Religious Leader Speaks Against Child Abandonment; Calls for Parental Responsibility.

Otiakrom-Shallom: Apostle Dr. Kadmiel Agbalenyo, Founder and Leader of the Seventh Day Theocratical Congregation, has urged parents to be very responsible towards their children and stop child abandonment. Speaking to the Ghana News Agency after a church service in Otiakrom-Shallom, Apostle Dr. Agbalenyo expressed concern over parents forsaking their 'divine parenthood responsibilities' in the face of economic challenges. He highlighted instances where fathers, after abandoning their children due to economic hardship, later attempt to reclaim custody.According to Ghana News Agency, Apostle Dr. Agbalenyo pointed out that some women also deserted their children in pursuit of wealth or new relationships, emphasizing that such actions have no place in society. He stated that widowhood is the only circumstance that should result in single parenthood. The cleric noted that children are often maltreated in various homes because they are seen as burdens and called for a change in attitude by men and women who deser t their children. He emphasized that children were a blessing to humanity and could become a source of strength for families if they were religiously, culturally, and skillfully trained to reflect godly qualities.Apostle Dr. Agbalenyo outlined the importance of proper child upbringing, advocating for a balanced approach to education that combines academic pursuits with practical life skills. He stressed the need for children to be given time to play, engage in family and religious activities, and learn homemaking skills such as cleaning and cooking alongside their academic activities. He warned that divine punishment awaited parents who neglected their responsibilities, stating that such abandonment represents a fundamental disconnect from their Creator.He concluded by urging parents to transform their households into spaces where families could unite and grow together, noting that children trained religiously, domestically, and industriously become economic pillars of their families. Apostle Dr. Agbaleny o emphasized that child abandonment represents a serious breach of both societal and spiritual obligations.