Central Gospel Church holds second mass wedding

Accra (Greater Accra), 15 Feb '99 -

The second annual mass wedding for traditionally married couples have been held at the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) with a call on couples to make use of communications as a tool for a successful marriage. Dr Elijah Maswanganyi, a Reverend Minister from South Africa, made the call when he gave a sermon for the 53 couples whose marriages were blessed on Sunday. The occasion brought together a large crowd of relatives and well- wishers, who filled the church to capacity with some standing outside amidst African choral songs and classical music. Most of the couples aged between 27 and 50 were dressed in traditional attire. Dr Maswanganyi noted that the world is now experiencing a lot of crisis in politics, communications and socio- economics, saying: ''these do not affect only nations, churches and education, but also affects marriage, an institution established by God to be enjoyed. ''Marriage has now, however, become a source of conflict, pain, and a curse globally, which brings about either a divorce or separation.'' Dr Maswanganyi said the young generation do not even appreciate the the marriage institution because it has not worked between their parents. He stated that ''as we make an effort to bridge this gap in marriages, we must not forget that it must also be built on good foundation which requires that people should first be mature physically, mentally and spiritually''.