In a world where turmoil and strife often dominate the headlines, finding moments of genuine peace and unity is a precious gift.

The recent Prayer and Thanksgiving Service held at the Evangelical Presbyterian Church Ghana – Shalom Parish Dansoman served as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, unity, and justice in fostering peace and harmony within our beloved nation.

On August 20, 2023, parishioners gathered under the theme of "Peace and Unity for our dear Nation through Faith, Unity and Justice." The words of Parish Priest Rev Magnus Yao Tedoku resonated deeply as he delivered a sermon that emphasised the need for collective efforts to maintain the tranquility and unity we so cherish.

Gratitude for peace amidst troubles

In a region marked by instability and conflict, Ghanaians have every reason to offer gratitude for the relative peace that the nation has enjoyed. Rev Tedoku highlighted the troubles that have plagued West Africa, making Ghana's peace even more significant.

Psalm 133 was underscored as a symbolic representation of Ghana's unity, drawing a parallel with the ancient Jews who found refreshment in the dew during dry seasons. This powerful analogy linked the prosperity of the nation with the unity of its people.

Lessons from history: unity and the dew

Drawing from history, Rev Tedoku highlighted the importance of unity in sustaining a nation. He narrated the story of the Jews, who were once a strong and formidable people with clear succession lines.

However, internal struggles, exacerbated by economic challenges, led to division and eventual foreign intervention. This cautionary tale serves as a reminder that unity and a common purpose are vital for any nation's well-being.

Peace through dialogue and unity

The sermon took a poignant turn as it addressed contemporary issues affecting African nations. Rev Tedoku cautioned against the misconception that coups and upheavals are solutions to societal problems.

Drawing parallels to current events, he invoked the situation in Niger as a warning for Ghana. The message was clear: dialogue, unity, and tranquility are the paths to lasting peace. The impact of external events on local economies, exemplified by the rising price of onions, further reinforced the interconnectedness of African nations.

Religious leaders: ambassadors of peace

Highlighting the role of religious leaders, Rev Tedoku emphasized their power to bring people together and promote peace.

He transcended denominational boundaries, calling upon all religious leaders to unite in spreading messages of love, harmony, and tranquility. The sermon urged leaders to use their platforms responsibly, discouraging sensationalism for the sake of social media attention.

Lessons from Elijah: power, responsibility, and humility

The biblical account of Elijah's clash with the prophets of Baal underscored the dangers of overreaction and misuse of power.

Rev Tedoku cautioned against arrogance and the disregard for God's guidance, drawing a parallel to contemporary situations where leaders and individuals alike need to temper their actions with humility.

Collective prayers for peace and unity

The service wasn't just a sermon; it was a collective call to action. Parishioners joined in prayers, invoking blessings for Ghana, Africa, and the world. The importance of upholding the constitution, respecting institutions, and rejecting partisan politics for the sake of national peace was emphasized.

The role of religious leaders in advocating for good governance and condemning malicious activities was also highlighted.

Musical upliftment and declarations of peace

Throughout the service, musical performances by various choirs and groups added a layer of spiritual connection. The songs resonated with the theme of unity and harmony, contributing to the overall atmosphere of prayer and reflection. Declarations for peace in Ghana, Niger, and Africa added weight to the collective desire for regional stability.

Conclusion: sustaining peace like the dew

In a world that often seeks shortcuts to solutions, the Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at Shalom Parish served as a reminder that lasting peace is cultivated through unity, dialogue, and justice.

Rev Tedoku's sermon was a call to action for Ghanaians to preserve the nation's hard-won peace and unity. By looking to history, he urged us to learn from the mistakes of the past and to build a future grounded in faith, love, and respect for one another. Just as the dew sustains the grass through dry seasons, unity, love, and tranquility will carry us through challenges, ensuring that Ghana's peace remains unshaken.