In July, Joyce, Crystal Martin, and I had the privilege of visiting Ghana, a West African country. Heralds of Hope has partnered with Torch Ministries of Accra for over twenty years. They share the Gospel with junior high school students throughout Ghana and beyond. Dr. Ohene Kumi leads Torch Ministries.
More than 300 schools host a weekly Bible class led by volunteer teachers/chaplains. Some teachers/chaplains participated in the program during their junior high experience. They are now in positions of authority, and their positive experiences have opened doors for expanding the Bible program to new locations.
The lessons are taught in the classroom, but the paperwork is completed at home. This benefits the students and exposes other family members to the lessons. The profound impact of our work is evident as entire families have come to faith in Christ, and several churches have been planted, all as a result of the Bible lessons.
When a student completes a certain number of lessons, they earn a certificate of completion and a free English Bible (English is the official language of Ghana). Heralds of Hope partners with Torch Ministries by supplying many of the Bibles they distribute.
During our time in Ghana, we visited more than 40 schools and delivered more than 75 cases of Bibles, each containing 20 copies. We had the incredible privilege of personally handing out some certificates and Bibles. Seeing the students’ excitement and enthusiasm as they anticipated receiving a Bible was a joy. Their joy was palpable, and it was a heartwarming experience for all of us. A personal highlight was sailing on Lake Volta estuary in a wooden canoe to deliver Bibles to schools in two island communities, a testament to the dedication of Torch Ministries and the lengths to which they go to spread the Gospel.
In Ghana, we had the privilege of engaging with the local communities personally and meaningfully. I had the honor of preaching in a village church Sunday morning. The congregation was a blend of ages, so I was asked to speak through an interpreter. This was for the benefit of the older people who don’t know English very well. I spoke from John 15 on how to be fruitful as a follower of Jesus and was complimented by Pastor Ohene on the practicality of that message in that community. These personal connections made our mission work even more impactful and meaningful.
On the final day of our trip, I led a devotional time for more than 400 junior high school students. Once they quieted down, they were very attentive as I shared the parable of the wealthy farmer and encouraged them to seek the kingdom of God first.
The median age in Ghana is just over 21, so it will be interesting and inspiring to see the impact of the Bible lessons on the country in the decades to come. We hope these lessons will continue to bear fruit and bring positive change to the communities we have visited.
Heralds of Hope is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit
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