The creation of Districts, according to the Clerk of the General Assembly, Rev. David Aboagye‑Danquah, is meant to ease the difficulty of working across large geographical areas and to promote healthy competition and sustained growth within the church.
This philosophy shaped his two‑day official assignment to the Asante Akyem Presbytery, where he inspected facilities at the two proposed Districts, Dampong and Patriensa.
Rev. Aboagye‑Danquah undertook the inspection with the Presbytery Chairperson, Rev. Bright Agyekum Kobeah, supported by the Presbytery Clerk, Agents and members of the Presbytery Council.
At each centre, he addressed congregations and explained the Church’s structured process for District creation, noting that requests may originate from the Local, District or Presbytery level but must be harmonised across all. He emphasised that the General Assembly Council validates such requests, mandates the Clerk to inspect and report, and finally grants approval, with some applications occasionally denied after inspection.
He reiterated that the purpose behind creating new Districts is to reduce administrative strain on ministers serving in wide geographical areas and to stimulate positive competition that enhances mission work and church development. At both Dampong and Patriensa, Senior Presbyters from congregations within the earmarked areas mounted the platform to assure the Clerk of their readiness and willingness to support the proposed Districts.
The Asante Akyem Presbytery, originally made up of six Districts, currently has twelve. With the approval of Dampong and Patriensa, the number will increase to fourteen. During the tour, the Clerk inspected chapels, manses, offices and record‑keeping systems, ensuring that the proposed Districts meet the standards required for elevation.
He was accompanied by his Personal Assistant, Rev. Eugene Duodu, and is expected to submit a comprehensive report to the General Assembly Council for the final decision.
By Solomon Boakye Akosa
