Interfaith harmony, a prerequisite for national peace

Reverend Dr. Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana, has noted that interfaith harmony was critical to national peace and development.

He said it was imperative for religious bodies to tolerate each other for peaceful existence, adding that, the country may have different religious faiths but need to unite and chart the path of national development.

Rev Opuni-Frimpong said this on Sunday in Accra at a musical concept christened: “Thousand Voices “to climax the interfaith harmony week 2015.

The week-long programme, which was celebrated on the theme “One Nation, Many Faiths” started from September 28 to October 4, 2015, and featured activities such as games, musical concerts, quiz, lectures and debates in the country.

The programme was organized by the CCG and the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Ghana (CIMG).

The event also brought together various youth choirs groups as part of activities to mark the interfaith harmony week celebration, aimed at promoting peace, unity, religious tolerance and development in the country.

The ceremony witnessed thrilling and electrifying songs ranging from patriotic songs, Hymns, contemporary songs and a rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus, with the national symphony orchestra in attendance.

Rev Opuni Frimpong said with the massive response from the stakeholders, the event would be sustained and celebrated annually to preach peace and unity.

He implored the youth to be vigilant and not to allow any political party to influence them to mar the peace the country was enjoying.

A message read on behalf of Dr Shola Safo Duodu, National President of the CIMG, said the institute thought it prudent to be part of the event because of the importance it attaches to national peace and unity, adding that, the institute would continue to support activities to promote peace.

Mr Yssif Usain, a representative from the Muslim Community, lauded the initiative and assured organizers of the participation of Muslims in subsequent events as a sign of religious tolerance.

He expressed concern about the media's handling of a recent reportage, which associated Muslims with terrorist acts.