By: Roberta Modin
The General Superintendent of Assemblies of God Ghana, Dr. Stephen Wengam has argued that Ghana’s Economy will be in shambles if the Church withdraws its services.
Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show on the topic, “Christmas, the Church and National Development”, he stated that the role of the Church in Ghana should not be downplayed adding that the Church engages in massive humanitarian services behind closed doors.
“Assemblies of God Ghana runs about 350 schools, we have a hospital at Nakpanduri, that deprived area and a rehabilitation center in Accra. And we put money into all these things”, as he listed some achievements of the Church.
On the controversial topic of church taxation, the Superintendent, who doubles as the Founder and Leader of the Cedar Mountain Assemblies of God church categorically stated that “it is not right to tax the church.”
“Don’t tax the church. If the members who pay offertory pay tax and you come and tax the church, that is double taxing” he explained.
He also debunked claims that the church is blessed with abundant money and disclosed that 80 per cent of the 6000 churches of Assemblies of God are located in rural areas.
“Our Pastors are suffering, some earn GH$200 a month. They are sacrificing and transforming lives”, according to Rev. Dr. Wengam.
He dared anybody with a contrary view to a debate on the topic.