Church leaders must adopt new lifestyles-Nana Nketsia

Effiakuma (W/R), April 30, GNA - Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Omanhene of Essikadu, has said it was sad and unfortunate that some pastors and church leaders were cheating and duping their congregations. He said such acts were in sharp contrast to the word of God and should cease.

Nana Nketsia said these at the opening of the 15th Sekondi Diocesan Delegate's conference of the Association of Methodist Men's Fellowships at Effiakuma on Saturday.

It was on the theme: "You Are The Light". He said the desire for material wealth by some religious leaders was an affront to Christianity and urged all leaders to re-focus, study the bible and avoid living extravagant lifestyles. He said selfishness, greed and the desire for positions in the many societies, churches and communities was hindering the communal spirit and rather encouraging personal glory. Nana Nketsia therefore, charged churches to educate their members to change their mind set, adopt new strategies towards the advancement of society and their neighbours.

Reverend Ernest Mensah, Minister in charge of the Kwesiministim Methodist Church said the adoption of a compromising stand on several social issues by Christians was affecting the effectiveness of the church. He said the church must speak against sexual promiscuity, irrespective of its origin, adding, 'without a religious voice, morality would be substituted with idealism". Rev. Mensah charged Christians to rise up and defend the truth, irrespective of the consequences. Mr Reynolds O. Antwi, Diocesan Chairman, said the fellowship would begin a 10-acre rubber plantation within the diocese in June this year. He urged members to assist in making the vision a success.