The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, has charged seminarians of the Presbyterian Seminarians Union (PSU) at Trinity Theological Seminary to uphold integrity, discipline, and excellence as they prepare to serve as future ministers of the Church.
Addressing the seminarians during a courtesy visit to the General Assembly Office on Thursday, the Moderator expressed deep appreciation to the Warden, Rev. Dr. Charles Amarkwei, the Vice President, Rev. Dr. Martin Obeng, and the entire faculty for their dedication to theological education and ministerial formation. He described their work as a sacred sacrifice, noting that “it is a sacrifice to offer yourself for the raising of the next generation.”
He reminded the students that ordination into the Presbyterian ministry is not automatic after training but is based on two years of probation, during which their conduct, performance, and character are assessed. He therefore urged them to take their formation seriously, describing the growing interest in ministry as a positive sign of God’s work within the Church.
While acknowledging that Presbyterian ministers enjoy considerable honour and respect in society, the Moderator cautioned that the church occasionally faces unfortunate incidents involving ministers. Drawing from scripture, he noted that even Apostle Peter faced criticism, emphasising that ministers must represent the church with dignity at all times.
“We are not beyond criticism. No one is above the law in the Presbyterian Church of Ghana. This is a church of discipline,” he stressed.
Turning to the church’s upcoming bicentennial celebration, the Moderator encouraged the seminarians to actively promote the vision and activities associated with it, particularly the Agenda 2 Million initiative. He underscored the need for intentional evangelism and discipleship, urging the students to familiarise themselves with the Church’s evangelism materials and to make meaningful impact wherever they will be posted. “Make a mark. Plant churches,” he charged.
Speaking on the ongoing Kutunse Project, he described it as “the dream of the fathers” and encouraged the seminarians to speak about it at every opportunity while contributing toward its completion. He emphasised that the project represents a major legacy for the Church’s future.
The Moderator also cautioned the students on responsible use of social media, noting that the digital age has transformed communication and that ministers must be mindful of their public utterances and online behaviour. He concluded by advising the seminarians to avoid lobbying for postings, urging them instead to trust God to direct their placement and ministry journey.
By: Vanessa Sowah, PR Intern
