The Director of the Department of Ecumenical and Social Relations (ESR), Rev. Andrews Teye Odjawo, has emphasised that the Presbyterian Church of Ghana’s mission requires deliberate action, not mere reflection.
Speaking on PCG Connect during a special broadcast from Stuttgart, Germany, he outlined the Department’s strategic plan and reaffirmed ESR’s role as the bridge between the Church and society. Rev. Odjawo explained that ESR’s work is anchored in the PCG’s prophetic responsibility to address issues affecting communities and the nation.
He said the Department organises public interest activities such as lectures and symposia on entrepreneurship, education, ecological injustice, corruption and good neighbourliness, and is exploring emerging concerns including ethical leadership and artificial intelligence.
He noted that ESR also promotes participation in ecumenical bodies and local councils of churches, encouraging Presbyterians to join programmes such as Bible Week, Christian Home Week and CCG Sunday, and to engage in meetings with the Christian Council of Ghana, GPCC and para‑church organisations like the International Justice Mission.
These efforts, he said, reflect Jesus’ prayer for unity in John 17:21. Rev. Odjawo noted that the ESR’s work with people of other faiths, especially Muslim communities, through interfaith seminars, peace initiatives, clean‑up exercises, blood donation drives and festive visits. He also outlined ESR’s ministry to traditional rulers, including the “Mission to the Palace” programme, chaplaincy services and special services with paramountcies such as the Asantehene and Akwamumanhene, with Royal Fellowships.
He said ESR continues to deepen global partnerships through ecumenical visits, joint projects, personnel exchanges and collaboration with international bodies. Rev. Odjawo added that ESR issues advisory notes on national issues and leads advocacy on peace, environmental protection, corruption and LGBTQ+ concerns through peace walks, training for peace ambassadors, national campaigns such as Red Sunday and the establishment of peace clubs.
He acknowledged challenges such as the need for stronger collaboration from Presbyteries, adequate budgetary support and the inauguration of Royal Fellowships, and encouraged the establishment of peace clubs in schools. The ESR’s work reflects Jesus’ call to unity and the church’s identity as “salt of the earth” and “light of the world” ended, Rev. Odjawo.
By Jerome Otchere
