Behold Thy Mother Foundation Celebrates Christmas with Elderly Mothers in Assin Manso

Introduction

In the spirit of the festive season, acts of charity and community support take center stage across the globe. In Assin Manso, a significant event unfolded that combined religious devotion with tangible social welfare. The Behold Thy Mother Foundation, led by Rev. Father David Obeng Paintsil, organized a special Christmas celebration dedicated to elderly mothers in the Central Region of Ghana. This initiative not only provided immediate relief through gifts and health screenings but also marked a major milestone in the life of the founder. By integrating the celebration with his 20th Priesthood Anniversary, Father Paintsil highlighted the enduring connection between faith, service, and the dignity of the elderly.

Life Pulse Daily covers this inspiring story, exploring how the collaboration with the Global Rosary Network brought hope, health, and joy to the vulnerable population of Assin Manso.

Key Points

Background

The Behold Thy Mother Foundation

The Behold Thy Mother Foundation is a charitable organization rooted in the Catholic faith. Its name is inspired by the biblical command given by Jesus to the Apostle John, “Behold your mother” (John 19:27), symbolizing a commitment to caring for the vulnerable, specifically elderly women. Under the leadership of Rev. Father David Obeng Paintsil, the foundation has evolved from a spiritual ministry into a vehicle for tangible social intervention. The organization focuses on alleviating poverty, improving health outcomes, and providing spiritual and emotional support to senior citizens who often face neglect.

The Global Rosary Network

This initiative was executed in close collaboration with the Global Rosary Network. This entity is described as a “digital ministry” that utilizes modern technology to unite thousands of Catholics worldwide in the daily recitation of the Rosary. By leveraging digital platforms, the network fosters a community of prayer that translates into physical acts of charity. Father Pius Gyasi Acquah, a coordinator for the network, emphasized that this prayer foundation serves as the fuel for their outreach programs.

The Significance of Assin Manso

Assin Manso is a historic town in the Central Region of Ghana. It is known for its slave heritage sites and agricultural activity. However, like many rural areas in Ghana, it faces challenges regarding healthcare access and social welfare for the aging population. The choice of Assin Manso as the venue for this event underscores a strategic focus on reaching communities where the need for elderly care is most pressing.

Analysis

A Dual Celebration: Ministry and Milestone

The event was unique because it served a dual purpose. It was not merely a seasonal charity drive but a celebration of two decades of dedicated priesthood by Father Paintsil. Benjamin Ussher Blay (Esq.), a director of the foundation, noted that combining the Christmas party with the 20th-anniversary celebration added a layer of gratitude. The distribution of hampers was framed as a “token of appreciation” from the priest to the mothers for their prayers over the last 20 years. This framing transforms the transaction from a simple donation into a reciprocal relationship of spiritual support.

Social Stigma and Elderly Abuse

A critical analysis of the event reveals a deep engagement with a pervasive social issue in Ghana: the stigmatization of elderly women. Father Pius Gyasi Acquah explicitly criticized the cultural tendency to label older women as “witches” to explain misfortunes. This stigma often leads to the abandonment or abuse of elderly women. By addressing this directly, the foundation is not just providing material goods but also engaging in advocacy and social re-education. The analysis suggests that charity must be holistic—addressing both physical needs and the social dignity of the recipient.

The Intersection of Faith and Public Health

The inclusion of Dr. (Med) Gloria Francisca Nuer-Allornuvor, a gynecologist at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, highlights the intersection of faith-based initiatives and professional medical care. The presence of a medical professional moves the event beyond “feel-good” charity into the realm of public health intervention. This collaboration suggests that religious organizations in Ghana are increasingly recognizing their role in preventive healthcare, particularly for the aging demographic.

Key Points

The core message of the event can be broken down into actionable insights for the community:

The Power of Collective Prayer

The Global Rosary Network demonstrates how virtual communities can mobilize real-world resources. The organizers believe that their collective prayer is the spiritual engine behind their ability to fund and organize events like the Assin Manso celebration.

Accountability in Charity

Benjamin Ussher Blay emphasized transparency regarding future plans. By stating, “We have plans, and hope that sooner or later, it will be rolled out for people to see that their contributions are being used appropriately,” the foundation addresses a common concern in charitable giving: donor trust. This signals a professional approach to non-profit management.

Reframing Aging

The event actively reframes the narrative around aging. Instead of viewing the elderly as burdens, the foundation celebrates them as “mothers” deserving of honor. This shift is crucial for changing community attitudes.

Practical Advice

How to Support the Elderly in Your Community

Based on the recommendations of the organizers, here are practical steps individuals can take to support the elderly:

• Organize Small Gatherings: You do not need a large foundation to make an impact. A simple birthday party or meal for an elderly neighbor can combat isolation.
• Facilitate Health Access: Offer transportation to local clinics for check-ups or help organize basic health screenings.
• Combat Stigma: Actively speak out against the labeling of elderly women as witches. Promote narratives of respect and dignity.
• Provide Basic Necessities: Simple gifts like clothing or food hampers, especially during holidays, make a significant difference.

Health Tips for Aging Gracefully

Dr. Nuer-Allornuvor provided specific medical advice for the aging population and their caregivers:

• Regular Check-ups: Aging bodies change rapidly. Routine medical reviews are essential to catch issues early.
• Medication Adherence: If diagnosed with a chronic condition (e.g., hypertension, diabetes), it is vital to take prescribed medications religiously. Denying or avoiding medication leads to complications.
• Acceptance of Treatment: Do not view medication as a sign of weakness. It is a tool for maintaining quality of life.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Christmas celebration organized by the Behold Thy Mother Foundation in Assin Manso serves as a powerful example of integrated community service. By combining the celebration of Father David Obeng Paintsil’s 20th Priesthood Anniversary with tangible support for the elderly, the event provided more than just gifts; it restored dignity and advocated for a shift in societal attitudes toward aging. The collaboration between the foundation and the Global Rosary Network illustrates how faith-based organizations can effectively mobilize resources to address specific social needs. As the foundation looks toward the future with plans for a dedicated health facility, this event stands as a testament to the impact of consistent, compassionate service.