Accra: Mr. Moses Fordjour, an elder of the Prince of Peace Seventh-Day Adventists Church in Gbawe, has called on Christians to use respectful and empowering language when addressing persons with disabilities. He emphasized the power of words, as highlighted in the Bible, and urged church members to avoid derogatory terms, fostering a culture of welcome and respect within the church community.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Fordjour made this appeal during a sermon at an event celebrating the Adventist Possibility Ministries Day. The event was themed “Opening the Doors of the Church to Persons with Disabilities in the Communities.” He stated that it is the responsibility of Christians to identify, empower, and include persons with disabilities, rather than allowing them to remain isolated. He encouraged proactive outreach to share the gospel with persons with disabilities.
Using the biblical story of Mephibosheth, Mr. Fordjour highlighted that despite Mephibosheth’s disability and rejection, he was honored and restored by King David, reflecting God’s grace and kindness. He reminded the church of its duty to restore dignity, address barriers, and create opportunities for participation for persons with disabilities.
Mr. Fordjour also referenced scripture from John chapter 9, verses 1 to 3, to reiterate that disability is not a curse or punishment but an opportunity for God’s work to be revealed. The special guest of honor, Ms. Sylvia Peprah, who has a dual sensory impairment, shared her life experiences and challenged the church to deepen its commitment to inclusion. She commended the Seventh-day Adventist Church for the Possibility Ministries program and encouraged ongoing efforts to create welcoming and empowering spaces for persons with disabilities.
Pastor Moses Kenu, Head Pastor of the Prince of Peace SDA Church, offered prayers for the disability community, seeking blessings for their strength, inclusion, and empowerment. The Adventist Possibility Ministries Day is celebrated annually by the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church to highlight its role in promoting the gospel among members of the disability community and affirming their place within the church.
