Pastors in Ghana have been called upon to extend their spiritual influence beyond the pulpit and play a more active role in addressing national issues such as security, morality, and illegal mining.

The call was made by the Central Regional Minister, Mr. Ekow Panyin Eduamoah Okyere, during the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving held in Cape Coast on Tuesday, under the theme “Reflect, Reset, and Renew for National Prosperity.”

The Minister challenged the clergy to take a firm stand against corruption and illegal activities, particularly illegal mining (galamsey), which continues to devastate communities and the environment.

“Churches must not become safe havens for individuals who destroy our lands and rivers through illegal mining,” Mr. Eduamoah Okyere stated.

“Pastors must reject what I call ‘filth money’—funds obtained through illegal or immoral means—and stop accepting them as offertory or seed sowing.”

He further urged religious leaders to refrain from assigning church leadership roles to individuals known to be involved in galamsey, warning that such actions risk encouraging others to pursue ill-gotten wealth to gain favour and influence within the church.

“Rather than reward them, such individuals should be pushed to the back trenches of the church,” he added, stressing the need for moral integrity within religious institutions.

Also speaking at the event was Dr. Bismark Moore, Regional Chairman of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council and Regional Superintendent of Assemblies of God-Ghana, who echoed the call for a moral and national reset.

He emphasised the importance of restoring truth and accountability in governance, noting that public office should be treated as a service, not a status symbol.

Dr. Moore also advocated for a more inclusive economic strategy, urging the government to create jobs beyond major urban centres like Accra and Kumasi and extend development to all corners of the country.

The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving brought together clergy, public officials, and residents of the Central Region to reflect on Ghana’s progress and pray for renewed leadership, unity, and prosperity.