In a powerful address delivered at the dedication of a newly constructed 800-capacity cathedral in Wenchi, New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia underscored the critical role of religion in fostering national unity rather than division. Speaking during a ceremony commemorating the late Prof. Kofi Abrefa Busia, Ghana’s former Prime Minister, Dr. Bawumia emphasized that faith should serve as a cornerstone for nation-building, rooted in character, service, and mutual respect across religious lines.
The event, held on Saturday, marked the anniversary of Prof. Busia’s passing and coincided with the inauguration of the Lighthouse Chapel International Cathedral, a project financed by the late statesman’s descendants and former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. The cathedral, equipped with modern amenities, stands as a testament to the Busia family’s commitment to preserving their father’s legacy—a legacy Dr. Bawumia described as deeply intertwined with faith, integrity, and public service.
A Cathedral of Legacy and Reflection
The dedication ceremony, themed “Faith That Builds Nations: Character, Service and the Ghana We Want to Build Together,” featured a 90-minute biographical film titled “The Prof: A Heart of Faith.” The documentary retraced Prof. Busia’s journey from his humble beginnings in Wenchi to his illustrious career as an academic, economist, and statesman, culminating in his tenure as Prime Minister from 1969 to 1972. The film highlighted how his unwavering faith shaped his leadership, instilling in him a sense of moral responsibility and a commitment to democratic governance.
Dr. Bawumia, while acknowledging Prof. Busia’s political contributions, stressed that his life was far more than politics alone—it was a living testament to the transformative power of faith.
“His life cannot be reduced to politics alone; it is a story that is shaped by faith. His faith formed him, and because he was anchored on strong values, he was able to serve with a moral seriousness that still speaks to us today.”
The NPP flagbearer urged Ghanaians to reflect on the nature of their own faith—whether it fosters unity, service, and societal progress or merely serves as a source of division. He argued that true faith must actively contribute to building a better society, aligning with Prof. Busia’s belief in human dignity, democratic governance, and the principle that government exists to serve the people, not the other way around.
Religion as a Bridge, Not a Divide
In a symbolic gesture that resonated deeply with the nation’s religious diversity, Dr. Bawumia, as a Muslim, addressed the congregation in a Christian cathedral. His presence was not merely symbolic but a reaffirmation of Ghana’s long-standing interfaith harmony, a blessing he urged the nation to cherish.
“In many parts of the world, religion has become a source of suspicion and conflict. But in Ghana, by the grace of God, faith can still be a bridge. This blessing we must protect jealously. We must never take it for granted.”
He called for a collective commitment to preserving religious tolerance, emphasizing that faith should unify rather than polarize. His words echoed the core message of the event: that character, service, and shared values—not religious affiliation—should define how Ghanaians interact and collaborate.
“Faith should not divide us but deepen our humanity. It should not weaken us but enrich us. It should not judge one another by labels but by the quality of our character and the sincerity of our service.”
Archbishop Fabin’s Commendation and Theological Insight
Archbishop Eddie Fabin, preaching on behalf of Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, the founder of Lighthouse Chapel International, praised the Busia family for their visionary contribution to religious and national heritage. Drawing from 1 Kings 8:18, where King David’s son Solomon builds the Temple, Archbishop Fabin noted the propriety of Prof. Busia’s descendants erecting a house of worship in his honor.
“Just as David’s son built the temple, it was fitting that Prof. Busia’s children built a house for the Lord. This cathedral is not just a structure; it is a legacy of faith, service, and national unity.”
The Archbishop’s remarks reinforced the event’s theme, positioning the cathedral as more than an architectural marvel but as a symbol of Ghana’s religious pluralism and shared aspirations for a future built on mutual respect and collective purpose.
A Call to Action for National Cohesion
Dr. Bawumia’s address was a timely reminder of the fragility of Ghana’s interfaith harmony in an era where religious tensions often dominate global discourse. By standing in a Christian cathedral as a Muslim leader, he personally embodied the nation’s religious unity, challenging Ghanaians to reflect on how they can strengthen rather than undermine this bond.
His message was clear: Faith must be a force for good, shaping leaders who prioritize service over self-interest, morality over corruption, and unity over division. Prof. Busia’s life, as Dr. Bawumia highlighted, remains a beacon of what is possible when faith is aligned with purpose.
As Ghana continues to navigate political and social challenges, the dedication of this cathedral serves as a powerful declaration—one that calls upon all citizens to honor their religious differences while working together toward a common vision of progress and peace.
The event in Wenchi was not just a celebration of the past but a call to action, urging Ghanaians to build a future where faith remains a unifying force, not a divisive one.
