The Moderator of the General Assembly, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, has emphasised that the new Moderatorial gown must honour Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) tradition while representing a church rooted in Ghana and engaged globally.
Speaking at the launch of the Moderatorial Gown Design Competition at Church House, Osu, Accra, the Moderator described the initiative as a historic step toward producing an indigenous gown that reflects the church’s identity as it approaches its 200th anniversary in 2028. He noted that the exercise would leave a lasting legacy for future generations of Presbyterians.
He commended the Moderatorial Gown Review Committee, chaired by Rev. Dr. Godwin Nii Noi Odonkor, for their diligence and commitment despite tight timelines. While acknowledging that the one‑month window for designers to conceive and submit entries may seem demanding, he expressed confidence that with God’s help, the church would receive excellent designs. He encouraged creatives across the church to embrace the challenge with enthusiasm and faith.
Reflecting on the history of the gown, the Moderator explained that the current Moderatorial gown—introduced in 1955 by the Very Rev. Max Doudu after observing clerical dress in Scotland—was never originally designed for the Church of Scotland but was adopted over time. He noted that the gown has served the church well, especially during its transition from the colonial era into independence.
He, however, highlighted the practical challenges associated with the current gown, including its heavy fabric, weight, and lack of suitability for Ghana’s climate. “If you don’t wear the gown, you don’t know what moderators go through,” he remarked, pointing to the heat and discomfort moderators endure.
The Moderator stressed that the church now has an opportunity to design a gown that is beautiful, dignified, breathable, modern, and reflective of the church’s African identity while maintaining its global outlook.
He expressed confidence that with the guidance of the Committee and the support of the General Assembly Council, the church would produce a gown befitting its heritage and future. He added that while the old gown would remain part of the church’s tradition, the new design would carry the church forward into its next century of ministry.
By Jerome Otchere
