Author: Peter Martey Agbeko
With great enthusiasm and heartfelt unity, APSU Western and their cherished HOPSANs once again elevated the St Augustine Feast Day celebrations — this time at the picturesque Princess Town Holy Cross Catholic Church in the Western Region. This year’s commemoration, held on Sunday, August 31, was one for the books.
Renovation, Donations and Thanksgiving Mass
The groundwork for the celebrations was led by Snr. DCFO Anthony Kobla Lawoe (APSU ’58) and his brother-in-law, Snr. Sannichie Arkhurst Quaicoe (APSU ’74), a native of Princess Town, who both rallied support for the project.
As is now tradition, APSU Western not only joined in worship but also left a lasting impact: supporting the renovation of the church and donating clothing and cash to the Holy Cross parish. The highlight was a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by the town’s first Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Sylvester Amakye Quayson, ordained in July 2025 — a moment of profound significance for the community.
Community Spirit and Cherished Moments
Hearts were full, spirits high, and camaraderie unmistakable. One participant shared:
“It was fun, I enjoyed myself and I believe most of us did too. The bus driver was cool… I could see our sisters were happy. They were all looking radiant and gracious.”
Special thanks went to elders who guided the celebration: Snrs. Tony Lawoe, Dr. Ben Kissi Ocran, Henry Sencherey, Tony Ebo Clement and Alex Con Nutsugah — their leadership described as “apt and gyɛ.”
Fort Fredericksburg: A Historic Backdrop
The gathering was crowned with a visit to Fort Fredericksburg (also known as Fort Gross Friedrichsburg), built between 1681 and 1683 with stone shipped from Prussia. Though weathered, its dramatic architecture and panoramic coastal views left participants in awe:
“The Fort, they say travel and see. The scenery, structural design… a masterpiece. Its deplorable state is so evident from yonder.”
The fort, once a hub of the transatlantic slave trade through which an estimated 300,000 Africans passed, now stands as a UNESCO World Heritage monument — a solemn reminder of history’s weight.
Food, Fellowship and Gentle Humour
As always, the food was a highlight, with the kenkey sparking much delight:
“As for the kenkey diiɛɛ, wɔngye, wɔnkrɔss krɔss… some went 5 rounds and more non-stop.”
Laughter came with a playful rebuke, too:
“Our ‘zigging rate has gone down paa oo’. Returning green and brown bottles into the cooler is un-APSU koraa, and it must cease koraa.”
A lighthearted reminder that tradition must be upheld — even in the small things.
Honour, Gratitude and Looking Ahead
Gratitude was expressed to all who made the day memorable: Snr. Bismark Boakye (Presido), Dr. Patrick Quist, Robert Andoh, Snr. Abeiku Garchie, Snr. Lawyer Emmanuel Nyamekye Arthur, Chris Wood, Albert Nana Yaw Mensah (Gaudiola), and the younger APSUnians and Augustinian Harry (Baby APSU), who served diligently by carrying chairs, cleaning, and supporting seniors. Their efforts were celebrated with a resounding “AYEKOOO!”
New friendships were forged with Fr. Sylvester, and bonds across generations deepened. Participants left energised, promising to meet again next year.
A Testament of Faith and Fellowship
The 2025 St Augustine Feast Day in Princess Town was far more than a date on the calendar — it was a vibrant celebration of faith, history, fellowship, and enduring APSUnian bonds. Until next year, may the spirit of St Augustine continue to guide APSU Western and their beloved HOPSANs.
