Religious diversity is critical for nation’s progress – Pro Adarkwa

A new religious book that seeks to inspire African Christians to use their own cultural heritage to form their Christian identity has been launched by Professor Kwasi Kwafo Adarkwa.

The 271 page-book is titled “Indigenous knowledge and Christian mission.”

It was authored by the Reverend Dr Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, Chairperson of the Asante Presbytery.

Issues treated in the book includes: Impact of Christian faith on Akan worldview and western missionary interpretation of indigenous knowledge system; Christian faith and Akan indigenous knowledge systems; Constructing Akan Christian leadership theology; and “Theological construction of Akan chieftaincy institution.”

The book, which has a cover price of GH¢25.00, highlights the motives of the western missionaries, conversion to Christianity through schools, theology of oath-swearing and leadership as a service.

The first copy was presented to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

Launching it at a well attended ceremony at the Adum Ramseyer Presbyterian Church, Prof Adarkwa who is also the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), recognized the significant role chiefs played in the advent and spread of Christianity.

The traditional rulers, he noted, since the coming of the European missionaries had been supportive of the propagation of gospel, collaborating with church leaders to undertake various development projects to advance the cause of humanity.

He spoke of how the chiefs and the church acted together to build hospitals, schools, leadership training centres and provision of infrastructure to make life better for the people.

Prof Adarkwa underlined the importance of religious diversity, saying it promotes human growth and commended the author for the extensive research work done and publication of the book.

The Rev Dr Opuni-Frimpong, said he was motivated by the tremendous support and cooperation the church had received since its establishment in Kumasi and continue to receive from Manhyia Palace.**