The Humble Beginnings (1928–1929)
In 1928, a small community of Catholics started meeting in a verandah in a house close to the Tamale Central Mosque to pray together. In March 1929, the Chief of Tamale, the Dakpema Busagri, gave them a plot where they built a church, located at the present-day Bishop's secretariat. In September 1929, the new church was blessed, and the first mass was celebrated by a priest who came from Bolgatanga.
The First Resident Priest (1946)
Early in 1946, a resident priest was assigned to Tamale. This marked a significant milestone in the life of the Catholic community, bringing stability, regular sacramental ministry, and accelerated growth to the faithful in the region.
Building the Cathedral (1948–1965)
The first stone of OLA Cathedral was subsequently laid on 7th March 1948. When the building reached window level, it was observed that it would be too small for the growing congregation. The plan was modified, and the building became the Reverend Father's house before it ended up as the present SMI convent. Sunday mass was celebrated in what is now the Social Centre until 1962, when the present Cathedral was built.
Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) Cathedral
The completed Cathedral stands as a testament to the faith, sacrifice, and dedication of the early Catholic community in Tamale. It serves as the spiritual home for thousands of parishioners and continues to be a beacon of hope, unity, and Catholic witness in Northern Ghana.
Key Milestones
First Catholic Gatherings
A small community of Catholics began meeting in a verandah close to the Tamale Central Mosque to pray together.
Land Granted
The Chief of Tamale, the Dakpema Busagri, granted a plot of land where the first church was built, located at the present-day Bishop's secretariat.
First Mass Celebrated
The new church was blessed, and the first Mass was celebrated by a priest who came from Bolgatanga.
First Resident Priest
A resident priest was assigned to Tamale, bringing stability and regular pastoral care to the community.
Foundation Stone Laid
The first stone of OLA Cathedral was laid. When the building reached window level, it was observed it would be too small.
Construction & Modification
The plan was modified. The building became the Reverend Father's house before ending as the SMI convent. Sunday Mass was celebrated at the Social Centre.
Present Cathedral Built
Construction of the present Cathedral began in 1962 and was completed in 1965, becoming the spiritual home of the Catholic community.