President John Dramani Mahama joined thousands of Christians at the forecourt of the State House for a solemn national prayer and thanksgiving service aimed at invoking divine guidance and reaffirming Ghana’s collective commitment to peace and progress.
Surrounded by top government officials and an impressive gathering of faith leaders, President Mahama used the occasion to officially designate July 1 as National Prayer and Thanksgiving Day, underscoring Ghana’s enduring culture of religious harmony and spiritual introspection.
The interdenominational service brought together a cross-section of influential clerics from both orthodox and charismatic traditions. Notable among them were Cardinal Peter Appiah-Turkson, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams of Action Chapel, Rev. Isaac Owusu Bempah, Bishop Charles Agyinasare of Perez Chapel, Bishop Dag Heward-Mills of Lighthouse Chapel, Apostle Eric Nyamekye of The Church of Pentecost, and Mrs. Gifty Afenyi-Dadzie of Aglow International.
A medley of gospel music performances added fervor to the occasion, with renowned artistes such as Joe Mettle, the Tagoe Sisters, Jack Alolome, Francis Amo, and Paris lifting the congregation in worship.
In his address, President Mahama credited Ghana’s continued peace and democratic stability to “God’s abiding favour, the resilience of its people, and accountable leadership.” He called on citizens to use the day as a moment of sincere reflection, gratitude, and spiritual renewal.
“This is a time to pause, reflect, and reset,” he said. “As we face economic, social, and moral challenges—from youth unemployment to environmental degradation, we must strengthen not just our institutions but also our collective faith.”
Held under the theme “Reflect, Reset, and Renewal for National Prosperity”, the event resonated with calls for unity of purpose and the power of shared introspection. President Mahama emphasized that national development is not solely built on policies and politics, but also on humility, compassion, and the spiritual will to move forward together.