Local Catholic parishes welcome Father Paul Ameyaw

By Caroline Rosacker

Local Catholic parishes  Immaculate Conception in North Buena Vista, St. Joseph in Garnavillo, and St. Mary's in Guttenberg welcome Father Paul Ameyaw of Ghana, West Africa, to lead their congregations in worship. 

Father Paul, an ordained Catholic Priest for 32 years, was born and raised in a deeply religious family dedicated to the Catholic Church. He was inspired to enter the priesthood when he was seven years old. 

"When I was a young boy Catholic missionaries would come to Africa – specifically Ghana," he remembered. "They often stayed in our home. They would gather the children after Mass to share their faith through cinema. The experience left a lasting impression on me drawing me to the priesthood."  

Father Paul was educated in Catholic schools as a young adult and furthered his studies at an advanced level before proceeding to seminary where he studied ethics, philosophy, and theology.

He spent seven years as an associate priest at St. Mary's in Katonah, New York. During that time he earned a Masters Degree in Religious Education at Fordham University. 

"After my studies, I returned home and was appointed as the Chancellor of my Diocese in Ghana for eight years before becoming the Vicar General to the Bishop," he noted. 

Father Paul is very impressed with the Midwest and the large farms and the skills needed to maintain them. 

"The people in Guttenberg are very hospitable," he told The Press. "One thing that touched me is the friendly police force. I have never experienced that before." 

The dedicated priest has immersed himself in the community and appreciates the friendly atmosphere of rural Iowa.  "This is my first experience in a small town," he shared. "There is a deep sense of community here."

Father Paul follows in the footsteps of longtime leader Father Bries. He is grateful for his right-hand man, Jim Pfaffly, and church secretary, Lisa Kies.  "Jim and Lisa have been so helpful. I don't know what I would do without their assistance. I also appreciate Parishioners Bill Leonhart, who helped me with his car to do my road test and to secure my driving license. Austin Greve has also been very helpful during this adaptation," he said with gratitude. The parish children have also made Father Paul's transition to Iowa a favorable experience. "The faith formation students are so friendly and quick to offer me a cookie. They make me feel right at home," he commented. Father Paul was impressed with Brown's car dealership where he purchased his vehicle. "They even placed my photo on Facebook," he laughed. 

Parishioners have offered advice on where to eat, shop, and navigate the roadways in northeast Iowa. 

"Many have warned me about driving at night and the abundance of deer that cross the roadways unexpectedly," he said. "I appreciate everyone who has helped me feel so welcome in my new home," he concluded.