Ajumako Bisease (C/R), Dec. 29, GNA - The Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Miss Sherry Ayittey, has said that both the church and state had a common vision of seeking the development of the country.

She said whilst the state continues to focus its attention on the secular needs of its citizens, the church provides the spiritual needs of the citizens. "It is therefore imperative that with unity of purpose by both the state and church, the agenda of government is implemented in the interest of all Ghanaians".

Miss Ayittey said this at the 70th Anniversary celebration of the Saint Luke Anglican Church at Ajumako Bisease.

The Minister said the "password should be loyalty, collaboration, cooperation and support for the achievement of common objective". She said government was happy that the church was interested and acting actively to assist in its quest to achieving a better Ghana.

Miss Ayittey said beyond the traditional role of providing hospitals, schools and other social amenities, the government was ready and willing to cooperate with the church. The Anglican Bishop for Cape Coast, Right Rev. Bishop Daniel Sylvanus Allotey, called on the society to strive for peace because it is essential for development, adding that "we must learn to tolerate one another".

The Parish Priest, Rev. Father Josiah Myles Abadoo, said the parish would soon lunch a 10-year development plan. Nana Esuon Wieldu IV, Tufohene of Bisease, commended the Anglican Church for providing education and hospital facilities throughout the country. An appeal for fund yielded 4,200.00 Ghana Cedis in aid of the church building.