Methodist Presiding Bishop Warns: “Environmental Destruction Is a Prophetic Crisis — The Church Must Act”

The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, Most Rev. Prof. Johnson Kwabena Asamoah‑Gyadu, has urged the church to broaden its understanding of Christian stewardship and take a stronger prophetic stand against the growing environmental destruction across the country.

He said Christian responsibility must go beyond meeting the spiritual needs of individuals to safeguarding communities and the wider creation.

Speaking at the formal opening of the 52nd Conference of the Methodist Church Ghana at St. Paul Cathedral, Tema, last Wednesday, the Presiding Bishop cited the recent devastating floods as evidence of Ghana’s failure to uphold responsible stewardship of the environment.

The conference, themed “Working in the Word: Equipped for Every Good Work,” brought together clergy, lay leaders, ecumenical partners and stakeholders to review the church’s work and set priorities for the coming Connexional Year.

Most Rev. Asamoah‑Gyadu identified the destruction of arable lands and the pollution of water bodies through illegal small‑scale mining (galamsey) as urgent environmental concerns that must form part of the church’s prophetic witness.

“The recent devastating deluge exposed the inadequate conception of Christian stewardship. The continued devastation of arable lands and pollution of water bodies through illegal mining must be seen as part of our prophetic challenge.”

He said Christian mission must embrace the whole person — body, soul and spirit — and must engage issues that affect the quality of life and wellbeing of society.

The Presiding Bishop described children’s ministry and youth ministry as strategic pillars of the church’s future. He warned against relegating children’s activities to the margins of church life, stressing that the denomination’s long‑term survival depends on the quality of ministry offered to its youngest members.

He also emphasised the need to create space for young people to contribute meaningfully to the church’s mission, noting that their energy and creativity are essential to growth.

He announced that the Youth Auditorium Project at the Methodist Youth Development Centre in Aburi was progressing steadily and expected to be completed by September 2026 as part of the church’s 190th anniversary celebrations.

The church will intensify fundraising to rehabilitate hostel facilities at the centre and expand space for entrepreneurial workshops.

He further disclosed plans for a Methodist Church Ghana Retreat Centre at Prampram, to be developed in phases, beginning with meeting facilities. The Freeman Centre for Leadership Development and Guesthouse will also be upgraded, while discussions continue with a potential developer for the redevelopment of the old Wesley House.

Most Rev. Asamoah‑Gyadu called for responsible use of social media by ministers and lay members. While acknowledging its growing importance in Christian ministry, he cautioned against misuse that could bring the church into disrepute.

Lay President Kwasi Attah‑Antwi praised the Presiding Bishop for presenting a clear vision for the church, noting that the conference had taken note of key issues including worship, spiritual development, social responsibility and infrastructure growth.

Guest of honour, Dr George Agyekum Donkor, President of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development, urged the church to renew its commitment to evangelism, discipline and responsible stewardship. He called for intentional evangelism — church planting, strengthened congregations and digital outreach through online discipleship and virtual Bible studies.

He encouraged the church to remain united and relevant to present and future generations.

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