Ho-kpodzi: Right Rev. Dr. Lt. Col. Bliss Divine K. Agbeko (Rtd), Moderator of the General Assembly of the Evangelical Presbyterian (E.P.) Church, Ghana, has charged 18 newly consecrated presbyters of the church to embrace humility, faithfulness, and selfless service in their ministry. The consecration service, held at the E.P. Church, Dela Parish, Ho-Kpodzi, drew clergy, traditional leaders, government officials, and members of the congregation, who joined in celebrating the milestone.
According to Ghana News Agency, notable among the newly consecrated Presbyters were Mrs. Mariam Jemima Akua Adzroe, Volta Regional Deputy Director of Education, Dr. Dickson Tsey, Principal of Amedzofe College of Education, and Mr. Harrison Delali K. Asiamoaso of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA). In his sermon, Rt. Rev. Agbeko urged the presbyters to view their role as a sacred calling rather than a position of privilege. ‘Being a presbyter is not about status but sacrifice. You have been called to shepherd, support, and lead with compassion. Let your lives reflect Christ in every way,’ he told the congregation.
He reminded the new leaders that the office of presbyter was central to the growth of the E.P. Church, as they were expected to work closely with pastors in overseeing both the spiritual and administrative life of the parish. ‘The role of presbyters is not to be served but to serve. Leadership in the church is about sacrifice, stewardship, and commitment to the welfare of others,’ Rt. Rev. Agbeko added.
The new presbyters took solemn vows of faith, loyalty, and dedication before the altar, committing themselves to uphold the doctrines and traditions of the E.P. Church. Philippians 2:4-5 – ‘Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others. Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus’ – were recited to inspire their ministry.
Mr. James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister, in a goodwill message, congratulated the presbyters and urged them to discharge their responsibilities with integrity. Mr. Richmond Edem Kpotosu, Member of Parliament for Ho Central, also wished them well and assured them of his continuous support.
The Dela Parish Presbyters Association commended the newly consecrated leaders for their patience and dedication during their serving. ‘Leadership within the Christian fraternity is a special calling. God has extended this invitation to you to serve as overseers, and we pray you find joy and satisfaction in this sacred responsibility,’ Presbyters Association said in a statement.
It further encouraged them to remain steadfast in their calling. ‘Your decision to live a life of service to others has opened a new chapter in your life. May God grant us the spirit of togetherness as we work in His vineyard. Fellow Presbyters, you are most welcome.’
The Ho-East Presbytery Presbyters’ Union also extended felicitations, recalling the candidates’ dedication during their year-long preparation. ‘We witnessed firsthand your faith, commitment, and spiritual growth during the formation process. This journey has prepared you for the great work that lies ahead,’ the Union noted.
Presbyter Mrs. Angelica Attakey, President of the Union, expressed confidence that the new presbyters would work together with their colleagues to shepherd the flock and advance the mission of the church. ‘Your passion and fervor will undoubtedly contribute to the continued spiritual and physical growth of the E.P. Church,’ she said.
The Union prayed for strength and wisdom for the presbyters in their new ministry, declaring: ‘May the Lord God bless you with courage in your service to His Kingdom. We pray for a powerful ministry ahead. Di Yesu! Tutuutu!’
The consecration service coupled with joyful songs, prayers of thanksgiving, and the blessing of the presbyters, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the Dela Parish, Ho-Kpodzi.