Doing it Ghana Style

The students from The University of Indianapolis on their 2012 trip coined the phrase “Doing it Ghana style.”  Even though they had a lot of fun with it, the first thing I would say characterizes doing something Ghana style is doing it with a smile.  It is simply unfathomable to me that Ghanaians are such happy people.  Whether the person is cutting grass with a cutlass/machete, selling goods along the road, or just cooking or doing laundry.  Very rarely do you hear a Ghanaian complain about anything, although occasionally you will hear them say something about the government or get into a debate about politics which certainly can be informative and extremely entertaining.  They take their politics seriously.  Another characteristic of Ghana style is their recognition of God in their lives.  He is so real to them and actively involved in the small things of their lives.  Sometimes before a long trip, people here in the United States will pray before leaving.  The Ghanaians normally pray before each trip no matter how short.  The amazing thing is that they, too, pray and thank God for their safe arrival to their destination.  So, if you are doing it Ghana style, you will have a smile on your face and you will be in prayer often—prayers of request as well as thanksgiving.

Blessings,

David Ketchum

Easter Celebration in Ghana

Group of Pastors being ordained

Group Bible Study

Praise time with dancing

Easter in  Ghana is such a special time of year.  The Monday after Easter is actually a national holiday.  The various churches and denominations have large conventions.  For example the Christian Church group in Ghana holds a national convention every two years with people from around the country gathering to celebrate.  They have lots of workshops and training sessions that begin on Friday and continue through Saturday.  Sunday everyone gathers in a large square of canopies.  There is lots and lots of dancing and singing.  The service generally begins around 10am and last until mid afternoon.

In 2004 Enoch Nyador invited me to give the communion meditation at the national convention which was held in Accra that year.  The communion mediation in Ghana is often a mini-sermon, lasting 10 minutes or so.  I was so honored and nervous to have this opportunity to share.  That year approximately 2,000 people were in attendance.  It was really hot.  I had my white shirt, tie and coat on like many of the Ghanaians who were not in traditional dress.  In Ghana there are nearly 50 language groups.  I shared my message in English, but I was translated three more times—Twi, Ewe, and another language from one of the northern tribes.  So, think of the time it takes for just one statement.

Seeing these pictures from the 2013 national convention in Saboba, northern Ghana bring back wonderful memories.

David Ketchum