The Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) has celebrated a monumental milestone with a bicentennial anniversary lecture, commemorating 200 years of remarkable contributions to Ghana’s development. The lecture, hosted by Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, Moderator of the General Assembly, alongside Rev. Dr. Godwin Nii Noi Odonkor, Clerk of the General Assembly, brought together Presbyterians and leaders from other Christian denominations, including the Church of Pentecost, Methodist Church, and Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Ghana.
Delivering the main lecture, Rev. Dr. Effa Kofi Ababio, a retired minister of the Church, and former two-time Chairperson of the Brong Ahafo and Asante Presbyteries, emphasized the church’s extensive contributions in critical areas such as education, health services, economic development, and agriculture. Dr. Ababio highlighted that, from as early as the 1920s to the present, the Presbyterian Church has made a profound impact, notably pioneering educational and health facilities, supporting the cocoa industry, and strengthening the economy. Papa Effah Ababio expounded to set the History of Ghana straight that, the introduction of cocoa in Ghana was not Teteh Quashie but the Basel Missionaries. He urged current and future generations to continue building on this legacy, ensuring that the Presbyterian values of discipline, service, and innovation remain relevant.
The Special Guest of Honour, Hon. Dan Botchway, praised the church’s longstanding commitment to discipline and integrity, urging leaders and members to safeguard these principles in an era that demands moral fortitude. “Discipline is needed now more than ever,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the church’s high standards for the benefit of the nation.
Hon. Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, also extended his congratulations, recognizing the PCG’s contribution to Ghana’s moral and spiritual fabric. “This celebration is more than a milestone; it’s a testament to the Church’s role in nation-building,” he said. Hon. Boateng assured the gathering that his ministry would continue to engage and collaborate with the PCG, reinforcing the government’s appreciation for its moral influence and commitment to national development. He also noted that Ghana looks to the Presbyterian Church for renewed leadership in shaping societal values.
One of the event’s highlights was the announcement that the General Assembly had approved a logo, designed by Rev. Samuel Agyeman Koranteng, to commemorate the 200-year celebration. The logo will be officially unveiled on December 28, 2024, at the Osu Castle, marking the launch of the 200 years bicentennial anniversary.
In his closing remarks, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye referenced Ghana’s patriotic song “Yen Ara Ya Asase Ni,” challenging the current generation to reflect on their contributions to the future. “What legacy will we leave for the next 100 years?” he asked, inspiring attendees to think beyond the present and envision a church that continues to serve God and Ghana in transformative ways.
The historic event was attended by a host of prominent Presbyterians, including past principal officers like Very Rev. Dr. Sam Prempeh, Very Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, Rev. Herbert Anim Oppong, and Rev. Prof. Samuel Ayetey-Nyampong, who witnessed this significant moment of reflection and renewal.
As the Presbyterian Church of Ghana embarks on its next century, it remains steadfast in its mission to uphold and expand its foundational values, serving both God and country with commitment and compassion. The bicentennial celebration stands as a testament to the Church’s unwavering influence and a rallying call for Presbyterians to uphold the legacy of their forebears.
