Freetown, August 9, 2023 – In a solemn announcement, the passing of Most Rev. Joseph Henry Ganda, Archbishop emeritus, has left a somber mark on Sierra Leone and the global Christian community.
Archbishop Ganda breathed his last at 6 a.m. today within the walls of Choithrams Hospital, Hill Station, Freetown. His departure comes after a valiant battle with illness over the past few months.
Archbishop Ganda’s contributions to the Church in Sierra Leone have been nothing short of remarkable.
Known for his unwavering dedication and devotion, he played a pivotal role in shaping the development of the Catholic Church within the nation. His profound impact resonates not only within Sierra Leone but also echoes across the globe as a testament to his lifelong commitment to serving God and His people.
As we bid farewell to this revered servant and disciple of God, plans for his funeral are yet to be finalized and will be announced in due course. In the interim, the faithful are urged to join in giving thanks for Archbishop Ganda’s extraordinary life and tireless efforts, and to offer prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul.
“Sierra Leone, the Catholic Church, and Christianity at large have lost a dedicated and devoted luminary. Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Henry Ganda’s profound influence will forever remain etched in our hearts. His Grace’s journey from this earthly realm to God’s embrace is a testament to his unwavering faith,” stated Samura Kamara, leader of Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), in a poignant tribute on social media.
As we mourn the passing of Archbishop Ganda, let us reflect upon his enduring legacy and the indelible mark he leaves upon the spiritual landscape of Sierra Leone and beyond. May his soul find eternal rest in the presence of the Almighty.
