President John Dramani Mahama has lauded the Christian Council of Ghana and the wider Christian community for what he described as their “enduring and indispensable contribution” to national development, affirming the Church as one of the State’s most dependable partners in advancing social progress and moral renewal.
The President’s message was delivered on his behalf by Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, at the 2025 Ecumenical Convention held in Accra on Sunday, November 16, 2025.
The gathering focused on the theme, “Uniting the Body of Christ for Greater Impact” (Ephesians 4:3–13), drawing together denominational leaders, clergy, and lay representatives from across the country.
President Mahama expressed deep appreciation for the Christian community’s prayers and support throughout the years, noting that unity within the Church is essential not only as a biblical mandate but also as a national imperative. “In a world increasingly marked by division and discord, the unified voice of the Christian community is more vital than ever. A fragmented or politicised Church cannot deliver the collective impact that Ghana urgently needs,” the message stated.
The President highlighted the Church’s longstanding role in building schools, hospitals, youth development programmes, and social welfare interventions that continue to sustain communities nationwide. Through Afriyie-Ankrah, he underscored that these initiatives constitute a crucial partnership with the State. “These investments have served as a stabilising force in our national life for over a century. The government fully recognises that these efforts are not merely charitable acts but a genuine partnership with the State in serving the people of Ghana,” he said.
Afriyie-Ankrah reaffirmed the government’s commitment—under President Mahama, with the support of Chief of Staff Julius Debrah—to strengthening collaboration with the Christian Council and all faith-based organisations. He urged member churches to rise above institutional rivalries and doctrinal differences, insisting that a united front remains essential for national transformation.
He outlined the President’s vision to “reset and rebuild a united, prosperous, and peaceful Ghana,” pointing to key priorities such as education, healthcare, accountability, inclusive economic growth, and national cohesion. He stressed that the Church has an irreplaceable role in these areas through moral instruction, civic education, and sustained community engagement.
The Envoy, however, expressed concern over recent challenges within parts of the Christian community. He cited issues of financial indiscipline, doctrinal confusion, unregulated spiritual activities, and exploitative practices, warning that such trends undermine public trust. “We respectfully urge the Christian Council and all denominational leaders to strengthen internal accountability mechanisms in order to safeguard the sanctity of the pulpit and ensure ethical leadership,” he advised.
Afriyie-Ankrah concluded by calling on Christians to intensify prayers for Ghana’s leaders and institutions, emphasising the need for divine guidance as the country works toward lasting peace and development. Quoting 1 Timothy 2:1–2, he reminded the congregation of the biblical charge to pray for those in authority so that the nation may “live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
