Ghana Mission Trip Impacts Lives

Story by  LaTasha Hewitt

In late October, several representatives from the Allegheny East Conference (AEC) participated in a Columbia Union Conference mission trip to Ghana, resulting in more than 1,200 decisions for Christ.

The 11-day Bible seminar series titled, “Our Future Foretold,” was held at the Cape Coast Central church in Ghana. Celeste Ryan Blyden, Columbia Union executive secretary and volunteer lay pastor at the Columbia (Md.) Community Center, shared nightly messages to the attendees, with Hope Channel Ghana livestreaming the services.

The union team was comprised of pastors, directors, leaders and professionals who collaborated with local Ghanaian leaders and Bible workers. AEC members provided morning presentations on mental health, communication and goal setting, as well as mini-courses on marriage, self-care, and mental and physical health.

In addition, the team conducted trainings on Women’s Ministries, education and leadership. They also hosted a youth retreat.

Representatives from AEC share how the mission trip impacted their lives:

“The Ghana mission trip was my first trip to Africa, and I fell in love with my fellow brothers and sisters who were most hospitable and loving.” —Cheryl Chavers, a member of the Calvary church in Newport News, Va., who presented on trauma, domestic violence and marriage.

“Ghana added chapters to my life and history that I did not know was missing.”—Micah Chavers, a member of the Calvary church in Newport News, Va., who coordinated music and facilitated leadership training for young leaders.

“When all of God’s children get together, what a time, what a time, what a time!”—Dione Finney, a member of the Columbia (Md.) Community church who presented on self-care, depression and the elderly.

“For me, the Ghana trip meant faith personified; faith over fear, faith over lack, faith over resources, just faith over everything.”—Andre Hewitt, a member of the Germantown church in Philadelphia who presented on domestic violence and visited a local jail.

“What a blessing to be able to experience the beautiful culture of Ghana while witnessing lives being transformed by the Savior’s love. I’m forever changed and grateful.”—LaTasha Hewitt, AEC communication director who presented on communication strategy, social media and marriage.

“My experience in Ghana was amazing and yet humbling as I watched God work through others and me; especially as I was given the opportunity to serve the children and schools as ‘Aunt Renee.’” —Renee Humphreys, AEC associate education superintendent who presented on education and training for local educators.