By Paschal Norbert
ACCRA , JUNE 19, 2025 (CISA) -The Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) and the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) in a joint communique, have called on the government and citizens alike to uphold ethical governance, reinforce faith-based contributions to education, and protect family values.
In a message delivered at the conclusion of their annual joint meeting at St. James Catholic Church in Osu-Accra, marked by an ecumenical service for Christian unity and the nation’s wellbeing, addressed wide-ranging national issues, from constitutional reform and education policy to moral values and the controversial National Cathedral project.
Call for National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving
Among the highlights was the proposal to institutionalize July 1 as a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, to be led by religious bodies. The Religious leaders emphasized that churches must play a central role in organizing the event, reflecting the spiritual foundation upon which Ghana was built.
“We wish to propose that the annual event should be led by the Religious Bodies with the Church taking central role in its organization and promotion,” the communique stated, underscoring the role of faith in fostering national unity and gratitude.
Faith Representation in Education Council
In a pointed appeal to the Minister of Education, the Christian leaders urged the reinstatement of religious representation on the Ghana Education Service (GES) Council, describing it as a necessary acknowledgment of the Church’s foundational contributions to education in Ghana.
“This will show good faith, recognizing the historical and moral contribution of faith-based institutions to national education,” the communique read.
The statement also pressed for the swift finalization of the Government-Church partnership on education, an initiative discussed during the 2025 National Catholic Education Forum in Koforidua. The proposed agreement is expected to promote moral and ethical education in schools, a long-held concern of the churches.
Election of Local Government Officials
Turning to governance, the CCG and GCBC reignited the call for the popular election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). They urged the Constitutional Review process to revisit this proposal, arguing that democratic participation at the local level is key to delivering essential services and building trust in governance.
“Local Government is the level of government that is closer to the majority of our people… Local participation and support are critical to the effective performance of local government,” they emphasized.
Support for Family Values Bill
On one of the most debated topics in Ghanaian public life, the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, the leaders reaffirmed their full support. They urged the government to reintroduce the bill through the Attorney General’s office to ensure its passage without legal hindrance, after the previous bill failed to be assented to.
“We kindly affirm our support for the Bill to be government-sponsored… We expect that this bill will be treated under the Certificate of Urgency,” the statement said, signaling the urgency of enacting legislation that reflects Ghana’s moral and cultural values.
Clarity on National Cathedral Project
Regarding the stalled National Cathedral Project, the Religious leaders called for a forensic audit to dispel public doubt and enable informed decisions about its future.
“We request that the forensic audit of the Project be completed promptly to provide clarity and inform prudent decisions regarding the project’s future in the interests of Ghanaians,” the communique read, touching on an issue that has sparked significant national debate over transparency and priorities.
The Religious leaders assured the nation of their continued commitment to public education, spiritual guidance, and justice, without political bias: “We will continue our public education, Christian advocacy and prayers for peace, harmony, and justice in Ghana. In so doing we will continue to be non-partisan and be guided by the principles of the Holy Bible.
