On Sunday, February 16, 2025, Our Lady Star of the Sea Parish hosted its inaugural Cultural and Unity Thanksgiving Mass, marking a significant occasion where Sierra Leonean tribes and other nationalities within the parish came together in a spirit of unity and celebration.

The theme of the celebration, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is, for people to dwell in unity” (Psalm 133:1), resonated deeply throughout the event. The mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Allie of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church Lakka, with several notable figures in attendance, including the Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles, the first parish priest, Rev. Fr. Sylvester Wuya, and Rev. Fr. Omanga Philip from the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (CSSP).

Parish priest, Rev. Fr. Dr. Titus Imojime, extended a warm welcome to all invitees and the entire congregation, thanking them for their participation in the landmark event. “Today, we celebrate not only our faith but the cultural richness that unites us as one,” he said in his opening remarks.

A highlight of the celebration was the recognition of Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, who was honored as the Distinguished Grand Chief Unifier. Several others were also acknowledged as Grand Unifiers, underscoring the event’s commitment to honoring those who foster unity and togetherness within the community.

The first phase of the ceremony, chaired by PPC Vice Chair Mr. Stephen Gaojia, included a mass followed by statements from various unifiers. Representatives from Sierra Leonean tribes and other nationalities offered their thanksgiving, each in alphabetical order, highlighting the diversity and strength of the parish’s community.

The second phase, chaired by Mr. Thomas Ngolo Katta, Chairman of the Cultural and Unity Thanksgiving Planning Committee, featured a vibrant cultural display. Attendees were treated to performances that showcased traditional dances, music, and attire from various Sierra Leonean tribes and other nationalities, emphasizing the beauty of cultural diversity and the importance of unity.

The choir was instrumental in the success of the Thanksgiving celebration, captivating the audience with their exceptional vocal beauty and power. Their performance was deeply moving, with emotion flowing through every note. The choir’s harmonies were flawlessly blended, creating the impression of a single, unified voice. This seamless integration of their voices resulted in a truly powerful and unforgettable performance, leaving a lasting impact on everyone in attendance.

A large feast of food and drinks was served, further enhancing the joyous atmosphere. Parishioners and guests from all walks of life shared in the meal, symbolizing the communal spirit of the gathering.

The mass and subsequent festivities left a lasting impression on all those in attendance, reinforcing a renewed sense of pride in the shared heritage and a strengthened commitment to unity. The event not only celebrated the cultural diversity of the parish but also echoed the message of living together harmoniously, as expressed in Psalm 133:1.