Religion of Saturday, 19 July 2025

Source: Annette Nettey, Contributor

Serving God means serving our community – Rev Daniel Dake

Rev Daniel Dake said sanitation is a shared responsibility Rev Daniel Dake said sanitation is a shared responsibility

The Green Pastures TPH Church has undertaken a community clean-up exercise to demonstrate its commitment to environmental stewardship and civic responsibility.

The initiative, which forms part of activities outlined for the church’s 7th anniversary celebrations, was held on Saturday, July 12, 2025. It also reflects ongoing efforts to improve sanitation and promote behavioral change among residents.

Head Pastor of Green Pastures Church, Rev Daniel Dake, explained the inspiration behind the clean-up.

“During one of my regular walks across the Shiashie footbridge, I was struck by how filthy the place had become. I felt we couldn’t celebrate our anniversary without doing something about it,” he said.

He noted that the church decided to integrate the clean-up into its anniversary celebrations as a way to fulfill its mandate of supporting the community in tackling sanitation challenges.

Rev Dake further emphasised that while faith-based groups can play a vital role in promoting cleanliness, government support is essential in ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for all.

“Where do you see a clean city from? The streets and the main transport areas. When the roadsides are unkempt, it affects everyone in the country. But when you start cleaning, it has a ripple effect on neighborhoods,” he said.

“Sanitation is a shared responsibility. We need stronger enforcement of environmental laws and greater investment in waste management,” he added.

He also mentioned that the church intends to sustain the clean-up efforts and called on corporate bodies to partner with the church in supporting such initiatives to help maintain a clean environment, promote public health, and enhance the country’s appeal to investors.

During the clean-up, church members also shared the gospel and demonstrated the love of Christ through evangelism to community members and passers-by.

Beyond the clean-up, the church has lined up several community outreach programs as part of its anniversary celebrations. These include a medical screening exercise, donations to underprivileged families, and youth mentorship sessions.

“We have a Praise Concert coming up on Wednesday, the 16th, to thank God for seven years of the church. The church is the body and lifeline of Christ, and we’re marking this milestone by celebrating seven years of growth, unity, and shared accomplishments,” Rev Dake shared.

“Following the music night, we’ll continue with our ‘Expectations’ programme, running from Tuesday the 22nd to Friday the 25th. We’ve decided to combine both events to make this season of thanksgiving and anticipation even more impactful.”