Posts in category: Top Stories

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The vision to possess the nations by The Church of Pentecost, also known as Vision 2023, hinges on a three-pronged approach: equipping the church, strengthening and realigning church institutions and structures, and transforming societies. The third strategy of transforming societies led to the organization of the National Development Conference, a historic event that brought together the influencers of society to deliberate and reflect on the moral vision of our nation – Ghana – and its implications for National Development. The conference concluded with the issuance of a communiqué and a pledge from the various stakeholders to drive action for the implementation of the issues raised at the conference.

Following the conference, I have been engaged in deep thought about what could be done to revamp the moral fiber of our nation in light of the many challenges that confront us.

This thinking was further deepened when I was privileged to join the PENSA International Conference in Kigali, Rwanda over the weekend. This article, therefore, attempts to make a reflective contribution to the discourse of morality and national development, drawing from the Rwandan model and offering some lessons for our country – Ghana.

2.0 RWANDA

Rwanda is a landlocked country in Central Africa bordered by Uganda, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. With an estimated population of 14 million, Rwanda has striven to rebuild its economy, with coffee and tea production among its main exports. Economic development has helped reduce poverty and inequality. The country is headed by Paul Kagame, who has ruled the country since 1994.

3.0 THE C-5 RWANDAN MODEL – MY PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS

The C-5 Rwandan Model is a personally developed model of what I believe has shaped the thinking and outlook of the Rwandan people. This model was constructed based on my personal observations, narratives from the indigenes, and informal interactions I had with some foreigners in the country. The C-5 Rwandan Model stands on five (5) main pillars, namely Courageous Leadership, Compliance, Courtesy, Comportment, and Compassion. In this article, however, I will focus on Courageous Leadership and Compliance and deal with the other three in the subsequent piece.

3.1 COURAGEOUS LEADERSHIP

Interactions with the local people and based on my personal readings showed that the Rwanda I came to see is not the Rwanda which had always existed. This New Rwanda is a result of what I call Courageous Leadership. Coming from the devastating effects of colonialism, which started with the Germans, French, and eventually the Belgians, Rwanda was already parading on the road of disarray until the Genocide more than 30 years ago became the last straw that broke the camel’s back – indeed, a visit to the genocide museum in Kigali leaves one awe-struck and heartbroken by the devastating effects of war. The inhuman, barbaric, and wicked acts meted out by fellow human beings to their fellow human beings are not something we should even think, imagine, or dream – let alone attempt to execute. No wonder the exit gate of the upper room of the museum boldly captures the phrase – NEVER AGAIN!

Now, based on this dark history of the Rwandan people coupled with the traumatic effects of both actors and victims of the genocide, the Rwandan people needed someone who could serve as a catalyst to trigger the desired change, calm nerves, offer reconciliation and justice, while breathing a new life of hope for the people, and they found it in the man – Paul Kagame. The man Paul Kagame took over the helm of power for the last 20 years and has shown that indeed everything rises and falls on leadership.

In 1998, an article in the New York Times described Paul Kagame as a Spartan, stoic, analytical, and austere leader who routinely stays up until 2 am to thumb through back issues of The Economist or study progress reports from red-dirt villages across his country, constantly searching for better, more efficient ways to stretch the billion dollars his government gets each year from donor nations that hold him up as a shining example of what aid money can do in Africa. The Clinton Global Initiative honored him with a Global Citizen award, and Bill Clinton is reported to have said that President Kagame “freed the heart and mind of his people.”

No wonder it was refreshing hearing our Uber driver from the airport, Yvonne, proudly speak about her president with so much love in her tone, affection in her words, and the broad smile she wore spoke so much volumes. Yvonne retorted, “Paul Kagame is not our president, but he is our FATHER, and we are all his children.” Then she made a request – “Pastor, please when you pray, ask God to give our father – Paul Kagame, long life and strength to take care of us.”

Now that really touched me, particularly hearing that from my fellow African, and contrasting it with what pertains here in Ghana, where even secondary school students have the effrontery to use bad language against the president and video record it because they had gone to write an examination and struggled. The National Head of our Church in Rwanda affirmed, as I narrated my experience with Yvonne to him, by stating that – “Yes pastor, the people really love their president.”

