On the occasion of the celebration of 170 years of existence as a faith community, on behalf of General Assembly of Presbyterian Church of Ghana, and on my own behalf, I extend to you fraternal greetings and congratulate you for your achievement.

One hundred and seventy years, by all human standards is a long period existence. Considering your initial formation, growth, expansion and consolidation, I have every reason to believe that you have a lot to tell - a story that would reflect years of achievements and failure.

The Presbyterian Church of Ghana has followed with keen interest the growth of Christ Church, Akuapem-Akropong, especially in your evangelistic and outreach programmes. God indeed has been gracious to you in bringing you thus far.

On this memorable occasion I would like you to pause briefly and give thanks to God for the lives of the missionaries who brought God’s Word and true Light to us. We can attest to the fact that the light they lit over a century ago is still burning and will never grow deem. As you celebrate 170 years of existence in colourful anniversary thanksgiving we need to remember that but for their sacrificial and dedicated service the story today would have been different.

Do not be complacent with your achievements. Instead, let whatever gains you have made be a springboard that will propel you into a more aggressive evangelistic and pastoral drive. If 170 years ago you started with the message of repentance because the Kingdom of God was at hand, you could well imagine how close we are to it today. Do not only take delight in welcoming new members into your church (people joining because of transfer and relocation) or just opening up new congregations because a few people have decided to worship closer to their homes. Be reminded that there is still large ground to be covered in your mission and evangelism efforts. I hope that you will evolve new strategies that would enhance and improve upon your performance in these fields so as to robe in the many who are still on the periphery of the Church and have not had the real opportunity of being challenged with Good News of Christ Jesus, Our Lord and Saviour.

It is my prayer that after 170 years of missionary experience, you will do well to respond to the modern social problems confronting the membership of the congregation and your community. Of particular concern to me is the aged, widows and orphans, who need your material and spiritual support in this time of their lives. The youth constituency must equally be your concern as they look for job opportunities and as they endeavour to live more morally acceptable lifestyle in a society full of many challenges. In this regard you must pursue rigorous Bible Studies to help the youth among you to be established firmly in the faith and in sound moral practices as to enable them avoid the deadly HIV and AIDS.

Once again my congratulations to you for such a wonderful achievement and for the 170th Anniversary. May the good Lord bless you with more purposeful years of activities.

RT. REV. DR. YAW FRIMPONG-MANSO MODERATOR OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.