By Edward Dankwah, GNA
Accra, June 4, GNA – The Committee for the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving has paid a courtesy call on the National Chief Imam to seek his blessing prior to the celebration of the national event.
The committee, comprising members from various Christian and Islamic Denominations and Councils, was also to introduce the members of the planning committee to the National Chief Imam and the Islamic community in recognition of the national event.
The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving is designed to bring together Christians, Muslims and other religious groups together for a common purpose, on the theme: “Reflect, Reset, and Renew for National Prosperity.”
The Christian segment of the programme will be held at the forecourt of the State House from 0800 hours to 1000 hours, followed by Muslim prayers at the National Mosque from 1230 hours to 1400 hours.
Mr Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, the Chairman of the Committee, said the day had spiritual and national significance, adding: “A country does not develop solely by economics or infrastructure, but on the strength of her people.”
The event would not only be held in Accra,but replicated in all 16 regions and 266 districts.
The committee chair said the initiative underscored the President’s recognition of divine guidance in Ghana’s journey, especially at a time when the country continued to enjoy peace and relative stability amid global unrests.
He said there was a reason Ghana remained an oasis of peace, such that each time the nation approached a national election, tensions arose, “yet we consistently emerge stronger as a nation.”
Mr Ankrah touched on the inclusivity of the programme, saying it would welcome people of all faiths and even those without religious affiliations to take a moment of introspection.
“Whether you’re a Christian, Muslim, or you don’t even believe in anything, you have to reflect on why you were born in Ghana and not in Gaza or Sudan. We are here by grace, and that day is about acknowledging that,” he said.
Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, said a meeting of this nature, which brought together followers of different religions to engage in dialogue and mutual consultation, was a foundational reason for which we must be thankful to God.
He said not all nations were blessed with such an opportunity, and moreover, the harmony and peaceful relations that existed among followers of different religions in Ghana was a compelling reason to be thankful to God.
“This is indeed a great blessing that God has bestowed upon us. May Allah continue to strengthen us and open even more doors for such harmony and mutual understanding,” he added.
The National Chief Imam said every citizen had a responsibility to fulfill their civic duties, and that when we fail to meet these obligations, we undermine our national development and are forced to rely on external aid.
“This dependence often comes with conditions that may conflict with our core values and principles,” he stressed.
He said Ghana was grateful for the peace and harmony it enjoyed, adding: “For other nations where such peace is lacking, we pray that Allah restores stability and unity. May national events like this serve as an inspiration to those nations for progress and development.”
He prayed for Allah’s blessings for the President, the Vice-President, his appointees, and the members of the committee to help them in their endeavors, be loyal to the President and support him to pursuing that which brought the best of prosperity to the nation.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade