BURIAL, MEMORIAL AND THANKSGIVING MASS FOR THE LATE
Mrs. Celestina Yaa Ntriwah Twum-Barimah On Saturday 12th March, 2022
70
Years
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BURIAL MASS OF THE LATE
MRS CELESTINA TWUM – BARIMAH (12/03/2022) OFFICIATING CLERGY Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie CSSp Most Rev. Charles Gabriel Palmer - Buckle Very Rev. Fr. Dr. John Louis Very Rev. Fr. Clement Wilson Very Rev. Fr. Samuel Filton Mensah Very Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obeng - Codjoe Very Rev. Fr. Charles Francis Ackon Very Rev. Fr. Francis Oteng Bawuah Very Rev. Fr. Bernard Appiah SVD Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Obeng SVD Rev. Fr. Derrick Dowuona Hammond Rev. Fr. Eric Asagba Rev. Fr. Emmanuel-Mary Ofori Srem Rev. Fr. Boateng
IN ATTENDANCE Holy Spirit Cathedral Choir Holy Spirit Cathedral Youth Choir St. Bakhita Choir Osu Deanery Catholic Church Choirs Association Christ Church Choir -Legon Holy Spirit Cathedral Knights of the Altar Holy Spirit Cathedral Ushers Akan Kuo Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR)
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MUSIC DIRECTORATE Mr. Anthony Kobina Yebuah – Director of Music Mr. John Francis Annan Prof. John Franklin Wiredu Mr. Samuel Eklu Mr. Edward Opoku – Manu Mr. Abednego Botwe Mr. Joseph Lamptey (Jnr.) Mr. Benedict Sackey Mr. Michael Boamah Mr. Benedict Ponte – Kwofie Miss Ruth Amoo Mr. Peter Nii Dan - Okine Mr. Evans Oppong Mr. Ebow Bonney Mr. Ransford Addae Mr. Richard Dorheame Ms. Theodora Yebuah Mrs. Elizabeth Anderson – Yebuah Mr. Francis Aziati Master of Ceremony Mr. Anthony Baidoo
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PA R T I
7AM PRE-BURIAL SERVICE Reception of the body
- Organist (Dead March in Saul)
Opening Hymn
- CH 212 Yes Heaven is the Prize
File Past & Reading of Tributes
- By Individuals & Groups
Songs after each Tribute
- CH 158, 163, 353, 166, 392, 309, 104, 311, Holy City
Reading of biography @ 8.45am
- By the Family
Closing of Casket @ 8.55am
- By the Family
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PA R T I I
9AM BURIAL MASS Processional Hymn
- CH 308 O Christ the Glory
Introit
- CH 374 Through all the Changing Scenes
Kyrie
- Mass of St. Jude
1st Reading
- Wisdom 3: 1 - 9
Responsorial Psalm
- CH 106 The Lord’s my Shepherd
Gospel Acclamation
- Glory and Praise to You
Gospel
- John 11: 17 - 27
Homily
- Clergy
Prayer of the Faithful
- Su frɛ no
1st Collection
- Medley of Agbadza songs
Offertory
- CH 57 & 61
Sanctus
- Mass of St. Jude
Mystery of Faith
- Recite
Great Amen
- Three-Fold Amen
The Lord’s Prayer
- To be sung in Latin
Agnus – Dei
- Mass of St. Jude
Communion
- CH 274, 245, 353
Post Communion Anthem
- And I Saw A New Heaven by F.W. Peace
Post Communion Prayer
- Main Celebrant
2nd Collection
- Medley of songs (Highlife)
Vote of Thanks
- By Family
Announcements
- M.C.
