Ghana Baptist Convention calls for national unity, environmental protection and social media responsibility at 62nd Annual Session

The Ghana Baptist Convention (GBC) has called on Ghanaians to embrace unity, morality, and responsibility as part of efforts to address pressing national challenges, including illegal mining, electoral violence, and online indiscipline.

This appeal was made at the Convention’s 62nd Annual Session, held from August 26–30, 2025, at the Baptist Women’s Retreat Centre in Ejura, Ashanti Region.

The event, themed “The Disciplined Church Reflecting Christ to the World,” brought together delegates from across the country to deliberate on denominational growth strategies and national development issues.

The Convention reaffirmed its commitment to church growth and leadership development under its operation 2000 by 2030 policy, which seeks to strengthen congregations nationwide.

Among the key denominational resolutions were;

The formation of a research department to support strategic planning.

A feasibility study on migrating to a centralized system for ministerial remuneration.

A comprehensive review of the Executive Presidency System of church governance.

The annulment of the 1998 resolution limiting women’s ministry roles, paving the way for women to fully exercise their calling within the church.

The declaration of all tertiary institutions in Ghana as mission fields, with the aim of transitioning local campus fellowships into recognized churches under pastoral care.

Delegates also used the platform to address pressing national issues;

Urging the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and political parties to ensure peaceful by-elections in Akwatia and beyond.

Calling on government and civil society to intensify efforts against illegal mining, citing the environmental devastation caused by galamsey.

Advocating for responsible social media use, with respect for cultural values and human dignity.

Encouraging the adoption of conflict resolution tools to replace violence in addressing disputes, particularly in conflict-prone regions.

In his press briefing, Rev. Enoch Nii Narh Thompson, Executive President of the GBC, highlighted illegal mining, online indiscipline, and unrest in the Upper Regions as critical challenges confronting Ghana.

“As a church, we emphasize responsible stewardship and environmental conservation. We urge all Christians and citizens to prioritize the preservation of our natural resources for future generations,” Rev. Thompson said.

He also urged Ghanaians to be responsible in their social media interactions, stressing the need to promote positivity and moral values online. On regional conflicts, he called for dialogue and peaceful engagement among all stakeholders to safeguard national stability.

Rev Thompson reaffirmed the Convention’s role in promoting positive societal transformation through preaching the gospel, discipling believers, and partnering with stakeholders to address development challenges.

“We are committed to being a force for good in our nation,” he said. “By working together, we can overcome our challenges and build a society that reflects the values of love, compassion, and justice.”

The Convention, led by Moderator Rev Dr Fred Deegbe and Rev Thompson, concluded with a renewed pledge to strengthen its mission and actively contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic progress.