The Superintendent Minister of the Methodist Church of Ghana and immediate past Chairman of the Local Council of Churches in Dormaa Ahenkro, Very Rev. Nicholas Afrifa, has attributed the growing disengagement of young people from the church to factors including questionable prophecies, excessive financial demands and practices that undermine trust in religious institutions.
According to Very Rev. Afrifa, some young people are becoming increasingly sceptical of the church because of spiritual claims and prophecies they consider questionable. He said persistent demands for money and financial contributions could also create the perception that some churches are more focused on wealth than addressing the spiritual and social needs of their members.
He warned that such developments could weaken the relationship between the younger generation and the church if they are not addressed.
Very Rev. Afrifa therefore urged church leaders to reassess their approach to ministry and create an environment where young people feel welcomed, valued and listened to.
He also expressed concern about some self-acclaimed prophets who, he alleged, obtain personal information from church members through private conversations and later present the information as divine revelations during church services.
According to him, such practices can mislead congregants and create a false impression of supernatural knowledge, ultimately undermining public confidence in religious institutions.
The Methodist minister cautioned that the misuse of prophecy and deception in the name of God could have serious consequences for the credibility of the church.
He said religious leaders have a responsibility to uphold truth, integrity and responsible preaching in their interactions with congregants, particularly young people who may already be questioning traditional religious institutions.
Very Rev. Afrifa also called on churches to introduce practical programmes that respond to the social and economic challenges confronting the younger generation.
He stressed that the church must make deliberate efforts to restore confidence, address legitimate concerns and ensure that its message remains relevant to the realities and aspirations of young people.
He maintained that rebuilding trust would require religious institutions to demonstrate integrity in their leadership, be transparent in their dealings with members and provide meaningful support beyond spiritual activities.
Story by Faustina Mensah