Final Commendation
- All Clergy
Final Blessing
- Main Celebrant
Recession
- Silence
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PA R T I I I
11.30AM PRIVATE BURIAL Opening Hymn
- CH 351 Lead Kindly Light
Blessing of Tomb
- Priest
Interment & Commitment
- Priest
Final Prayers
- Priest
Vote of Thanks
- By family
Benediction
- Priest
Closing hymn
- CH 349 Abide with me
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BIOGRAPHY OF THE LATE MRS CELESTINA YAA NTRIWAH TWUM – BARIMAH “Now Praise we great and famous men, the fathers named in story; And Praise the Lord who now as then reveals in man His glory” (MHB 896) Mrs. Celestina Yaa Ntriwah Twum – Barimah popularly known as ‘Tina’, born on the 3rd of April, 1952 at Obo – Kwahu, was the fourth of six children born to the late Opanyin Koo Awuah and the late Obaa Panyin Comfort Ama Asantewaa (alias Maame Ama) of Obo – Kwahu in the Eastern Region of Ghana. She started her primary school education at St. Andrews Primary School at Ataa Akwei – Accra Central. At age 14, Tina found Christ and was baptized into the Catholic faith on 30th January, 1966 by the late Rev. Father Alfons Merten (SVD) at the Sacred Heart Parish – Derby Avenue in Accra. She received her first Holy Communion also on the same day of Baptism. On 29th May that same year, she was confirmed here at the Holy Spirit Cathedral, Adabraka – Accra by the late Emeritus Bishop Joseph Oliver Bowers SVD. Tina enrolled at the St. Mary’s Secondary School now St. Mary’s High School KorleGonno and from there proceeded to Kumasi Girls. She wrote and passed her GCE A-Level successfully. She took up secretarial courses at CBS afterward, passed beautifully then went on to study stenography at Accra Polytechnic from 1973 to 1975. She was employed as a typist at the then Architectural and Engineering Services Corporation (A.E.S.C.) now Architectural and Engineering Services Limited (A.E.S.L.) in 1975, where she worked for 37 years before retiring. When it came to her work ethic, Tina held on to the principle that if something was to be done, it should be done well. For this reason, she put in every effort to ensure there were no issues with her work and this won her favor in the eyes of her superiors. Her hard work occasioned her continuous promotion at her workplace, yet she remained humble and gentle to all whom
she interacted with. Mrs. Celestina Twum – Barimah lived her Christian life with full participation at Holy Masses and other programs at the Holy Spirit Cathedral and was involved in many physical and spiritual programs that enhanced her Christian life. In her quest to serve God more and to be spiritually inclined to the things of God, she joined the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in 1979 and has since been a member of this vibrant movement. Within this movement, she grew to love the Lord more. She enjoyed prayer sessions, attended and organized various seminars and workshops, evangelized to the sick, poor and aged, led bible discussions and held a number of leadership positions in the Renewal. In her latter years, Tina served as a role model to many young people, especially young couples who were battling with marriage issues. Celestina met the love of her life, by the will of God, through the activities of the Charismatic Renewal. Also a member of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in a sister Parish, Tina tied the knot with the brilliant and handsome John Osei Twum – Barimah, of blessed memory, on 20th April 1985 at the Christ the King Catholic Church, Cantonments – Accra. Their beautiful marriage was blessed by Rev. Fr. Gabriel Charles Palmer – Buckle, now Most Rev. Gabriel Charles Palmer - Buckle (Catholic Archbishop of Cape-Coast). Indeed, this marriage was fruitful and was blessed with three wonderful children; Peter, Paul and Lydia Twum – Barimah whom she loved dearly. She remained a good and faithful wife to her husband and a caring and affectionate mother to her children.
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After the passing of her husband and saddled with 3 young children, Tina did not lose hope. She relied even more heavily on her creator who paved the way for her to successfully raise the children in the way of HIS word. It was not easy, but God saw her through. She spared no chance in instilling Christian values, discipline, respect and above all, love for one another in her home and everywhere she found herself.
from offering a helping hand to all who needed it, young or old. She went to great lengths to ensure she helped everyone who needed it, even if it meant inconveniencing herself. Family and friends alike have all received her help at one point or another which she gladly did because she believed in the word of God which reminds us to do unto others as we would wish them to do unto us.
She continued to serve God actively even after her retirement and made it a point to join at least one society in any parish she worshipped in. A strong woman of prayer, Tina promoted unity and unceasing prayer in all her associations. She was actively involved in the main church choir, the Akankuo and the Catholic Charismatic Renewal at St. Bakhita Catholic Church, Amasaman where she worshipped before her passing. Prior to this, she was a member of the Akankuo at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church at Chantan, where she worshipped before her relocation to Amasaman.
Mrs. Celestina Twum – Barimah was her usual active, healthy and cheerful self until her sudden demise on Wednesday 16th February 2022. Even though we all hurt and grieve her loss, it is our firm belief that the heavens rejoiced at her homecoming. Indeed, she worked hard, she fought a good fight, she has finished the race and awaits the crown of glory from her maker.
She wholeheartedly extended her loving nature to all whom she encountered. Her love for the word of God led her to freely share with anyone who had a listening ear. Tina loved to cook and loved it even more, when she could share her meals with others, no matter how little. She was affable and did not shy away
The Aduana Abusua of Obo – Kwahu has lost a beautiful soul that will be dearly missed. Sleep well, Goodnight, Safe Journey, Da yie wɔ Nyame mu. Have a blissful rest in eternity till we meet again.
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TRIBUTE BY CHILDREN “Give me the wings of faith to rise within the veil and see. The Saints above, how great their joys, how bright their glories be” Catholic Hymn No. 311 Mummy, original Mrs. Twum-Barimah, Mama Tina, Ahoɔfj, Maame Tina, Mama, Mrs. T, were but a few names we called this beautiful soul who lies motionless before us today. She was the greatest gift of God in our lives and the best mum we could have ever asked for. Mum was there for us every step of our way. From our first cries, the loss of our first teeth, our first days at school, and every other milestone we marked, no matter how little they were. It is easy to say that this is done by every mother, but our mother was different. She did all this with so much love that it was evident in her actions. Through thick and thin she was our pillar. After Daddy passed, times became tough, yet she fought to give us the comfort we were accustomed to. She never complained but rather worked hard and prayed even harder for grace to complete the race called life. Mama Tina was selfless, modest, honest, disciplined, and very prayerful. She stood firmly by her Christian values and principles, believing and trusting God both in good and bad times. Such was her faith; unwavering in the sight of adversity or joy; one we aspire to have. She raised us in the Christian way, continuing from where daddy left off. Unceasing prayer, good morals and values, consideration for others, forgiveness, compassion, unity and above all love for others were some of the attributes she stressed during our formative years. We enjoyed our numerous Bible lessons and prayer sessions with her. We always ended them on a high note, with a funny story from her childhood which helped us acknowledge how blessed we are. Showing gratitude to God for his numerous blessings in our lives, therefore, became a daily activity.
She loved the word of God. Every morning and night she read and prayed with it. There was never a day she did not pray. Even when she felt unwell or tired, was when she even prayed more. Quiet time was a necessity. “W’ayj wo quiet time? Wonnyjej aa kсyj seiseiaa.” Our constant reminder. You would think that she would stop asking us this question as we grew older, but she didn’t. She purposefully asked so we do not lose sight of the importance of God in our lives. Like she always said, “Without God, we are nothing.” Her love for the word of God gave her the passion to do HIS work in any way possible. She served the church in many ways and played a part in many groups throughout her lifetime. Her love for prayer led her to join hands with our late father and other spirit filled men and women to nurture the vibrant Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR). Yes, she played a part in the growth of CCR many years ago but kept it quiet because she believed no man could reward her for her work on earth except God. Her face always lit up when she shared the beautiful stories of the activities in those days with her sisters and brothers in Christ. Each time we had to join a new parish due to our relocation, she was always the first one to fit in seamlessly. She remained a faithful member of the CCR, was a member of the parish pastoral council at a point, a leader in some life in the spirit seminars, a facilitator during laity week celebrations held in various parishes, a member of Akankuo and of the choir and many others we cannot list. She received a number of meritorious awards including the noble star award at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Church, Tantra Hill for her exemplary devotion to the work of God. She executed every one of these activities with passion because of her love for the things of God
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and her core belief that “if anything had to be done, it had to be done well.” Mrs. T. was particular about our education. She knew what we could become through education andtherefore did her best to see us through any school we desired. Irrespective of the expense, mummy found ways to ensure we were never put out. There were times we wanted to throw in the towel but she was there to encourage us and assure us of the light at the end of the tunnel. Gods’ grace saw us through and she witnessed our various graduation ceremonies. Her smiles on those days were remarkably wider and we knew she was proud of us. Mummy loved to cook. She would go out of her way to cook our favorite dishes even if it was 9pm. Even when we showed up at home unannounced with friends, she would quickly whip something up in the kitchen and it was as tasty as ever. She enjoyed baking with us. We made it a point to
bake together every year during the yuletide, and many of us gathered here today attest to receiving her wonderful cakes during the season. She loved to help others. Whether or not she was asked for assistance, mummy would happily offer to support family and friends in any way possible. Oftentimes, in order to assist others, she would leave home at the crack of dawn, so she could beat traffic and would get back home very late and visibly tired yet, she would give details of how successful the program was and how glad she was to have attended. We enjoyed our lengthy chats about our lives. She knew our shortcomings: who will leave the dishes undone, who will start something and leave it because they were tired and who will take days to complete one single task. We laughed about this all the time but then she would always advise and encourage us to forge on in all our dealings. As siblings, we did not always agree on the same
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things but ever the peacemaker, she always helped us find a common ground to make decisions. 20 years after dad left us Ma, you join him in heaven to continue worshipping our maker like you both loved to. Indeed, you have built a strong foundation and left us a legacy that we will continue. We wish you lived longer to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living but alas, God knows best. In this moment, we would like to remind us all to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling as the bible tells us, for we do not know the day or hour we will each be called home to account for our deeds. We are eternally grateful to God for all your years on earth with us mummy, and we know that someday we shall meet in paradise. May God grant your beautiful soul a peaceful rest in HIS arms. We will forever miss you Mummy. Ma, dabiara wo ka sj “ebi mo daa yj no, )mo ansore enti sj yjdaso te nkwa mu aa, aseda yj Nyame dea”. Ma, naano wo daayj no, wansore. Awerjhoс
a y’edi dej Ma, bebree, nanso yjwс awerjhyemu sj, wo wс Nyame anim aa worede ehurusie Fare thee well, mummy dearest. Rest in Perfect Peace, Mama Tina. Da Yie Ma!! Ma, Nante Yie!! Till we meet at Jesus’ feet.
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TRIBUTE BY SIBLINGS “You never said I’m leaving, you never said goodbye, you were gone before we knew it and only God knows why” (Author unknown) In April 1952 the Almighty God gave the Aduana Abusua of Obo – Kwahu a gem as a gift. A gift with a kind heart, a selfless gift filled with generosity, fortitude and tenacity of purpose yet humble. Hardly would you find her without an inviting smile. She started schooling at Ataa Akwei in James Town, then to Saint Mary’s at Korley Gonno. She continued to Kumasi Girls then to CBS near the Teachers Hall in Accra. She got employed at AESC now AESL where she worked as a secretary for over three decades before retiring honourably. She got married to Mr. John Osei Twum – Barimah of blessed memory and were blessed with three children. Your sterling qualities came to the fore when you lost your husband some two decades ago. You bravely took charge and brought up the children single handedly. Remember the fight you and I had to endure to help save a brother from his ailment, in the heat of the covid - 19 crisis. You did all that without a frown; bravo sis. You played your part gallantly. Fare thee well Tina, you have fought a good fight. Your life has been a race well run. Yaa Yaa Nante Yie……. Adieu.
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TRIBUTE BY IN-LAWS “The Lord will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning nor crying nor pain any more, for the former things have passed away.” (Rev 21:4) Mummy, as we usually called her, was a wonderful, Godly woman of faith who sought to please the Lord in all that she did. For as long as we can remember, she unceasingly upheld her children and family in prayer daily, which we greatly admired. She welcomed us warmly into her family and spared no chance spoiling us whenever we visited her. Mummy was indeed a delightful person, and without doubt the best mother-In law anyone could ever have or hope for. What made her so special in our eyes was how she single handedly (after the passing of her husband) took care of her children, ensuring they lacked nothing. She made time to show them the way of the LORD in their formative years, and did same for us without hesitation, sharing God’s word with us in every conversation. Our respect, love, and admiration for her grew every day.
Mummy, while your Saturday afternoon special of Fufu and palmnut soup will sorely be missed, what we will miss most, is your sweet and calming voice, reassuring us that, “The Lord is in control of the affairs of man; though we might not understand his ways, they always will be to our benefit.” Standing here today, we still do not know what benefit there is from the loss of a loved one, but what we do know is that God indeed has control over the affairs of men and over time, He will wipe away all our tears. In the sweet by and by, we shall meet on that beautiful shore. Until then, rest well Mummy. From your beloved Nii and Akua.
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TRIBUTE BY SISTERS’ IN CHRIST (JOANA JULLIET APPIAH, MRS GRACE BIRD, MRS. GEORGINA EWUSI – MENSAH, MRS. GEORGINA OWUSU FOURJOUR, LYDIA CODJOE AND IVY DODOO. But God will redeem my life from the grave; He will surely take me to himself (Psalm 49:15) It is indeed a sad moment for us, sorrow fills our hearts as we are deeply saddened by the sudden demise of our dear sister and friend the Late Celestina Yaa Ntriwah Twum –Barimah. Tina, as we affectionately called her was a staunch Catholic and a proud member of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (a spiritual movement in the Catholic Church). As sisters in Christ, we all found the need to define our spiritual growth and affirm our Catholic faith, we became bonded through the formation of the Life in the Spirit seminar, Growth in the Spirit seminar, service team meetings and attending prayer meetings every Thursday at St. Maroun’s Catholic Church – Osu. As a result, we had a bond which went beyond normal church activities hence, sharing in each other’s highs and lows. In recognition of her meritorious and dedicated service towards the Catholic Charismatic Renewal activities she was part of a team that together prayed and shared the word of
God and engaged in merry making from time to time. Tina was a kindhearted person who emotionally connected and empathized with people from near and afar. She was a good listener and provided wise counsel to those who needed it. In February 2022, Tina assured of us of her upcoming birthday party that we were looking forward to attending in her honour as a sign of thanksgiving to God, little did we know it was a goodbye message to join her maker. Oh Tina! Your demise has left an unending void that can never be filled. We were thrown into a state of devastating shock a humble, affable, and generous demeanor. We hope and believe that her good nature and Godliness will lead her to rest in the bosom of Abraham. Mrs. Celestina Twum – Barimah Rest in Perfect Peace!
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TRIBUTE TO THE LATE MRS. CELESTINA TWUM-BARIMAH BY THE CATHOLIC CHARISMATIC RENEWAL Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; You have faith also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places; if there were not would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? (John 14:1-2)
ARCHDIOCESAN LEVEL
her youthful days at the Holy Spirit Cathedral.
The late Mrs. Celestina Twum-Barimah joined the Renewal in the year 1979. She was then a Parishioner of the Holy Spirit Cathedral and fellowshipped with the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) which had then started at the Holy Spirit Cathedral in 1978. Before long she started offering her services as a typist until she was officially designated as the Secretary of the Renewal in the year 1980. In those early years, Bro. Godfred Forson’s house at Asylum Down served as a Secretariat of some sort where most of the leadership meetings were held besides the Holy Spirit Cathedral. A visit to Bro. Godfred Forson’s house was never complete without spotting Tina doing one service or the other for the CCR.
Just as the Renewal was decentralized to the local parishes, Sister Tina got married in the year 1985, and joined the Christ the King Parish and yet fellowshipped with her husband (the late Mr. John Osei Twum Barimah) at the St Maroun’s Catholic Church, Osu local prayer group. At St. Maroun’s she served on the then Local Service Team.
Working then at the Architectural and Engineering Services Corporation (ASEC), Tina besides recording minutes, would also often carry these minutes to her office to type. Besides taking and typing leadership and service team minutes, Tina also used to type the Newsletters of International Catholic Charismatic Renewal Office (ICCRO, the forerunner of (ICCRIS). The Newsletters used to contain invaluable leadership formation materials written by then ICCRO Directors such as Ralph Martin, Fr. Tom Forrest and Fr. Fio Mascrahenas, which were stenciled and cyclostyled for distribution to leaders throughout Accra-Tema. In this way, Tina assisted greatly in our leadership formation programs in the early years of the CCR. She was very instrumental in the provision of information for the 20th year Anniversary celebration of the Renewal in the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra. She was very supportive to her late husband who at a point in time was the Assistant Leader of the Renewal in the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra. Sister Tina was also an active member of the Music Ministry in
Sister Tina was a very quiet person, and yet very friendly. She was a thorough bred Renewal Member who was always ready to counsel the youth. She and her husband the late Mr. John Osei Twum-Barimah made their home very accommodating for all who visited them. When Sis. Tina and her children relocated to Amasaman, she was once in a while visiting the Archdiocesan Secretariat and contributing to support the activities of the Renewal. ST. BAKHTA, AMASAMAN In 2019, when some members of the St. Bakhita Catholic Church, Amasaman decided to revive the Charismatic Renewal at the local level, Sister Tina gladly brought to bear her many years of experience in the Renewal. She joined the leadership and was elected the Treasurer, a position she occupied till her demise. She also joined the Church Choir with the aim of being active in her spiritual life. She offered words of encouragement to all who encountered her. We want to thank the Lord for the life that He gave to our Sister and for the Service that she offered to the Renewal, to the Catholic Church and to our nation Ghana. “If we live, we live for the Lord and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. (Romans 14:8) DEAR SISTER TINA REST IN PERFECT PEACE, TILL WE MEET AGAIN.
