Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, has commended the leadership and members of the Methodist Church Ghana, Dawhenya-Afienya Circuit, for their steadfast contribution to spiritual growth, community development, and national cohesion over the past five years.
Delivering a keynote address on behalf of the Minister, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, during the 5th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service at Bethel Chapel in Dawhenya, the Deputy Minister praised the Church for its resilience, purpose-driven ministry, and alignment with the broader national vision of reflection, renewal, and transformation.
“This celebration is not only a commemoration of your five year journey but a moment to acknowledge God’s purpose and faithfulness in expanding your soul-winning frontiers,” she stated on behalf of the Minister.
She extended warm congratulations from His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama, to the leadership of the Tema Diocese, the Dawhenya-Afienya Circuit, and the entire Methodist Church Ghana for their legacy of service to the nation.
The theme of the anniversary, “5 Years of Grace: Reflection on God’s Purpose and Faithfulness,” was noted as deeply resonant with the government’s development agenda, particularly as captured in the recent National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving themed “Reflect, Reset and Renew for National Prosperity.”
Hon. Sowah, quoting Isaiah 46:10 and Isaiah 41:10, emphasized that the Church’s progress is rooted in divine guidance and purpose, and encouraged the congregation to live lives of gratitude, faithfulness, and service.
She applauded the vision and leadership of Rev. Moses Tetteh Terkper, the first Superintendent Minister of the Circuit, and Very Rev. Isaac William Akyerefi-Mensah, along with other past and present leaders whose dedication has brought the Dawhenya-Afienya Circuit to its current standing.
“Let your work be recognised not just among men but by God,” she urged.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, Hon. Sowah highlighted the strategic restructuring of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to harmonize religious affairs with decentralised local governance for better development outcomes. She shared updates on key initiatives, including the 24-Hour Economy Markets Project, designed to create safe, modern, and inclusive trading spaces across the country.
She called on the Church to support the establishment of 24-hour markets within the Districts by lending community mobilisation and service-based partnerships to support local development.
“Faith-based institutions remain key partners in development. Your cooperation is vital in ensuring that public services reach the people in practical and transformative ways,” she said.
The Deputy Minister also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the Reset Agenda, focused on improving public service delivery, enhancing decentralisation, and fostering responsible governance at all levels.
“The Government appreciates your impact in shaping thousands of lives through discipleship, education, moral formation, and community service, particularly in Dawhenya, Afienya, Tema, and surrounding areas.”
She concluded by encouraging the congregation to remain anchored in the Methodist spirit of service and discipline, and to continue as vessels of honour for God’s glory.
“As we surge forward, let us reflect Christ in word and deed. Our nation will rise when its people are rooted in righteousness and service.”
The anniversary service brought together dignitaries from the Church, traditional leaders, Ministry officials, the media, and congregants from across the Circuit in a celebration of faith, reflection, and shared commitment to national development.
Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann & Stephanie Edem Klutsey
Public Relations Unit, MLGCRA