celebrated 20 years of existence with the theme: “Celebrating the Fruits of Two Decades of God’s Favour and Collective Dedicated Service.”

The celebrations included a cultural festival, tree planting, praise festivals, charity outreach, and a grand anniversary Mass featuring a photo exhibition and confirmation ceremony.

Leadership and Legacy

Throughout its history, OLA Parish has been served by dedicated priests, catechists, religious brothers and lay staff. Figures like Catechist Joseph Adombilla, Madam Vivian Banguu, and Rev. Bros. Edwin O’Sullivan and Wilfred Agangya (RIP) made lasting contributions to parish life.

Parish Laity and Pastoral Council Chairpersons like Mr. Peter Akuto, Mr. Philip Azumah, and Mr. Irenious K. Angso have also played key roles in steering parish activities.

A Parish Rooted in Faith and Service

OLA Parish’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, community, and dedicated leadership. From humble beginnings to a flourishing Catholic center, the parish continues to inspire and uplift the people of Bolgatanga and beyond.

With nearly three decades of service, OLA Parish looks to the future with hope—committed to evangelism, education, and communal harmony in the spirit of Christ.