The Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, Hon. Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, has called on Christians to rise as agents of moral renewal and national transformation, stressing that the true message of Christmas is a life committed to service, integrity and positive influence.
He was speaking on behalf of the Chief of Staff of the Republic of Ghana, Hon. Julius Debrah, at the climax of the Church of Pentecost Christmas Convention held at the Ofankor in Accra.
The convention, which attracted a large congregation, was held under the theme: “The Baby in the Manger, Transformer of Lives and Nations” (Acts 10:38; Luke 2:12).
In his address, Hon. Afriyie-Ankrah conveyed warm greetings from the Chief of Staff and, on behalf of His Excellency the President of the Republic of Ghana, expressed deep appreciation to the Church of Pentecost for its unwavering prayers, spiritual leadership and immense contribution to Ghana’s social and moral development.
“The Chief of Staff wishes me to assure you that government recognises the Church of Pentecost as a dependable partner in nation-building. Your prayers, discipline and community impact continue to strengthen the moral fibre of our country,” he said.
Reflecting on the convention theme, the Presidential Envoy described the birth of Jesus Christ as a powerful paradox, noting that although Christ was born in a manger, He went on to transform lives, systems and nations.
“God’s greatest instruments often arrive quietly, but they never leave the world unchanged. The manger teaches us that transformation begins with humility, obedience and a heart committed to service,” Hon. Afriyie-Ankrah stated.
Quoting Acts 10:38, he urged believers to emulate Christ by “going about doing good”, adding that Christianity must be visible in everyday life.
“To be a Christian in Ghana today is to be an agent of change — in the home, the market, the classroom, the office and in public life. Christmas is not just a celebration; it is a divine call to transformation,” he emphasised.
He further linked the message of Christmas to the Church of Pentecost’s 2025 theme, “Unleashed to Live a Life Worthy of Your Calling”, urging Christians to reflect on their conduct.
“To be unleashed is not to be careless; it is to be commissioned. A life worthy of our calling chooses integrity over corruption, service over selfishness, peace over division and excellence over mediocrity,” he said.
Touching on the Church’s broader vision of “Possessing the Nations”, Hon. Afriyie-Ankrah explained that national transformation is achieved through godly influence rather than force.
“Nations are possessed when believers shape policy with wisdom, conduct business ethically, serve in public office with humility and heal social divisions through love and truth,” he noted.
He also highlighted Ghana’s ongoing development efforts under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, describing the President as a leader who openly acknowledges God’s role in governance.
“The Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, wishes to reiterate that this government views leadership as a sacred trust. From economic stabilisation to infrastructure expansion, the focus remains on improving the lives of ordinary Ghanaians,” he said.
Quoting the Chief of Staff, he added:
“Government can design policies, but it is prayer that sustains the nation. When the Church stands in the gap, Ghana stands strong.”
He, therefore, appealed to the Church of Pentecost to continue praying for national leadership, supporting peace and development initiatives and promoting unity.
“A praying Church is the greatest asset of a prosperous nation,” he stressed.
The well-attended event brought together key government officials, including the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo; the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Hon. Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey; the Member of Parliament for Trobu, Hon. Gloria Owusu; and the Municipal Chief Executive for Trobu, Hon. Akwetey Agbo, alongside clergy, traditional leaders and members of the congregation.
In his concluding remarks, Hon. Afriyie-Ankrah reminded the congregation that God uses the humble to confound the mighty and transforms individuals to ultimately transform nations.
“The Baby in the Manger grew to change the world. May we also leave this convention transformed and committed to transforming others,” he said.
He ended by wishing the Church of Pentecost and all Ghanaians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous, purpose-driven New Year.
“God bless the Church of Pentecost, and God bless our homeland Ghana,” he concluded.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
