The five‑day clinical screening exercise conducted at the Ramseyer Training Centre (RTC), Abetifi, is more than a commendable initiative; it is a courageous affirmation of what ministerial formation in the Presbyterian Church of Ghana looks like.
In an era where emotional strain, burnout and silent psychological battles are increasingly common, RTC’s decision to partner with Dejoy Healthy Life Consult to assess the mental and emotional wellbeing of its trainees and faculty deserves the highest praise.
This exercise did not emerge in a vacuum. It follows RTC’s long‑standing practice of ensuring that students undergo regular, mandatory medical examinations supervised by the Presbyterian Hospital, Agogo. That foundation of physical health monitoring has now been complemented by a deeper, more holistic approach, one that recognises that ministry demands not only strong bodies, but resilient and stable emotional lives.
The team from Dejoy Healthy Life Consult, led by Dr. Dora Awuah, brought evidence‑based professionalism to RTC. They went beyond routine checks as they listened, observed, and analysed the often‑unspoken pressures that accompany ministerial formation. I was personally impressed during my own more than an hour‑long assessment.
The aim was clear: identify early signs of emotional strain, detect risks and provide interventions that strengthen the wellbeing of future ministers of the church. The results were encouraging. Out of 127 individuals assessed, the majority showed no symptoms of depression, and anxiety levels were minimal.
More than two‑thirds demonstrated exceptional resilience, a reassuring sign for a church that must have emotionally grounded leaders. Personality functioning across my colleague student ministers was also largely healthy.
Perhaps the most striking part of Dr. Awuah’s report, comprehensively shared with the student body and faculty was her emphasis on subtle warning signs: poor stress management, inadequate rest, limited self‑care and the pressure of continuous activity.
These are not signs of weakness; they are reminders that resilience, while admirable, is not a substitute for intentional rest and emotional maintenance. As student ministers, we have a duty of care to ourselves. Dr. Awuah’s caution that “resilience alone cannot replace emotional care” is one we must take seriously.
RTC’s management deserves commendation for recognising that ministerial training must address the whole person. The openness to professional assessment, willingness to confront difficult truths and commitment to immediate interventions reflect a forward‑looking approach to ministerial formation. I like it.
Dejoy Healthy Life Consult also deserves applause for their sensitivity, professionalism and readiness to support trainees and staff. Ministry is demanding, and the church must ensure that those who serve are physically, emotionally and psychologically well. A healthy church begins with healthy ministers and RTC has shown the way. Thank you, RTC. Thank you, Presbyterian Church of Ghana for this initiative.
By Jerome Otchere