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TRIBUTE BY THE ST. BAKHITA CATHOLIC CHARISMATIC RENEWAL, AMASAMAN “Had it not been for His wonderful love, we would have been consumed long ago.” These were the last words you posted on the Whatsapp group page of the St. Bakhita Catholic Church on February 15th, 2022. Little did we know those were farewell messages. The death of Mrs. Celestina Yaa Ntriwah Twum-Barimah came as a surprise to the entire group especially those who encountered her the Sunday prior to her demise. She was seen at the Akan Kuo meeting and later engaged the Local Coordinator of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal on the organization of the Life in the Spirit Seminars (LSS) for the St. Bakhita Catholic Church, Amasaman.
indeed God’s love is so wonderful. That is why your soul will find perpetual happiness in the bosom of the Almighty where you will join the Angelic Choir of heaven to sing Hosanna to the Lord. Rest in Perfect Peace, Madam Tina.
Maa Tina, affectionately called by the members of the Renewal was instrumental in the revival of the Saint Bakhita Catholic Charismatic Renewal. She served as the Treasurer of the Charismatic Renewal, a member of the Singing Ministry and one of its council of elders. Madam Tina offered words of encouragement to all those who encountered her. She was also a committed member of the St. Bakhita Church Choir with the aim of building her spiritual life and remaining in tune with the love of God. Yes, Scanned by TapScanner
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TRIBUTE BY ST. BAKHITA CATHOLIC CHURCH CHOIR - AMASAMAN I have fought a good fight, I have finished a good course, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid for me a crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me on that day. (2 Timothy 4: 7-8) “God never sees his children die; He simply sees them coming home”
Our gathering here today has nothing to do with our normal Choir practice but rather, in ever loving memory of our dear mother, Mrs. Celestina Twum - Barimah whose sudden death occasioned this gathering so that we may acknowledge and share, both our joy in the gift that her life was to us, and the pain that her passing brings. Auntie Tina, as we affectionately called her, joined the Choir in April 2019 at a time when we needed more Choristers. She was indeed a blessing to us when she joined with her sweet treble voice even at her age. Her legacies cannot be forgotten; punctuality to rehearsals and programs, prompt payment of dues and other contributions, and her biblical advice. Mrs. Celestina Twum - Barimah has responded to the call of her Creator to join the Choir of Angels above. Fare thee well Auntie Tina, Until we meet again, Rest well in perfect peace.
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TRIBUTE FROM ST. BAKHITA CATHOLIC CHURCH AMASAMAN. I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, henceforth blessed are the dead which die in the Lord. Even so saith the Spirit for they rest from their labours and their works do follow them. Rev. 14: 13
With heavy heart your parishioners from St. Bakhita Catholic Church mourn your passing into glory from this world of trouble and pain. In heaven you enjoy peace eternal with God. The late Mrs. Celestina Twum-Barimah joined the St. Bakhita Catholic Church about four years ago and was very active in all the activities undertaken in the church. The late Celestina started the Christian journey when she was baptized by Rev. Fr. Alfons Merten (SVD) at the Sacred Heart Parish in Accra on 30th January 1966. She was fourteen years so she received her first communion the same day. She was confirmed on 29th May 1966 at the Holy Spirit Cathedral Accra by Most Rev. Bishop Joseph Oliver Bowers (SVD). The late Mad Celestina contracted holy
matrimony with the late Mr. John Osei TwumBarimah on 20th April 1985 in the presence of Rev. Fr. Charles Palmer Buckle. During her years at St. Bakhita Catholic Church she joined the Akan Kuo community, and the Church Choir. She was also an active member of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal. She was a gentle person with a cool personality and is always full of smiles. She will forever remain in our hearts for the role she played in the church. Fare thee well Celestina. God be with you till we meet again. By his counsels guide, uphold you. With his sheep securely fold you. God be with you till we meet again. CH 339 Damirifa due. Amen.
TRIBUTE BY THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH TO THE LATE MRS. CELESTINA TWUM – BARIMAH Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death (Isaiah 57:1-2). The late Mrs. Celestina Twum–Barimah was an active member of the church until her passing into eternity.