Now if you visit Rwanda and witness the spate of development, including the infrastructure, systems, policies, technological advancement, and the many ongoing projects, one does not need any more argument to come to the conclusion that this is the evidence of good and great leadership. By this, I am not implying that there may not be challenges with the leadership style of the president, but the writings on the wall are clear and visible enough for one to make a justifiable conclusion that indeed leadership is cause, and everything else is effect.

3.2 COMPLIANCE

A striking observation I made in Rwanda was the wearing of helmets by all motor riders. Now that is not an exaggeration being made here because I never saw any motor rider nor his passenger on board without a helmet. Now, my inquiry revealed that motor riding was the cheapest means of transport; hence one can infer that it was the common means of employment for the grassroots in society, and yet I watched with sheer delight at the level of compliance by all these motorists. To the extent that there wasn’t a single motor rider without a helmet.

Again, while driving to our hotel, I observed that the Uber driver kept checking the speedometer and, in explaining why she kept doing so, she said that there are cameras along the road that capture over speeding vehicles, and culprits are spot-fined. Hence, one cannot drive above the approved speed threshold within the defined mileage.

Talking about roads, it is also exciting to tell that all major roads in Rwanda are first-class with the approved markings and very neat. In fact, if indeed cleanliness is next to godliness, then Rwanda is godly.

The understanding is that plastics are banned in Rwanda. Also, systems are in place for the local people to continually sweep, clean, and repaint the markings on the road, so the roads are so clean and the street lights are working without any defects. Policies are in place for every indigene and resident to clean their localities once every month, and during such times, no one opens his or her business. There is this sense of a call to duty, and every Rwandese and other inhabitants comply to the latter. Our host intimated, “here rules work, and no one is above the law,” and Yvonne, the Uber driver, shared the story of how one of the government ministers was severely punished for drunk driving, even leading to his subsequent resignation.

Indeed, the compliance to rules in Rwanda is a beautiful sight to behold. I watched how drivers would stop at zebra crossings for other road users to cross, how motor riders would not carelessly drive through a red light in traffic, and the strict adherence to road regulations. No wonder, I hardly heard the sounding of car horns on the roads because all the road users are disciplined and comply fully – schooled and unschooled alike.

4.0 CONCLUSION

As I kept reflecting on what I had seen in the last few days in Rwanda, the questions that come to mind are: What are they doing right? What kind of value system and orientation have the Rwandese been exposed to? Where comes this sense of pride in their country? Is it that Rwanda is without problems? No, they have, like any society does – at least I saw beggars at the business centre harassing tourists, there are mosquitoes on the land, bits and pieces of pilfering, and petty thefts, which I believe are products of our depraved nature as human beings. But beyond that, one cannot belabour the point that Rwanda is strategic and has a plan that is taking them somewhere. It can safely be argued that with the structures and systems being built by the managers of this country, it would not be far-fetched to conclude that not too far from now, Rwanda would be the Africa Hub for growth and advancement, and a perfect template for morality that drives development.

Written by Pastor Kwasi Asante Annor (General Manager, PENT TV)

Scripture Reference: Hosea 6:1

It is time to return to the Lord, for He will surely pardon us. We have wandered in our ways for too long. Our best ideas, skillful people, intellectuals, and those we trusted to save the situation couldn’t meet expectations. We tried to survive on our own, but all our efforts were in vain.

In our hearts and daily confessions, we claimed we did not need God and tried to make it on our own. However, like a stubborn child who always saddens their parents, we, as a people, have done the same.

The time has come to let go of our pride and run back to God. It’s not the time to blame each other, as the harm has already been done. Holding onto ideologies and party cultures that have failed over the years won’t help either. It’s not about which party or church denomination we support. It is not about religion or its origin. We must break down the walls of hostility that have divided us. It’s time to have a national focus, unite ourselves, engage in a national dialogue, and commit to following one direction with God at the centre. This will bring the transformation we seek.

The recently-held National Development Conference, spearheaded by The Church of Pentecost under the theme “Moral Vision and Development,” should be considered with keen interest, not indifference.

Sometimes, in life, someone must lead the way, regardless of their years of existence or academic credentials. It’s about having God and allowing ourselves to be led by Him, for the Lord is the giver of all wisdom and knowledge.

