Preaching with vivid agricultural and farming imagery, former Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rev. Dr Godwin Nii Noi Odonkor spared no word as he urged newly ordained ministers at the 2026 Ordination Service – Batch Four at Salvation Congregation, New Achimota to bear fruits worthy of the good seed God has planted in them.
He likened the environments ministers serve in to different types of soil—some fertile, some toxic, and some choking. “The seed cannot decide which soil it will fall on,” he said. “Families, colleagues, institutions, and congregations are all part of the soils in which we have been planted.”
He added that just as fertilisers are unpleasant yet essential for growth, the difficulties ministers face will strengthen them. “Fertilisers suffocate and irritate, but they aid growth. The challenges you face will prepare you for life.”
Rev. Dr Nii Noi Odonkor encouraged the ordinands not to fear delays or setbacks. “Because you are in this world, there will be challenges. But nothing can stop you from blossoming,” he said, citing Joseph’s journey from pit to palace as an example of divine destiny unfolding despite adversity.
He reminded the ministers that their ordination comes at a time when many programmes are happening in the church. “Always remind yourselves that you are good seeds. God has His DNA in you. He has trained you and equipped you for service.”
He added that God expects them to bear fruits because they have been “handpicked from many.” He urged them never to forget the grace that selected them and to succeed for the sake of Christ and the church. “God wants to use you to add value to His church,” he said.