Kuo) and also played an active role in youth affairs and always gave advice behind the scenes.
As an individual, she was an epitome of piety and humility. She was witty, caring, dependable and an honest woman. She showed genuine and undying interest in the growth and expansion of the Immaculate
Death we know will come one day, but we never expected this will be so soon with our mother. We take consolation in the fact that she knew Christ, and did her best to know and serve him, and we know she is resting in the bosom of the Lord.
Heart of Mary Church. Mrs. Celestina Twum–Barimah derived satisfaction in seeing the youth together as a family with a common purpose. She always encouraged unity, peace and forgiveness among members of the Church. She was a member of the Holy Family (Akan
Mrs. Celestina Twum – Barimah, the entire Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church bid you fare well. Damirifa Due!! God be with you.
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TRIBUTE TO THE LATE MRS. CELESTINA TWUM – BARIMAH BY THE MANAGEMENT AND STAFF OF ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING SERVICES LIMITED It is with a heavy heart and tearful eyes that we stand before the mortal remains of our colleague and friend to pay her this tribute. “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under Heaven: A time to be born and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to pluck what was planted”. (Ecclesiastes 3: 1-2)
The late Mrs. Celestina Twum – Barimah was employed as Typist Grade I from September 1, 1975 by AESL and was stationed at Head Office, Accra. On January 1, 1979, she was promoted to the position of Senior Typist and again promoted as Executive Typist and Senior Executive Typist on July 1, 1985 and January 1, 1994 respectively. By dint of hard work and dedication to duty, she was elevated to the position of Principal Executive Typist on July 1, 1995, and Senior Principal Typist on March 1, 1999 after which she was compulsorily retired on April 3, 2012. Mrs. Celestina Twum – Barimah was hardworking, bold, intelligent and open-
minded. She was sociable and highly respected by all staff, both seniors and juniors. Mrs. Twum – Barimah, as Christians, we see death as a comma, not a period. What is important is the grace to live after death. You have run the race and have won the victory. We will forever cherish the fond memories we shared together. Mrs. Twum – Barimah, Management and staff of AESL bid you farewell. We shall surely meet again on the resurrection morning. Rest in Perfect Peace.
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HYMNS CH 308
CH 374
1. O Christ the Glory of the angel choirs! Author and ruler of the human race! Grant us one day to climb the happy hills, And see your blissful face.
1. Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ.
2. And oh, you Raphael, physician blest, Send down to us from your celestial height, To heal our soul’s disease and direct, Our life-long course aright.
2. Of his deliverance I will boast, Till all that are distressed, From my example comfort take, And charm their griefs to rest.
3. You too, O Mary, Mother of our God! And happy Queen of Angels, hither speed, Drawing with you the army of the Saints, To help us in our need.
3. O magnify the lord with me, with me exalt his Name; when in distress to him I called, He to my rescue came.
4. This grace on us bestow, O father blest, And you O Son by name eternal birth; With you, from both proceeding, Holy Ghost! Whose glory fills the earth.
4. The hosts of God encamp around The dwellings of the just; Deliverance he affords to all Who on His succour trust. 5. O make but trial of his love; Experience will decide How blest they are, and only they Who in his truth confide. 6. Fear Him, you saints, and you will then Have nothing else to fear; Make you His service your delight; He’ll make your wants His care.
CH 106
CH 57
1. The Lord’s my shepherd, I’ll not want He makes me down to lie In pastures green; he leadeth me The quiet waters by.
1. Accept, O Father, in your love, These humble gifts of bread and wine, That with ourselves we offer you, Returning gifts already yours.
2. My spirit he restores again; My life he does reclaim, He guides me into righteousness, To glorify His name.
2. Your Son, the victim and the priest, Through human land does here renew, The perfect sacrifice of love, To render God our worship due.
3. Although I walk in depths dark vale, Yet I will fear no ill; For you are with me, and your rod And staff my comfort still.
3. Behold this host and chalice, Lord To you on high the gifts we raise; Through them may we our honour pay, Our adoration and our praise.
4. My table you have well prepared, In presence of my foes; My head you do with oil anoint, And my cup overflows.
4. Into your precious blood, O Lord, The priestly word will change the wine O may our sins be washed therein, Our hearts be made like unto yours.
