Accra: Right Reverend Dr Hilliard K. Dela Dogbe, President of the Global Board of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Zion Church, has lauded Ghana's democratic journey through a peaceful and successful political transition after the December 7 elections. The transition, he stressed, presented another great opportunity to accelerate the transformational agenda of the country.
According to Ghana News Agency, this was expressed in a statement issued by Rev. David K. Zungbey, Episcopal Secretary, A.M.E. Zion Church, during the recent visit to Ghana by the members of the Board of Bishops of the Church. The Bishops', the majority of whom reside in the United States of America, visited Ghana and Africa for the first time as a group in the 200-year history of the A.M.E. Zion Church. The maiden visit is due to the peaceful democratic development in the country. Among those who accompanied the Bishops were the Missionary Supervisors and the church's global administrative officials.
'For us to have a peaceful election and to welcome people from all across the world who feel safe and secure within this country, I think, is something worth giving credit for,' Dr. Dogbe said. He assured that the A.M.E. Zion Church would continue to support national development efforts in areas such as education and healthcare, aiming to promote holistic growth for all citizens.
He emphasized the church's global mission, stating, 'It's important to recognise that the A.M.E. Zion Church is a global church. As a connectional church, we continue to love and cherish who God has called us to be, to make disciples of all men across all nations.' He also urged Ghanaians to focus on growth and unity beyond electoral processes to ensure the country's continuous success.
Right Reverend Dr. Darryl B. Starnes, Senior Bishop of the A.M.E. Zion Church, described the visit to Ghana as transformative, highlighting the inspiration drawn from witnessing the country's churches and schools. He shared a poignant reflection on visiting Cape Coast, a site of historical atrocities, noting it as a powerful reminder of their ancestors' resilience.
Right Reverend Dr. W. Darin Moore referred to the journey as a homecoming, commending Ghana for its peace and ongoing strides towards prosperity. The Western-West Africa Episcopal District honoured Retired Senior Bishop Right Rev. Dr. Kenneth Monroe with a Community Worship Centre for his impactful leadership, which he acknowledged with gratitude.
During their visit, the Board of Bishops toured historical sites in Accra, Cape Coast, and Keta, and presided over the Chapel Dedication Service of St John Society, the oldest A.M.E. Zion church in Ghana, established in 1899.
