The serene environment of the Presbyterian Women’s Centre, Abokobi, has come alive with spiritual fervour, ministerial reflection, and renewed fellowship as ministers of the Ga West Presbytery gather for their 2026 Residential Retreat.
Held under the theme “Building Stronger Bonds for Effective Personal Ministry – Cultivating a Healthy Relationship with Fellow Ministers and Presbyters,” the four‑day retreat, which began on Monday, June 15, has brought together ministers from across the Presbytery for a season of prayer, learning, renewal, and mutual encouragement.
The retreat seeks to deepen ministerial relationships and strengthen the spiritual, emotional, and professional well‑being of ministers, recognising that healthy ministry is rooted in healthy relationships.
The opening day saw the arrival and registration of participants from various districts. As ministers settled into the tranquil atmosphere of the centre, many described the gathering as timely, especially in an era when clergy face increasing pastoral, emotional, and leadership demands.
The official opening ceremony, scheduled for the evening, features prayers and exhortation led by the Presbytery Fellowship leadership, setting the tone for four days of spiritual renewal.
A unique feature of this year’s retreat is the daily Prayer Workout Sessions led by Rev. Amoako Bekoe at dawn. These sessions blend physical wellness with spiritual discipline, emphasising holistic ministerial health. Daily devotional sessions will be led by Rev. Eugene Apea Owiredu, Rev. Mrs. Rosemond Gardiner‑Korli, and Rev. Gideon Boafo Ransford, offering participants the opportunity to begin each day in worship and meditation on God’s Word.
Central to the retreat are periods of personal reflection under the theme “Alone With God,” encouraging ministers to withdraw from the pressures of active ministry and reconnect with God in prayer, contemplation, and self‑examination.
The programme also features presentations by seasoned resource persons. Rev. Samuel Foster Kwakye, Chairperson of the Sekyere Presbytery, will lead discussions on ministerial relationships and effective personal ministry, while Rev. Amoako Nyarko will facilitate a session equipping ministers for contemporary pastoral challenges.
One of the most anticipated presentations is by Rev. Dr. Kofi Aidoo on “The Mental Health of the Minister,” addressing the growing need for emotional resilience, psychological wellness, and self‑care among clergy.
The National President, Rev. Dr. Kofi Amfo Akonnor, will also engage participants on the minister’s prayer, study, and counselling life. In addition, Rev. Ebenezer Kwarfo Ansah and Rev. Florence Simpson will share insights from their ministry journeys during a special conversation session designed to encourage honest reflection and peer learning.
Financial stewardship has also been incorporated into the retreat. Representatives from GLICO and ACCESS will lead discussions on investment opportunities and financial planning, reflecting the Presbytery’s commitment to the holistic welfare of ministers.
Prayer remains at the heart of the gathering, with dedicated evening prayer sessions led by Rev. Nicholas A. Aryee and Rev. Kofi Akyeampong providing space for intercession, spiritual refreshing, and communal worship. The retreat also encourages participants to schedule personal and ministerial counselling sessions with resource persons for mentorship, guidance, and confidential support.
The retreat concludes on Thursday, June 18, with a closing reflection, fellowship session, and departure of participants, who are expected to return to their congregations spiritually renewed and better equipped for effective ministry.
By: Rev. Immanuel Wiafe
