Accra: Pastor Gabriel Amoako, outgoing secretary-treasurer of the Upper West Administrative Field Unit (UWAFU) of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church, has urged Christians to eschew bitterness and serve God with full commitment to fulfil their Christian mission. He emphasized that bitterness hampers spiritual growth, while God utilizes individuals who serve faithfully to achieve extraordinary things, highlighting figures such as Abraham, David, and Samson.
According to Ghana News Agency, Pastor Amoako delivered this advice during a sermon themed 'Run Your Race Before You' at a farewell ceremony marking the end of his five-year tenure in the UWAFU and as Wa West District Pastor for Kpaguri SDA Church. He encouraged attendees to 'fix your eyes on Jesus Christ, so that no matter the challenges, He will be faithful and enable you to run your race to achieve your heavenly crown.' Pastor Amoako stressed the importance of total commitment, patience, and endurance, urging the congregation to discard bitterness and learn to forgive one another.
Pastor Whaley Asonre Aboungo, UWAFU Director, advised Pastor Amoako to remain steadfast and rely on God's strength amid challenges. He noted, 'Your appointment to Asante South reflects your faithfulness, integrity and dedicated service. While we will miss you, we rejoice for this higher calling.' Mrs Rose Waahu, UWAFU Women's Ministry Director, praised Pastor Amoako's wife for her love, honesty, and care for all, and described Pastor Amoako as honest in finance and one of the Unit's best secretaries-treasurers.
Church members commended Pastor Amoako as a perfectionist and dedicated leader whose sacrifices strengthened the Unit's finances and overall growth. His transfer to the Asante South Ghana Conference in the Bekwai District comes after serving five years in the North Central Ghana Union Conference (NCGUC) and UWAFU.
In a citation, the Church recognized him for integrity, diligence, sound financial stewardship, strengthening administrative systems, and contributing significantly to the Unit's stability and growth. Pastor Amoako expressed heartfelt gratitude to Church leadership and members for honouring him and his family.