5. Goodness and mercy all my life Shall surely follow me; And in God’s house for evermore My dwelling place shall be.
5. No earthly claim to grace is ours, Save what your sacrifice has won; Grant then your grace, fulfil our needs, And may your will in ours be done.
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HYMNS CH 61
CH 274
1. The solemn sacrifice begins, The Lamb is offered for our sins. He lies upon his alter throne, High Priest and victim both in one.
1. O God, our help in ages past Our hope for years to come, Our shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal home.
2. His sacrifice of love divine, Renewed in veils of bread and wine, Glory to your great name we sing, For this most precious offering. 3. We too upon this altar lay, Our humble offerings today, We give our love though weak and small, Our simple heart, ourselves, our all. 4. These gifts, dear savior, deign to bless, And pardon our unworthiness, While glory to your name we sing, For your own precious offering.
2. Under the shadow of your throne Your Saints have dwelt secure; Sufficient is your arm alone, And our defense is sure. 3. Before the hills in order stood, Or earth received her frame, From everlasting you are God, To endless years the same 4. A thousand ages in your sight Are like and evening gone; Short as the watch that ends the night Before the rising sun. 5. Time, like an ever – rolling stream, Bears all its sons away; They fly, forgotten as a dream Dies at the opening day. 6. O God, our help in ages past, Our hope for years to come, Be you our guard while troubles last, And our eternal home.
CH 245 1. How sweet the name of Jesus sounds In a believer’s ear! It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds, And drives away his fear.
1. I come to you once ore my God! No longer will I roam; For I have sought the wide world through And never found a home.
2. It makes the wounded spirit whole, And calms the troubled breast; Its manner to the hungry soul, And to the weary, rest.
2. Though bright and many are the spots, Where I have built a nest, Yet in the brightest still I pined, For more abiding rest.
3. Dear Name, the rock on which I build, My shield and hiding – place, My never – failing treasury, filled With boundless stores of grace!
3. Riches could bring me joy and power, And they were fair to see: Yet gold was but a sorry god, To serve instead of you.
4. Jesus! My Shepherd, Brother, Friend, My Prophet, Priest, and King, My Lord, my Life, my Way, my End, Accept the praise I bring.
4. The honour and the world’s good word, Appeared a nobler faith: Yet could I rest on bliss that hung, And trembles on a breath.
5. Weak is the effort of my heart, And cold my warmest thought; But when I see thee as you are, I’ll praise thee as I ought.
5. The pleasure of the passing hour, My spirit next could wile: But soon, too soon, my heart fell sick, Of pleasures weary smile.
6. Till then I would thy love proclaim With every fleeting breath; And may the music of your Name Refresh my soul in death!
6. More selfish grown, I worshipped health, The flush of manhood’s power, But then it came and went so quick, It was but for an hour. 7. And thus a not unkindly world, Has done its best for me; Yet I have found, O God! No rest, No harbor short of you. 8. For you have made this wondrous soul, All for yourself alone; Ah, send your sweet transforming grace. To make it more your own.
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HYMNS CH 351 1. Lead Kindly light, Amid the encircling gloom, Yes, lead me on! The night is dark, And I am far from home: Yes, lead me on! Keep firm my feet; I do not ask to see The distant scene; One step enough for me. 2. I was not ever thus, Nor prayed that you: Should lead me on; I loved to choose, And see my path; but now Yes lead me on! I loved the garish day, And, spite fears, Pride ruled my will; Remember not past years! 3. So long your power has Blessed me, sure it still will lead me on. O’er moor and fen, O’er crag and torrent, Till the night is gone, And with the morn, Those angel faces smile, Which I have loved, Long since, and lost awhile!
CH 349 1. Abide with me; fast falls the eventide, The darkness deepens; Lord with me abide. When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me. 2. Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day; Earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away; Change and decay in all around I see; O you who changest not, abide with me. 3. I need your presence every passing hour. What but your grace can foil the tempter’s power? Who, like yourself, my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, O abide with me. 4. I fear no foe, with you at hand to bless; Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness. Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, your victory? I triumph still, if you abide with me. 5. Hold up your cross before my closing eyes; Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies. Heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee; In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
APPRECIATION We the family and children of the late MRS. CELESTINA TWUM – BARIMAH, extend our profound gratitude and appreciation to all who in diverse ways sympathized and mourned with us during our bereaverment. GOD BLESS YOU ALL