Christian Council of Ghana holds maiden Ecumenical Convention
The Christian Council of Ghana has held its maiden Ecumenical Convention, with a call on churches across the country to strengthen unity at the community level to enhance their collective witness and impact.
The convention is the assembly of various denominations under the CCG to deepen ecumenical relations and promote cooperation among churches.
The General Secretary of the Council, Rev. Dr Cyril G. K. Fayose, who made the call in Accra, said genuine national unity must reflect in stronger collaboration among churches at the grassroots.
Convention
The two-day event, held on the theme: “Uniting the Body of Christ for Greater Impact”, brought together clergy, church leaders and representatives of local councils of churches from across the country and honoured outstanding local church leaders with awards for their contributions to ecumenism and community development.
Awards were presented to local churches and individuals for their outstanding work in promoting ecumenism and supporting community development.
Some of the churches and personalities included the former CEO of the Bui Power Authority, Fred Oware; the Presidential envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations at the Office of the President, Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah; Vice-Chairman of the Christian Council, Ghana, Rev Enock Thompson; the Methodist Church, the Baptist Church, the Presbyterian Church-Ghana and the Trinity United Church.
Unity
Speaking at the event, Rev. Dr Fayose described the convention as a historic milestone, stating that for decades the Christian Council had envisioned a deeper form of unity that went beyond statements and occasional joint programmes.
He said the local council of churches initiative represents one of the most significant efforts to build unity from the grassroots, emphasising that meaningful national unity can only emerge when churches within communities work together consistently.
“Unity begins at the community level. If we are to have a truly united nation, our churches must collaborate regularly, support each other’s programmes, and reflect the prayer of Jesus that we may all be one,” he said.
He said that while national leaders frequently receive public acknowledgement, many dedicated grassroots leaders serve tirelessly without recognition.
He urged churches to prioritise allegiance to the body of Christ over denominational loyalty, noting that collective action ensures the Church remains relevant and impactful.
Diversity
The Chairman of the Convention and Chief Executive Officer of Rock Hospital, Bishop Dr Charles Abban, described his appointment as both an honour and a sacred responsibility.
He expressed gratitude to the council for the confidence reposed in him and acknowledged the tireless work of past and present leaders who have advanced Christian unity over the years.
He said divisions, misunderstandings and competition weaken the Church’s collective witness and reduce its influence in society.
He stressed that unity does not require uniformity, stating that the diversity of traditions, worship styles and expressions of faith were strengths that enrich the body of Christ.
Church’s Role
Delivering a keynote address on behalf of former Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Mr Oware, commended the Christian Council for promoting unity and social cohesion.
Mr Oware said the former vice-president, though a devout Muslim, respected all religious traditions and believed that faith communities must work together to advance national cohesion.
He urged churches to maintain a unified and consistent voice, particularly during election periods when conflicting messages can create confusion.
He added that spirituality remains central to Ghanaian life and expressed hope that the Council would continue providing moral guidance with clarity and integrity.
Accountability
Mr Afriyie-Ankrah, praised the Council and its member churches for their century-long contributions to education, healthcare, social support, and moral guidance in the country.
He highlighted that church-run schools shape future leaders, hospitals and clinics provide essential healthcare, and social programmes empower youth and support families in crisis.
He said that internal accountability and discipline were critical to maintaining the Church’s credibility.
Mr Afriyie-Ankrah said that financial mismanagement, doctrinal conflicts, and unaccountable leadership practices in some sectors of the Church undermine public trust, and urged churches to implement robust internal structures that promote ethical stewardship, responsible prophetic practices and disciplined ministry, ensuring that spiritual leaders remain credible moral voices in the nation.
