I’m ready to listen – Rev. Wilberforce Takyi
The newly inducted Chairperson of the Brong Ahafo Presbytery, Rev. Wilberforce Takyi, has pledged to lead with humility, openness and a willingness to learn, declaring that he assumes office not as one who has all the answers but as one who is prepared to listen to God’s people.
Delivering his induction address at the Ebenezer Congregation in Sunyani, Rev. Takyi expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness and described his elevation to the office as a divine call to service rather than a position attained through personal ambition.
“I did not lobby for this office. I receive it as a call to serve, trusting in the grace of the One who has called me. It is the Lord’s doing and it is marvelous in our eyes,” he said. He paid tribute to the pioneers and past leaders of the Presbytery, particularly the seventeen Chairpersons who served before him, acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions to the growth of the Church.
Rev. Takyi emphasised that collaboration would be at the heart of his leadership, stressing that he would rely on the wisdom, counsel and support of the Church. “I stand before you today not as one who knows it all, but as one who is ready to listen and learn. I need the wisdom, experience and support of all of you,” he said. He disclosed that his vision for the Presbytery would focus on two key priorities: expanding the reach of the Gospel through church planting and strengthening the Presbytery’s economic foundation to support ministry.
As part of this vision, he announced an ambitious target of planting at least 150 new churches before the end of his five-year term. To achieve this goal, he said every existing congregation would be encouraged to support the establishment of at least one new church, while newly planted congregations would receive logistical, spiritual and infrastructural support.
Beyond evangelism, the Chairperson outlined plans aimed at enhancing the Presbytery’s financial sustainability, including expanding the family farm, establishing income-generating ventures, and opening a cafeteria to serve guests and participants at official Presbytery programmes.
He further revealed plans to provide musical equipment for all four zones of the Presbytery to enrich worship and support congregational growth. Rev. Takyi called on ministers, officers and members to embrace collective ownership of the Presbytery’s mission, stressing that its future development would require the contribution of every member.
“This calls for total commitment. My plea to the entire Presbytery is simple: Together, let us build our Presbytery,” he urged. The new Chairperson said his administration would be anchored on four key pillars: fellowship, dependence on God, participation and growth.
Underscoring the importance of divine guidance, he stated that despite his 23 years of ministerial experience, he would not rely on human wisdom alone. “I am not going to depend on my own experience, but I am going to depend totally on God for His guidance, because my experience alone cannot help us achieve our goals,” he said.
In a passionate appeal for unity and support, Rev. Takyi asked the Church to pray for him, stand with him and partner with him in advancing the work of God in the Presbytery. “Seek divine wisdom for me. Stand with me, I can’t do it alone. Build with me,” he appealed, adding, “Correct me in love, I welcome your counsel.”
By Jerome Otchere