Ghana

The Methodist Church Ghana gained autonomy in 1961. It is recognised as one of the leading Churches in the country and is also the fastest growing Methodist Church in Africa. The Church is committed to effective planning, training and evangelism. Its social engagement is based on a holistic theology and the Church seeks to play a role in the ‘godly governance’ of the country.

As part of its Agenda for Revival, Transformation and Growth (2024) the Church has five key priorities.

1. Evangelism and Discipleship
2. The active exercise of the charismatic gifts and practical life of the church
3. Youth Engagement and Employment
4. Financial Sustainability
5. To create a more caring and compassionate church system that responds to members' welfare needs

History

The Methodist Church Ghana began in 1835 when Joseph Dunwell, sent by the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society, landed in Cape Coast.

His pioneering efforts, despite his untimely death from malaria within six months, laid the foundations for an indigenous Christian community that drew on both African and European endeavours.

Within three months of his death, the community had grown to 50 members, and a girls’ school was established, foretelling the church’s commitment to education and social development.

In 1838, Thomas Freeman (right), of mixed African and English ancestry, took up the mantle. Freeman expanded the church’s reach from Cape Coast to Ashanti into other areas of West Africa, including Nigeria.

His legacy also marks the church’s progressive approach to evangelism, intertwining spiritual ministry with the establishment of schools and social institutions.

The mission later spread to the Volta region during the 1870s, and in 1955, indigenous missionary Paul Adu began work in Northern Ghana.

History: from Bishop of Northern Accra: Article for Bishop Klaiber