By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), Dec 2, GNA-Reverend Joy Dake-Abraham, Pastor of the Hall of Strength Ministry in Ho, has called for renewed commitment to safeguarding the moral, spiritual and emotional well-being of adolescents.
Describing the stage of adolescence as a critical period marked by rapid development, identity formation, and heightened vulnerability.
Rev Dake-Abrahams, was delivering the keynote address at the Bible Society of Ghana (BSG) Volta Regional Chapter’s Presidential Dinner in Ho.
It was organised to raise funds to procure 50,000 Bibles for JHS students across the country.
He said adolescents, defined by the World Health Organization as those aged 10 to 19 years, face unique developmental transitions that shape their values, purpose and lifelong direction.
He noted that adolescence is a period of rapid physiological growth, self-discovery, purpose formation, and the shaping of personal values.
However, these natural transitions are now severely threatened by a rising wave of social, behavioural and spiritual challenges.
Rev Dake-Abrahams identified several pressing issues affecting adolescents, saying many of the challenges are widespread yet hidden from parents, guardians and even religious leaders.
Among the most alarming concerns, he mentioned: Indecent behaviour and moral decline, Examination malpractice, which he described as the “foundation of future corruption”, Cultism, including secret online recruitment of schoolchildren with enticing promises.
Drug abuse and alcoholism, including the use of dangerous substances such as “red” and tramadol, violence and bullying, Cybercrime, with some children as young as 12 years attempting hacking, Sexual exploitation, promiscuity and teenage prostitution.
Exposure to pornography and harmful online content, Spiritual and socio-economic pressures, often concealed from parents.
He said some of these cases involve a well-behaved churchgoing adolescent who, unknown to their parents.
He said such cases demonstrate that “the challenges are real but often hidden.”
He said solving these challenges requires stronger relationships with young people, increased openness, and a deliberate effort to make God’s Word accessible in ways that resonate with today’s digital generation.
Rev Dake-Abrahams recommended using digital platforms to deliver scripture in forms that are interactive, engaging and tailored to young audiences.
Creating authentic, scripture-centered youth communities that integrate wholesome entertainment, mentorship and fellowship, engaging adolescents with honesty, allowing them to ask difficult questions and receive clear, thoughtful, biblical explanations.
Providing inspired role models, both peers and adults, who demonstrate successful, God-centred living, Making scripture easily accessible, not only through print but via social media, digital Bibles and relatable content formats.
He emphasised that Scripture remains a powerful tool for protecting, reforming and grooming the next generation, adding that Ghana’s adolescent population, representing 22 per cent of the national total, must be equipped spiritually to become responsible leaders.
Delivering a historical reflection, Very Rev Dr John Kwesi Addo Jnr, General Secretary of the Bible Society of Ghana, said the organisation’s 60-year journey has been shaped by unwavering commitment to making the Word of God available, accessible and affordable to every Ghanaian.
He recounted the Society’s roots, from early missionary collaborations to its official inauguration on February 19, 1967, which marked the beginning of Ghana’s autonomous leadership in Bible translation and distribution.
Key milestones include Translation and revision of the complete Bible into 11 major Ghanaian languages, the donation of the Bible House in 1965, Establishment of strong ecumenical partnerships across churches, Outreach initiatives such as Next Gen mentorship, Persons with Visual Disability projects, Trauma Healing programmes, and free Bible distribution campaigns.
He said the 60th anniversary serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a renewed call to ensure the Bible remains central in shaping individuals, families and the nation.
The Presidential Dinner brought together members of the Society, clergy, security agencies and other invited guests.
The event was dedicated to raising funds to purchase 50,000 Bibles to be distributed to Junior High Schools and adolescents across Ghana as part of the Bible Society’s youth outreach drive.
Rev Dake-Abrahams and Very Rev Dr Addo Jnr both urged churches, organisations and individuals to support the mission, emphasising that strengthening the moral and spiritual foundation of Ghana’s youth is essential for securing the nation’s future.
GNA
Edited By: Maxwell Awumah/Kenneth Odeng Adade