Ghana’s potential to be a beacon of hope in Africa relies on us, the current generation. Just as Prophet Hosea admonished the Israelites in Hosea 6:1, “Come, and let us return to the LORD; For He has torn, but He will heal us; He has stricken, but He will bind us up.”

Let us return to the Lord, and He will surely heal our land. Though we may be cast down, we are not destroyed. Ghana will work again, but with God at the centre.

Written by P/Overseer Seth Frimpong

I have seen people try to rubbish the idea of the establishment of a National Morality and Integrity Council; however, I think it is something worth discussing.

The current state of politics in our land is bereft of morality and integrity. I’ve heard arguments about the existence of CHRAJ, the Office of the Special Prosecutor, EOCO, et al., but let’s be truthful to ourselves: how have these established bodies really advanced anything regarding morality and enforced the same?

Again, I have read arguments about the Church in Ghana being complicit on issues of morality and integrity. Granted that the church in Ghana is complicit, is it far from right if the church decides that, “okay, let’s start making amends and start righting the wrongs from somewhere?”

It is important to establish that the Church is the custodian of Morality, and the Bible is the standard for morality. As a Christian, this is my belief.

It is on this basis that I believe the Church in Ghana should lead such a discussion on morality and integrity.

Personally, I think this agenda should be a non-denominational one. That is why I was excited about Apostle Eric Nyamekye’s point that all flags should be subservient to the Ghana flag.

Similarly, this agenda on morality and integrity should be subservient to any one denomination’s vision and agenda, and it is heartwarming that we saw this quite clearly at the opening session of the recently-held National Development Conference 2023 (NADEC’23), with Muslim clerics and other denominational Heads not only present but also equally sharing the platform of The Church of Pentecost in advancing their thoughts on how this can be achieved.

From every speaker, right from the Vice President, H. E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to the former president, H. E. John Dramani Mahama, to the Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Alban Kingsford Bagbin, to the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, to the former President, H. E. John Agyekum Kufour, they all admitted there is a problem and a disconnect between governance and morality, and this is the reason a discussion beyond such a great event is crucially important.

Let me give you one reason why it is important for us to sustain this discussion and have it worked out.

There is a certain “proposition” in politics called “girls for votes.” I don’t want to call it a theory because I’m not so sure it’s grounded in empiricism. By this analogy, the known and influential men in politics, once they have multiple “girlfriends and squeezes and sharps,” these ladies will invariably bring in votes from their friends and families. And anyone tells me there’s not a breakdown in morality which is crucial for Ghana to urgently conduct a surgical procedure and administer some moral pills? Food for thought!

One last thing I think we need to consider while addressing the issue of governance and morality and integrity and corruption is the issue of Political party funding. It’s one major factor and enabler of corruption in the land.

We will continue the discussion some other day.

Blessings!

Written by Pastor Emmanuel Kyei Boate (#SofoQB)

INTRODUCTION

The evolution of photography from the monochromatic era of the pin-hole cameras in the 5^th Century to the more sophisticated James Webb telescope equipped with cameras capable of capturing coloured images that are 13.6 billion light years away from Earth is mind-boggling. Undoubtedly, photography has not only evolved in technology but has increased its relevance in our lives. The ever-evolving world of social media continues to amplify the inevitable role of photography in capturing moments, freezing time, and sharing stories with a global audience. That notwithstanding, one cannot ignore the dominance of damaging and needless sensational and provocative content online due to the powerful union of photography and social media. Consequently, it is now more critical than ever for Christian photographers to focus our lenses on telling stories of decency, portraying the beauty of God’s creation, and honouring Him through our graceful works of art. By responsibly utilizing our skills and platforms, photographers can showcase a perspective that inspires, uplifts and glorifies God.

BIBLICAL FOUNDATION

In the Bible, numerous references highlight the importance of purity, integrity, and glorifying God through our actions. Philippians 4:8 says: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.” This verse provides a guiding principle for photographers to focus their lens on stories embodying decency, beauty, and honouring God.

EMBRACING A HIGHER CALLING

As photographers, we are blessed with a unique gift: the ability to capture the world through our lenses. In Genesis 1:27, we read that humankind is made in the image of God. By acknowledging and embracing this divine connection, we understand the importance of reflecting God’s character in our work. Our focus should be on capturing the beauty, harmony, and dignity that God instilled in His creation rather than exploiting it for worldly gains.

