As I interact with Presbytery Public Relations Officers (PROs) of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), follow the social media handles of various Presbyteries, and reflect on broader PCG media and PR issues, one thing is clear: PCG is experiencing a healthy and promising transformation in its PR and media outlook.
It is a candid observation. Across the country, Presbyteries are waking up to the urgent need to fortify their communication structures, not only through the appointment of PROs but also by equipping them with the tools necessary to tell compelling stories of the church’s mission, vision, and impact.
For years, the church, like many other institutions in Ghana, relied heavily on traditional methods of information dissemination. The advent of digital media technology has altered things greatly. The PCG accepts that effective PR and media engagement are indispensable for spreading the Gospel, projecting our vision and connecting with a global audience.
British theologian John R. W. Stott once observed that, “Communication is the bridge between the Word of God and the world of men.” In today’s digital age, that bridge is built through new media technologies. Social media platforms and digital media equipment are vital tools for evangelism. They enable churches to reach audiences outside their walls.
For the PCG, embracing these technologies is not simply about modernisation. It is also about faithfulness to the Great Commission in a world that is technologically changing. In Asante Presbytery, Rev. Bernard Gyimah has set a high bar for professional PR practice. Ga Presbytery, months ago, appointed Rev. Stanley Toddison as PRO, and he is already establishing a strong office, ensuring that activities are well-publicised.
Asante South Presbytery has taken bold steps by appointing Richard Ankomah as PRO, supported by the Presbytery’s purchase of a modern camera and projector to enhance coverage and documentation of events. Brong Ahafo Presbytery is already on its feet, doing commendable work. Kwahu Presbytery has taken off impressively, reviving its media unit and sustaining momentum.
Sefwi Presbytery just launched its media outfit with a pledge to equip it further, while Western and Upper Presbyteries are equally up for what is shaping up to be healthy competition in the PCG PR turf. Bear in mind that this article’s focus is on the work the media offices of the listed Presbyteries are doing to project the church on social media.
For me as the national PRO, the message is quite clear. Presbyteries without PROs, designated offices, or media equipment must take a deep look at these developments and follow suit. They must embrace the media resurrection for a new life. The future of PCG PR rests on all Presbyteries building strong platforms to project the Gospel and the church.
At the national level, the PR Unit at the General Assembly office is preparing seminars, in-person and online to build the capacities of Presbytery PROs once plans receive official endorsement. Our goal is to reorganise PCG’s communication outlook and align media outlets for compelling, unified stories of faith, service, and transformation.
Congregations, districts, Presbyteries — ministers and chairpersons — must be part of the new media drive. Please invest in communication and media. By the grace of God, with good PR and everyone doing their bit, we will not only spread the Gospel more effectively but also project PCG’s vision, celebrate our achievements with clarity and impact.
The PCG is on the cusp of a media and communication resurrection. With PROs in place, media tools being acquired, and national strategies underway, the PCG is positioning itself to speak with a stronger, clearer, and more unified voice. Let us get on board, communicate the Gospel, and project the PCG’s vision effectively.
By Jerome Otchere, PCG PRO
