Proliferation of Churches not affecting moral decadence - Minister

Sunyani (B/A) Aug. 3 GNA - Mr Kwadwo Nyamekye-Marfo, Brong-Ahafo Regional Minister, has observed that in spite of the proliferation of churches, moral degeneration has been on ascendancy especially among the youth.

He mentioned some of the challenges that confronted the youth as violence, robbery, suicide, drug peddling, prostitution and the spread of HIV/AIDS, which he said, was worrying.

Mr Nyamekye-Marfo said this in a speech read for him at the opening of the 27th Annual National Delegates' conference of the Men's Fellowship of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana in Sunyani. "Unfortunately the church appears helpless in the face of all these that have led to destruction and ultimately loss of lives", the Regional Minister said.

The four-day conference is under the theme: "Put on the whole armour of God, men as soldiers of God".

Mr Nyamekye-Marfo underscored the importance for church leaders to tell their congregations the truth about life and the principles of God. He urged the Church to help bring back its proverbial discipline, transparency, accountability, honesty and fairness among Ghanaians. "This I believe would inculcate in us a new strength and vigour to make us respond more meaningfully to the emerging challenges that face us as Ghanaians", Mr Nyamekye-Marfo stressed. He said government appreciated the role the religious bodies play in the socio-economic development of the country and urged Churches especially to use their pulpits to educate members about government policies, and civic rights and responsibilities.

Right Reverend Dr Yaw Frimpong-Manso, Moderator of the General Assembly of the church expressed appreciation to the fellowship for their immense contribution to the church. He noted that the theme for the conference was appropriate and timely.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Frimpong-Manso advised the fellowship to redouble efforts to win more souls for Christ and to be effective leaders of their respective congregations. Brother Lt. Col J.Y Asamoah, National President, said the fellowship priority areas were education, evangelism, development and finance. He advised the leadership of the fellowship to guide the men according to the tenets and dictates of the Church's constitution.