Priest disappointed at commercialising of "pastoral work"

Ho, April 15, GNA- Dr. Dontoh Emeh, the Rector of the Word and Spirit Divinity College at Ho, on Saturday expressed disappointment at the way some self acclaimed men of God were commercialising "pastoral work" in the country.

He said the situation was fast becoming normal and if not checked, could dent the dignity and credibility of the Church. Dr. Emeh who was speaking at the first graduation ceremony of the College in Ho, observed that many pastors had made the attainment of material gains a priority and were prepared to achieve greatness and wealth by fair or foul means.

He observed that such pastors ignored the message of salvation and gave fake prophecies to extort money from their unsuspecting congregations.

Dr. Emeh said those pastors more often than not turn the Churches into " business centres" and make sure their " clients" were drained of any money before they were allowed to leave the chapel. He said such practices were a mockery of the " Church of Jesus Christ" and called on true men of God to restore the image of the Church.

Dr. Emeh urged the grandaunts not to consider the work of God as a moneymaking venture but to remain faithful to God's calling for Him to lift them up.

Apostle Dr. Gilbert Okechy, Executive President of the College, who commissioned the newly ordained pastors advised them not to limit their work to urban areas but to spread the gospel wherever there were people.

A total of 16 successful students were awarded with Diploma in Theology with 14 others including Togbe Kwaku Ayim IV, Paramount Chief of Ziavi Traditional Area honoured with awards of merits.