Ghana on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, observed its inaugural National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving at the forecourt of the State House in Accra.
The theme for this maiden event was “Reset, Reflect and Renew for National Prosperity,” emphasizing the need for collective introspection and renewal among citizens as they strive for a prosperous future.
The Christian Prayer and Thanksgiving Service began early in the morning and was led by His Eminence Peter Cardinal Appiah Turkson, a prominent figure in both Ghanaian and global religious communities.
This event marked a significant shift, following President John Dramani Mahama’s official declaration earlier this year of July 1st—traditionally known as Republic Day—as Ghana’s National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving.
In his address, President Mahama highlighted the importance of the initiative in fostering the exceptional religious harmony Ghana enjoys. He described the day as an opportunity for national reflection and spiritual rejuvenation, encouraging Ghanaians to reaffirm their commitment to the values that unite them.
President Mahama assessed the current state of national affairs, calling for vigilance against threats that could undermine Ghana’s social cohesion. He emphasized the critical need for peace, compassion, and mutual respect, stating, “We must speak a language of peace, compassion, and mutual respect. We must build bridges, not barriers, for we are one people sharing one land and pursuing one identity and destiny.”
Cardinal Turkson echoed these sentiments, stressing that the transformation of Ghana is not solely the responsibility of political leaders. He urged all citizens to engage actively and participate in the nation’s progress.
The service brought together a diverse assembly of leaders from various faiths and political backgrounds, creating a powerful moment of unity and shared purpose. Among those present were Cardinal Peter Appiah-Turkson; Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, Founder of Action Chapel; Rev. Isaac Owusu Bempah; Mrs. Gifty Afenyi-Dadzie, President of Aglow International; Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, Founder of the Lighthouse Chapel; Bishop Charles Agyinasare, Founder of Perez Chapel; and Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of The Church of Pentecost.
The event was enriched by stirring music and worship led by renowned Ghanaian artists, including Francis Amo, Joe Mettle, Jack Alolome, the Tagoe Sisters, and Perez Musik, whose performances elevated the spiritual atmosphere.
In attendance were distinguished figures including President John Mahama, First Lady Laudina Mahama, Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyeman, Speaker of Parliament Alban Kingsford Bagbin, Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, and various heads of security agencies, HRM ,King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II among others. Their presence contributed to a deeply meaningful and spirit-filled exercise aimed at fostering national unity.
The celebration was set to continue with an Islamic Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at the National Mosque in Kanda, led by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, further demonstrating the nation’s commitment to inclusivity and interfaith dialogue.
Below are some photos from the ceremony
Source : Joseph Odotei
