The Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Wa, Very Rev. Fr. John Kuupiel, has called on young people to embrace justice as the foundation for fairness, peace, and respect for others. Speaking during the Tamale Provincial Youth Study Session in Wa, he emphasized that without justice, there can be no peace.

He encouraged the youth to act fairly and uphold justice in their interactions, referencing Pope Leo XIV’s remarks to the Vatican judiciary that justice requires respect for the rights of every individual and must be lived out in all relationships.
Fr. Kuupiel stressed that true justice is rooted in fidelity to truth and fairness within the community, adding that proclaiming the Word of God without practicing justice strips it of its transformative power.
He urged youth executives, representatives, and chaplains across the five dioceses Wa, Damongo, Yendi, Tamale, and Navrongo-Bolgatanga to be fair to themselves and others, noting that justice is inseparable from peace. He explained that peace is not merely the absence of war and violence but requires young people to actively prevent all forms of violence, whether physical, psychological, or structural.

The Tamale Provincial Youth Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Boris Charles Tengabo, highlighted the theme of the 2026 Provincial Study Session: “A Synodal Church at the Service of Justice and Peace in Ghana.” He emphasized the important role of young people in promoting justice and peace, noting that they can generate ideas and take initiatives to maintain peace wherever they find themselves.
Fr. Boris added that youth voices and platforms are powerful tools for reaching others and developing solutions to challenges at various levels outstation, parish, diocesan, provincial, and national thereby contributing to justice and sustaining peace.
Fr. Boris expressed confidence in the youth, stating that they have much to offer both the Church and society. He explained that working with young people requires not only resources but also strong support systems. He emphasized the need for a positive attitude toward the youth, encouragement, and proper guidance, alongside the necessary resources, to help them thrive and contribute meaningfully to the mission of the Church and the development of society.

Francis Edward Dongyiri/ Catholic Standard News reporter