Presbyterian Church of Ghana clarifies role of Christians in stool/skin offices
The Presbyterian Church of Ghana has approved a sweeping nine‑point decision at its 26th General Assembly, introducing constitutional amendments, new policy directions, and administrative reforms aimed at strengthening governance and guiding the church’s mission in a changing national and global context. Meeting at the Ramseyer Training Centre, Abetifi–Kwahu, from 12th to 16th August 2026, the…
The Presbyterian Church of Ghana has approved significant changes at its 26th General Assembly, held from August 12-16, 2026. The assembly adopted nine key decisions aimed at strengthening governance, clarifying doctrinal roles, and preparing for digital transformation.
A crucial amendment to Article 25(6) of the PCG Constitution now requires the General Assembly Council (GAC) to meet at least three times a year, with specific dates set for March, April, June, July, and November. The agenda for these meetings will include updates on financial statistics, accounts, presbytery performance, remissions, directors' reports, and other administrative matters.
The assembly also reaffirmed the church's policy on occupational health, security, and safety, emphasizing its commitment to safe working environments. A significant constitutional change concerns Christians serving in roles such as palace, stool, or skin functionaries. Paragraph 18(e) of the Third Schedule now stipulates that Christians must serve only in civil roles and must renounce any involvement in ancestral veneration or worship.
The church will provide guidance and support for such individuals through procedures outlined in the Manual of Order.
To address emerging digital trends, the assembly expanded the ICT Policy to cover guidelines on artificial intelligence and digital transformation, ensuring responsible use of new technologies. The General Assembly also directed that congregations and preaching points must obtain approval from higher church courts before inviting non- Presbyterians to speak at renewal services, reinforcing doctrinal consistency.
The GAC's decisions, as reported by the Clerk, were ratified during the assembly. The financial statement for 2025 was accepted, confirming the church's transparency and accountability. Finally, the assembly left the decision of the next General Assembly's venue to the GAC. These nine decisions represent a major step in enhancing the PCG's governance, doctrinal clarity, administrative efficiency, and readiness for the digital age, as the church prepares for its bicentennial celebration in 2028.
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