By Rachel Quartey & Rukayatu Musah
Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called on families and communities to confront the persistent challenges facing girls, as the Girls’ Brigade Ghana marked its 70th anniversary with a thanksgiving service in Accra.
Speaking at the Rev. P.K. Dagadu Memorial Methodist Church in Osu, the Vice President praised the Brigade for seven decades of shaping young girls through faith, discipline and service. She noted that leadership, as demonstrated by Christ, demands sacrifice and commitment.
“Every time people say it’s a hard job, I say it’s meant to be hard. The Christ we follow didn’t have it easy,” she said. “A leader serves, and that’s what we’re chosen to do. Serving others brings joy and blessings.”
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang commended the Girls’ Brigade for its long-standing work in schools, communities and hospitals, describing its contribution as a true reflection of service-driven leadership. She also urged parents and guardians to reflect on how their actions sometimes hinder the development of young girls.
“Girls face difficulties with confidence, learning and early marriages. Sometimes as parents, we’re part of the problem,” she stated. “We need to accept our mistakes, learn from them and ensure our girls shine — not just for themselves, but for their communities.”
She concluded her message with a biblical reminder to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God. The Vice President also made a cash donation to support the ongoing work of the Girls’ Brigade.
Delivering the sermon, the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, The Most Rev. Professor Johnson Asamoah-Gyadu, used the Advent season to urge the nation to return to truth, spiritual integrity and selfless national service. He reminded the congregation that the Christian calling goes beyond personal faith and extends to contributing meaningfully to the society and country they belong to.
“Christmas is a season of welcoming the truth into our lives,” he said. “In this Advent season, we must pursue the truth of God in Christ.”
He added that John the Baptist’s life demonstrated courage, honesty and dedication to a mission larger than himself — qualities he said all Ghanaians must embrace in service to the nation.
The Presiding Bishop encouraged citizens to live out values of honesty, empathy and responsibility, emphasising that the country’s progress depends on individuals who serve with integrity and commitment.
The thanksgiving service showcased the Brigade’s colours and traditions, reflecting 70 years of nurturing Ghanaian girls to serve God and humanity. Founded in 1955 by Mrs. Gladys Dagadu, the Girls’ Brigade has since grown nationwide, partnering with Methodist, Presbyterian, Anglican, Evangelical Presbyterian, Global Evangelical, AME Zion, Police and Prisons Interdenominational Churches, as well as charismatic ministries including Perez Chapel International and Jesus Generation Ministries.
Globally, the Girls’ Brigade operates more than 3,800 companies with over 50,000 girls and young women engaged in weekly activities.
The event also featured the induction of National Patrons as part of the anniversary celebration, which was held on the theme, “Rise in Strength, Soar Like an Eagle.”
