In the vibrant landscape of West Africa, the missionary journey of Father Walter Woamede, SMA, stands out for its dedication and profound impact. Originally from the Archdiocese of Lomé in Togo, Father Walter has devoted his life to the service of the Church and his community. His story is one of unwavering faith, nurtured from a young age and blossoming into a remarkable missionary life.

Early Inspirations and Vocational Roots

Father Walter’s calling to the priesthood began in 1994 when he joined the altar servers’ group in his parish community. Participating in Eucharistic celebrations at the Saint Pie X Minor Seminary in Agoè-Nyivé, he was profoundly influenced by the priests he met, particularly the seminary rector. “The rector of the minor seminary who influenced my vocation is Father Noël Akpabie,” Father Walter recalls, highlighting the rector’s welcoming nature, availability, and exceptional listening skills.

Nourished by these early encounters, Father Walter’s vocation grew stronger. Seeking clarity in his calling, he joined the vocational group led by the Divine Word Missionaries (SVD) and spent three years discerning his path.

Connecting with the SMA

Father Walter’s journey with the Society of African Missions (SMA) began with an invitation from Father Valery Aguh, SMA, who was then a seminarian. Participating in the monthly sessions organized by the SMA’s Togo region, Father Walter felt a strong call to join the society. After a year as an aspirant, he officially joined the SMA and was sent to Côte d’Ivoire to study philosophy, marking the beginning of his remarkable adventure with the SMA.

Missionary Work and Leadership

Ordained in 2014, Father Walter was assigned to Ghana for his first mission. He served in various roles: parish vicar, missionary and vocational animator, and rector of the propaedeutic seminary in Winneba. In 2020, his journey brought him back to Lomé, where he assumed significant responsibilities. In 2019, he was appointed Vice Provincial of Togo and later served as rector of the propaedeutic seminary in Lomé from 2021 to 2023.

Since November 2023, Father Walter has been the parish priest of Jésus Miséricordieux in Avépozo-Kpota, a district on the outskirts of Lomé. Here, he faces numerous challenges, including financial and material constraints. Yet, he remains determined, driven by the community’s thirst for God and their potential for spiritual growth. “The challenges are enormous,” he notes, emphasizing the need for priests to adapt to a changing world and respond to contemporary demands.

Personal Life and Reflections

Father Walter comes from a family of four children, with two boys and two girls. He is the second-born, with an older sister, a younger sister, and a younger brother. His family ties and early influences have shaped his compassionate approach to his vocation.

Father Walter Woamede’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and dedication. His story continues to inspire those around him, embodying the spirit of missionary work in a rapidly evolving world.