THE POWER OF PERSPECTIVE

The Bible reminds us of the significance of perspective in shaping our actions and impacting others. In Matthew 6:22-23, Jesus says, “The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light.” Similarly, as photographers, our lens becomes the “eye” through which we view the world. By focusing our lens on decency and righteousness, we can illuminate the beauty and goodness around us.

STORIES OF DECENCY AND MODESTY

In a culture that often glorifies immodesty and objectification, photographers have an opportunity to promote decency and modesty through our art. The Bible reminds us in 1 Timothy 2:9-10 that “women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control.” By selecting subjects, compositions, and themes that honour these values, photographers can counter the prevailing narrative and encourage viewers to appreciate the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

THE PHOTOGRAPHER’S DILEMMA

The photographer’s dilemma arises when societal pressures clash with the desire to remain faithful to God’s principles. However, this dilemma can also serve as an opportunity for growth and spiritual development. In Romans 12:2, believers are urged to “not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” By embracing this transformation, photographers can find innovative ways to tell engaging stories that align with our faith.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND ITS TEMPTATIONS

Social media platforms have revolutionized the way we share and consume visual content. However, they also present numerous challenges for photographers seeking to uphold moral standards. Pursuing popularity and instant gratification can tempt photographers to cater to the demands of an audience hungry for sensationalism. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard of righteousness.

SOCIAL MEDIA REACTIONS AND RESPONSIVENESS

The advent of social media has given photographers a vast platform to share their work. However, it also presents challenges, as reactions can be swift, unpredictable, and sometimes filled with negativity. As followers of Christ, it is crucial to navigate this digital landscape with grace, responding to criticism and praise alike in a manner that honours God. Proverbs 15:1 reminds us that “a gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Photographers can create a positive impact and initiate meaningful conversations through humble and respectful engagement.

THE POWER OF STORYTELLING

Photography is a powerful storytelling medium, capable of evoking emotions, challenging perspectives, and capturing the essence of a moment. By leveraging this power, photographers can weave narratives that reflect God’s love, grace, and redemption. Whether through portraits that capture the resilience of the human spirit or landscapes that reveal the grandeur of God’s creation, our lens can become a tool for communicating the beauty and hope in a relationship with Him.

THE CLASH OF VALUES

When clients present sexually explicit attire for their photography sessions, Christian photographers face a profound clash of values. We are mostly torn between the desire to serve the client professionally and the commitment to our faith. Engaging in a creative process involving explicit clothing may compromise our moral compass and contradict our spiritual convictions.

DECEPTIVE DIGITAL SCULPTING

Deceptive digital sculpting refers to digitally altering or manipulating photographs to change the subject’s appearance, often to an unrealistic or idealised extent. It involves using various software tools to enhance or modify features, such as slimming bodies, altering facial proportions, or adding or removing elements from the image. This technique can be used to create images that present an idealised version of reality, which may not accurately represent the original subject or the scene captured by the camera.

LET’S EXPLORE SOME RELEVANT BIBLICAL PASSAGES THAT RELATE TO DECEPTIVE DIGITAL SCULPTING.

1. Proverbs 31:30: “Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” This verse reminds us that external appearance can be misleading and that true worth lies in one’s character and reverence for God. Altering photographs to enhance physical features can perpetuate a superficial focus on appearance rather than nurturing inner virtues.
2. Psalm 139:14: “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful; I know that full well.” God has fearfully and wonderfully designed each individual, and altering one’s appearance through digital sculpting can undermine the appreciation of our unique and natural beauty. It is essential to embrace and celebrate our authentic selves rather than strive for an unattainable ideal image.
3.  Matthew 23:27-28: “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside, you appear to people as righteous, but on the inside, you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.” This passage highlights the danger of presenting a false image of oneself. The temptation to portray an idealized version of our lives on social media can lead to a stark contrast between online personas and reality. This discrepancy can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and discontent among individuals comparing themselves to curated online identities.

