Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, has called on Christian ministers to deploy their spiritual gifts in service to humanity and national development, stressing that divine endowments are meant for stewardship rather than self-advancement.
Delivering a keynote address as Special Guest of Honour at the Annual Ministerial Prayer Conference of the Christ Apostolic Church International, themed “Gifted to Bless the World” (1 Peter 4:10), Afriyie-Ankrah conveyed warm greetings from President John Dramani Mahama and commended the Church for its historic contribution to prayer, holiness, moral leadership and national renewal.
He praised the Christ Apostolic Church International for raising generations of men and women of faith and apostolic authority, noting that the Church’s sustained investment in prayer remains vital to the stability and destiny of Ghana.
Reflecting on the conference theme, the Presidential Envoy reminded ministers that spiritual gifts are entrusted for service to God, the Church and society.
“Ministers are gifted not merely to fill churches, but to shape consciences; not only to confront darkness, but to build institutions that bear light,” he said.
Afriyie-Ankrah underscored the Church’s role as the conscience of the nation, particularly in times of moral decline and economic pressure.
Quoting Matthew 5:14, he observed that the Church must shine brightest when challenges deepen, adding that light dispels darkness without competition.
Drawing lessons from the biblical figures Ezra and Nehemiah, he emphasised the balance between prayer and action.
He noted that Ezra prioritised repentance and spiritual reformation as the foundation for national restoration, while Nehemiah demonstrated that prayer must be matched with strategic leadership and implementation.
“Prayer empowers strategy; it does not replace it,” he stated.
The Envoy further highlighted the need for vigilance in nation-building, citing Nehemiah’s example of rebuilding with both commitment and defence.
According to him, spiritual warfare requires discernment, endurance and engagement, combining intercession with practical responsibility.
Touching on governance and national stability, Afriyie-Ankrah affirmed that prayer remains Ghana’s greatest strength.
He acknowledged the indispensable role of the Church in sustaining peace, guiding leadership and preserving democratic institutions, assuring the clergy of the Government’s appreciation for their prayers and moral counsel.
He concluded the conference address with a call for unity, resilience and hope among ministers, urging them to continue praying fervently, preaching truth boldly, mentoring the next generation and blessing the world through faithful service.
In a related development, Afriyie-Ankrah has extended warm New Year greetings to Christian leaders, Muslim clerics, traditional authorities and people of faith across the country, urging them to continue playing their vital role in safeguarding Ghana’s peace and unity.
Delivering the New Year message on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, he conveyed the President’s goodwill to faith communities nationwide and wished them a peaceful, healthy and prosperous year.
He paid glowing tribute to faith leaders and religious institutions for their enduring contributions to moral guidance, social cohesion, peacebuilding and national development, stressing that Ghana’s long-standing stability has been sustained largely through their prayers, counsel and leadership.
Afriyie-Ankrah expressed deep appreciation to President Mahama for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment, noting that the President’s vision of a Ghana united in diversity and firmly anchored in peace continues to guide government engagement with faith communities.
He also acknowledged the support of the Office of the Chief of Staff, the Deputy Chiefs of Staff and collaborating Ministries, Departments and Agencies, including the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Reflecting on the past year, the Government Envoy commended faith communities for their steadfast leadership during moments of national challenge, observing that their commitment to prayer, dialogue and calm counsel helped reinforce national unity and stability.
Looking ahead, he reassured Ghanaians of a positive economic outlook under President Mahama’s leadership, stating that the government remains committed to economic stabilisation, job creation, inclusive growth and responsible governance. He expressed confidence that, with patience, hope and collective responsibility, the Reset Agenda would deliver the desired results.
Describing peace as Ghana’s greatest national asset, Afriyie-Ankrah emphasised that while the government remains resolute in protecting democracy and religious tolerance, the responsibility for sustaining peace rests with all citizens.
He therefore called on all faith traditions to deepen interfaith collaboration, reject intolerance and continue promoting unity from churches, mosques and other sacred spaces.
He further announced a number of upcoming interfaith initiatives in the year ahead, including the second edition of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, the maiden Interfaith Conference, as well as other interfaith and youth engagements, and appealed for the continued partnership and leadership of faith communities.
Afriyie-Ankrah appealed for prayers for the nation and its leadership, expressing hope that the New Year would bring peace to Ghanaian homes, strength to national institutions and renewed hope to every citizen.
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Meanwhile, watch as NDC MPs and party leadership pay tribute to late Naser Toure Mahama
