By Gloria Anderson
A book titled “The Generational Heritage Woman in the Vineyard” exploring themes of identity, spiritual calling, and the influence of heritage on life, marriage, and ministry, has been officially launched in Accra.
The author, Rev. Dr. Vivian Balasu Addo, explained that the book was inspired by over 27 years of ministry experience and a deep commitment to helping readers discover their divine purpose. She emphasized that the work is designed to empower women to rise above societal limitations and understand that “God is beyond gender,” encouraging them to make themselves available for God’s assignment.
The 140-page book also addresses the importance of parenting, highlighting the role of children in honouring God, while cautioning against a growing trend of sidelining the Creator. Rev. Dr. Addo stressed that a successful life requires walking with God, who provides wisdom to navigate life’s challenges.
“One day it occurred to me that the experiences I’ve gained over nearly 27 years in ministry were worth sharing. I realised it was important to write a book that would help people understand the nature of God and recognise that their existence on earth is not in vain they are here for a special purpose. Where we come from also matters, because it shapes our growth, our entry into marriage, and even our journey in ministry,” she said.
On the topic of marriage, Rev. Dr. Addo warned against the increasing casual attitude toward divorce, reminding readers that marriage is a divine institution. She encouraged couples to seek God’s guidance in choosing a life partner to avoid mismatches.
“Before you enter into marriage, you must pray and seek God’s guidance so you find your true partner. Without the right partner, it becomes like a square peg in a round hole it simply won’t fit. We need to seek the face of God before stepping into marriage,” she noted.
Reflecting on her writing journey, Rev. Dr. Addo admitted that balancing her roles as mother, wife, and pastor made completing the book challenging. Though the idea had been conceived years ago, she committed fully to finishing it this year, determined to see it launched.
Addressing the book’s focus on women, she clarified that it is a “household book,” meant for readers of all ages, leaders, couples, and those in or outside ministry. However, she highlighted women in particular to remind them of their God-given potential:
“I realised that writing this book would help many women understand that God is beyond gender. You should never limit yourself by saying, ‘Because I am a woman, I can’t do this or that.’ When God chooses to use you, it doesn’t matter who you are woman or man, God can use you. What we must do as women is wake up and make ourselves available. However God desires to use us, we must be ready and willing.”
Presenting an overview of the book, Dr. Akunu Agbeti, Head of the Educational Studies Department at the Methodist University of Ghana, described it as a legacy work part spiritual chronicle, part historical archive, and a call to action. He lauded Rev. Dr. Addo as a trailblazer in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Ghana and an advocate for women’s empowerment in ministry and society.
Dr. Agbeti praised the clarity, conviction, and faith evident in the writing, noting its potential to ignite purpose, particularly among young women aspiring to ministry. He also highlighted the influence of family support, emphasizing how the author’s upbringing and parental guidance shaped her journey.
He urged the public to read and share the book, calling it a “beacon of hope” and a resource that will inspire generations. Dr. Agbeti congratulated Rev. Dr. Addo for contributing to conversations on women’s empowerment, leadership, and Christian ministry, encouraging attendees to celebrate both the book and the author’s legacy.
The launch concluded with blessings exchanged between Rev. Dr. Addo and attendees, marking the start of what she hopes will be a transformative journey for readers from all walks of life.
