As we move forward, let us remain steadfast in our mission to spread the gospel… Moderator, Opare Kwakye

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PCG Holds Consultations on Global Missions 

Abokobi – Accra, Ghana,  — The Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) has convened a high-level consultation on global missions, focusing on “The Future of Diaspora Mission for the Presbyterian Church of Ghana.” The event, which brought together some of the church’s most respected Ministers in academia and Diaspora Missions, provided a platform to discuss the evolving role of the church in addressing the spiritual needs of Ghanaians living abroad and strategies to reach the indigenes.

The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Prof. Samuel Ayete-Nyampong, a distinguished theologian and former Clerk of the General Assembly. In his speech, Rev. Prof. Ayete-Nyampong highlighted the critical importance of diaspora missions in the current global context. He stressed that the church must evolve its strategies to meet the unique challenges faced by its members in the diaspora, particularly in areas such as spiritual nourishment, cultural integration, and socio-economic empowerment.

He indicated that Diaspora Missions are not just about extending the church’s reach; they are about deepening our connection with Ghanaians abroad, understanding their needs, and providing holistic support. He called on the church to harness the power of technology and cross-cultural partnerships to enhance its mission work.

Following the keynote address, two other significant presentations were made. Rev. Emmanuel Omari, who spoke on the Europe Presbytery, provided an overview of the current state of the church’s mission in Europe. The Presbytery has 7 Districts, 56 Congregations, 23 Preaching Points, and 12 Global Presbyterian Worship Centers. He discussed the diverse cultural landscape of the continent and the need for tailored approaches such as mission integration, capacity building, cultural sensitivity and adaptation, and holistic mission approach to minister effectively to Ghanaians living in different European countries.

Rev. Dr. Awuku Gyampo, who presented on the North America and Australia Presbytery (NAAP), focused on these regions’ unique challenges and opportunities. He emphasized the growing Ghanaian communities in North America and Australia and the importance of establishing more robust support systems to cater to their spiritual and social needs. Rev. Dr. Gyampo also called the church to focus on building stronger Congregations and Districts in Canada to become another Presbytery and creation of Districts in each of the 50 States in the US. The PCG currently has Congregations in 26 States.

The consultation also featured a panel discussion where responses were taken from Rev. Prof. Bamfo Atiemo, Rev. Dr. J. W. Acheampong, and Rev. Georgina Boateng. These Ministers provided valuable reflections on the presentations, offering insights into the strategic direction the church should take in its diaspora missions. They emphasized the need for innovative and sustainable approaches to mission work, including leveraging digital platforms, fostering closer ties with local churches in the diaspora regions, and equipping the laity enough to lead with excellence.

The Very Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, former Moderator led the house to reflect on key issues for the future of Diaspora Missions. Anchoring on Acts 1:8, he mentioned that Christ expects us to reach our own culture, then to those of similar cultures and those of different cultures. He added areas the church must watch; “the Bible and Science, outline our outreach and operationalization, and sponsor studies in global anthropology of culture and music.” Prof. Martey ended by saying, “The world is hungry for information, using the media to engage people is very important.” Meanwhile, “The church lacks research in the practical contemporary needs of the church.” He therefore encouraged more funding in the future of Diaspora Missions.

The consultation was held under the distinguished leadership of Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana. In his closing remarks, Rt. Rev. Dr. A. N. O. Kwakye expressed his gratitude to all the speakers and participants for their contributions. He reaffirmed the church’s commitment to strengthening its diaspora missions and urged all stakeholders to take concrete steps toward realizing the vision and affirmations outlined during the consultation.

In his initial statements, Moderator Kwakye outlined some mission thoughts of the church – mission on the African continent, immigration issues, entering new territories, and mission beyond Ghanaian communities in the Diaspora.

“Today’s discussion is a crucial step in ensuring that the Presbyterian Church of Ghana remains a vital and transformative force for Ghanaians abroad,” said Rt. Rev. Dr. Opare Kwakye. He added, “As we move forward, let us remain steadfast in our mission to spread the gospel and support our brothers and sisters in the diaspora.”

The affirmations of the Global Missions Consultation are expected to significantly influence the church’s strategic direction in the Diaspora Missions, ensuring that the Presbyterian Church of Ghana continues to be a beacon of hope, faith, and community for Ghanaians around the world.

AD August 12, 2024

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