The negative outcomes of engaging in digital sculpting and the deceptive nature of social media include:

1. Unrealistic beauty standards: Digitally altering photographs to conform to societal expectations can perpetuate unrealistic beauty standards, leading to dissatisfaction and low self-esteem for those who strive to meet these unattainable ideals.
2. Self-comparison and insecurity: social media often showcases curated and enhanced versions of people’s lives, creating a breeding ground for comparison and feelings of inadequacy. Seeing others seemingly perfect online can lead to increased self-doubt and insecurity.
3. Disconnection from reality: The stark contrast between online portrayals and real-life experiences can create a disconnection from reality. This can negatively impact mental well-being and lead to a distorted perception of oneself and others.
4. Lack of authenticity: Individuals may sacrifice authenticity and genuine connections with others by relying on digital sculpting and presenting a curated online image. Building relationships based on honesty and transparency becomes challenging when people strive to project an idealised version of themselves.

WHAT DO WE DO? – “RELATING TO SOME PERSONAL EXPERIENCE”

In the dynamic world of photography, professionals often encounter diverse requests and challenges that test our personal boundaries and beliefs. Every photographer cherishes the trust and collaboration shared with clients. However, sometimes requests can cross personal boundaries. As a photographer, I encounter clients who seek provocative or sexually explicit pictures, while others even go as far as requesting a complete alteration and sculpting of body parts in images taken. Remaining faithful to my principles, I respectfully decline such requests. Such instances led me to incorporate an explicit clause in my contracts, stating the refusal to capture sexually inappropriate images or sculpting images taken to suit any purpose. Establishing this boundary allowed me to maintain strict values while providing a professional service. I think colleague photographers can replicate the same.

THE IMPACT OF NEGATIVE MODERNITY ON WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY AND THE WAY FORWARD

Wedding photography is a significant part of many photographers’ careers. However, changing fashion trends have presented new challenges for Christian photographers. It is enough to mention that today’s wedding gown is enough to cover the ground but not enough to cover the breast and back. When brides and maidens choose sexually explicit dresses for their weddings, it can compromise the sanctity of the occasion. The focus shifts from the celebration of love and commitment to the sensual or provocative nature of the attire. Such choices may lead to distractions, temptations, and conflicts among attendees, detracting from the purpose of the ceremony. Consequently, many Christian photographers, including myself, have become selective in accepting wedding bookings, ensuring that the values we hold dear align with the client’s preferences.

In Matthew 5:28, Jesus teaches about the importance of guarding our hearts and minds, saying, “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Applying this principle to wedding attire, it becomes evident that sexually explicit dresses can potentially foster lustful thoughts and temptations in the minds of others.

INCULCATING OPEN COMMUNICATION INTO CLIENTS’ ENGAGEMENTS

Maintaining a successful photography business as a Christian requires open communication with clients. Photographers can create an environment of mutual understanding and respect by discussing expectations, preferences, and values upfront. Establishing this rapport helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures both parties are comfortable and satisfied with the final outcome. It also allows photographers to express their artistic style within the bounds of their faith.

NAVIGATING A CHANGING INDUSTRY

As the photography industry evolves, photographers face the challenge of balancing artistic freedom with personal beliefs. While it may require turning down certain opportunities, it is essential to remember that adhering to one’s faith does not diminish the value of one’s work. In fact, the ability to uphold personal convictions while still providing exceptional services can become a defining strength for Christian photographers. It is important to admit that striving to maintain Christian values within one’s work can be challenging and rewarding. Upholding personal boundaries and communicating openly with clients are vital in navigating diverse requests. By remaining steadfast in our faith, photographers can find fulfilment in our work, create meaningful connections with clients, and contribute positively to an ever-changing industry.

PURSUING EXCELLENCE

Lastly, as photographers striving to glorify God, we must constantly pursue excellence in our craft. Colossians 3:23 states, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Investing time, effort, and passion into our photography demonstrates our commitment to presenting our best work as an offering to God. Through continuous learning, refining our skills, and pushing creative boundaries, we can inspire others and bring honour to His name.

CONCLUSION

In a world increasingly consumed by self-indulgence, photographers who intentionally focus their lens on decency, modesty, and the glory of God can make a profound impact. By utilizing social media responsibly, telling stories that uplift and inspire, and pursuing excellence in our craft, we can change the narrative and remind others of the divine beauty surrounding us. Let us strive to be photographers whose work reflects God’s love, points to His grace, and invites others to see the world through a lens of hope and decency.

Written by Benjamin Mwinbeogre Zii  (Photographic Officer – The Church of Pentecost)