Former Methodist Bishop, Bosomtwe Ayensu, has weighed in on the ongoing public debate about tithing and welfare support in churches, stressing that faith should uplift believers rather than deepen their struggles.
Speaking in an interview on Dwaso Nsem on Adom FM, the bishop responded to a viral video in which a woman questioned the role of churches in supporting members despite regular tithes and offerings.
According to him, the essence of Christianity is liberation, not hardship.
“Knowing Jesus should liberate you from poverty. We don’t go to church to suffer,” he said. “When you come to Christ, you are set free, and that freedom is not about enduring unnecessary hardship.”
He clarified, however, that while churches are meant to support members, there are structures and systems that guide how such support is offered.
“Every church has its rules and regulations. The church has a responsibility, yes, but it must be done in an orderly way,” he explained.
Right Rev. Ayensu noted that many churches actively support members in times of need, particularly during illness.
“When someone is sick, the church comes together. We visit, we contribute money, we buy items, sometimes even support surgeries. That is how we show care so the person knows the church is there for them,” he said.
He also pointed out that much of what churches do behind the scenes often goes unnoticed, leading to misconceptions.
“There are a lot of things people don’t know, and sometimes pastors don’t make everything public,” he added.
The former bishop further revealed that churches regularly organise meetings to brief members on welfare activities and financial matters, but attendance is often low.
“We hold society meetings where members are informed about what the church is doing, and they can ask questions. But on such days, many people don’t even show up,” he noted.
His comments come amid growing conversations on social media about accountability, transparency, and the welfare role of churches in Ghana.
ALSO READ:
