THE Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, the Most Rev. Prof. Johnson K. Asamoah-Gyadu, has urged the newly inducted 10th Lay President of Conference, Mr Alfred Sakyi, to operate within the constitutional mandate of his office to promote effective collaboration between the clergy and the laity.
He said the position went beyond leading the lay movement, requiring the occupant to understand his responsibilities, respect the distinct roles of the clergy and laity, and work with both groups to advance the mission of the Church.
Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu gave the advice at the induction service of Mr Sakyi in Tema last Saturday, where he delivered a sermon on the theme, “Leading according to Your Grace,” based on Acts 6:3.
He said effective leadership in the Church required integrity, spiritual maturity and wisdom, stressing that leaders must understand their gifts and responsibilities and deploy them appropriately in the service of God.
Explaining the biblical passage, Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu said the apostles had responded to complaints about the neglect of Hellenistic widows in the daily distribution of food by appointing seven men of good standing, filled with the Holy Spirit and wisdom, to address the problem.
He said the apostles had demonstrated effective leadership by responding to complaints with action, underscoring the need for the Church to address the concerns of its members and ensure that no one was neglected.
Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu said the apostles had also recognised the importance of distinguishing between their primary responsibilities and duties that could be delegated to others.
Quoting Acts 6:2, he urged the Lay President to remain focused on his assigned responsibilities, explaining that, just as the apostles prioritised the ministry of the word, leaders must recognise their calling and operate within their mandate.
He said the Church’s constitution provided a framework for guiding its leadership and ensuring that officeholders operated within their respective responsibilities.
Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu cautioned against undertaking religious duties without the requisite training. He said although lay members could assist with the administration of Holy Communion when necessary, such support should not lead ordained ministers to abandon their core responsibilities.
He explained that ministers were trained in the word and sacraments to prepare them for their duties, stressing the importance of respecting their respective callings.
In his response, Mr Sakyi pledged to serve the Church and support its leadership to the best of his ability during his three-year tenure.
He appealed to members to pray for him to enable him to fulfil his responsibilities to the glory of God.
Mr Sakyi expressed appreciation to the congregation and other Church members who attended the induction service, pledging to discharge his duties with all his strength and might.
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