A.M.E. Zion Church Board of Bishops to Make Historic Visit to Ghana

ACCRA: Members of the Board of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Zion Church are set to embark on a landmark visit to Ghana from December 14 to 20, 2024. This visit marks the first occasion in the church's over 200-year history that the Board of Bishops, mainly based in the United States, will unite for a group visit to an African nation.According to Ghana News Agency, the announcement was made through a statement by Rev. David K. Zungbey, the Episcopal Secretary of the A.M.E. Zion Church. The visit will include several key activities, such as media engagement sessions and trips to various locations including Keta, Anloga, and Cape Coast.The bishops are also scheduled to pay courtesy calls on prominent figures, including President Akufo-Addo, President-Elect John Mahama, and the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana. A significant highlight of the visit will be the Chapel Dedication Service at St John Society in Keta, which is the oldest A.M.E. Zion church in Ghana, established in 1899.While in Ac cra, the bishops will tour several sites of historical and cultural importance, such as the Dubois Centre, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Arts Centre, James Town Lighthouse, and Ussher Fort.Right Reverend Dr. Hilliard K. Dela Dogbe, a Ghanaian and the first Indigenous African Resident Bishop of the church for the Western-West Africa Episcopal District, currently serves as the President of the Board of Bishops. He was elected during the 52nd Quadrennial Session of the General Conference of the church held in Greensboro, North Carolina, USA, from July 24 to 28, 2024.The General Conference, which convenes every four years, is the highest legislative body of the A.M.E. Zion Church. Globally, the church is organized into twelve Episcopal Districts, each led by a Bishop. The Board of Bishops, which includes all active and retired Bishops, provides general oversight for the church between General Conferences.