The newly consecrated Coadjutor Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Sunyani, Rev. Martin Apraku Amankwah, has urged Ghanaians to embrace Christian values to address selfishness, political divisions and environmental destruction.
He said excessive desire for wealth and possessions, coupled with partisan differences, was creating divisions among people and weakening relationships within families and communities.
Rev. Amankwah made the remarks after his consecration and episcopal ordination last Sunday. He was elected to the position at a Special Synod on April 11, 2026, and his election was subsequently endorsed by the bishops of the Church.
He called on the Church to place greater emphasis on the teachings and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, saying the gospel could inspire people to overcome their differences and work towards shared goals.
“At the cross, greed and the thought that I am better than someone else because we belong to different political parties can get lost,” he said.
The bishop explained that his reflection on the word of God had led him to view selfishness as a major cause of several societal challenges. He said applying Christ’s teachings could encourage peaceful coexistence and greater concern for the environment.
He stressed that political affiliations should not prevent citizens from cooperating on issues affecting their communities, particularly environmental protection and public welfare.
Rev. Amankwah also highlighted the importance of teaching children good moral values from an early age. He said Christian education could help shape responsible individuals who respected human life and understood their duties to society.
He disclosed that school worship had been an important part of his ministry from its early years, during which he regularly participated in services for pupils from kindergarten to junior high school.
“When these are inculcated into them at that age, we believe they will be more nationalistic and they will really be instruments for the progress of this nation,” he said.
He expressed hope that the Church would strengthen its engagement with educational institutions to nurture young people with strong moral principles and a sense of responsibility.
Rev. Amankwah added that he intended to work with other church leaders to develop systems that would support these efforts and encourage children to become responsible citizens.
