General News of Thursday, 1 October 2009

Source: GNA

Craving for money by some Churches condemned

Akropong, Oct. 01, GNA - Osahene Ofei Kwasi Agyemang, Krontihene of Akuapem Traditional Area, has expressed worry about the insatiable craving some churches have for money and urged religious bodies to initiate steps to curb the desire.

He said some churches have lost focus and strayed into money making schemes to the detriment of the poor and needy in society. Osahene Agyemang, who was speaking at a durbar to mark this year's "Kronti Odwira" festival and the 10th anniversary of his enstoolment, at Akropong, said the organisation of most Church activities in Ghana aimed at economic gain.

Osahene Agyemang said for the church to be a responsible stakeholder in the development of the society, it must not only focus on the provision of amenities and materials for the comfort of church leaders but that they should also seek the socio-economic wellbeing of their members.

He called on traditional leaders to unite and work towards the development of their communities. The Chief of Akyem-Kamena, Nana Okoforobuo Otwasuo Nyampong, called on his colleagues to avoid rivalry and champion the cause of development of the area.

He advised the chiefs to abide by the succession plan of the Traditional Area to avoid chieftaincy disputes. Nana Nyampong asked the chiefs to emulate Osahene Agyemang, who has helped in the provision of pipe-borne water to communities in Akuapem and bursaries to over 850 needy but brilliant children. Former ministers of state including Ms. Gloria Akuffo and Mr. William Ofori Boafo and chiefs from various tradition areas including the Mamfehene, Nana Ansah Sasraku, participated in the celebration. 01 Oct. 09