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A Journey Back to Roots: A Christmas to Remember

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I promised myself that when I visit Ghana, I will attend church service with our oldest family friends in Chicago, Mr. and Mrs. Agyeman. And that was what I did. I went with the newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Hadzide (Selassie and Diane). Since I traveled to the USA over 33 years ago, I have never attended church when I visit Ghana. There was always so much to do within a short time—visiting family and friends, sightseeing, and making trips to old school grounds.

This time, it was different.

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I found myself celebrating the Christmas Service at the Parakuo Presbyterian Church of Ghana – Abokobi district. The church stood like a beacon of tradition and faith, its walls echoing with stories of generations past. The air was thick with the scent of fresh pine and joyous anticipation.

As I entered the church, I was honored to witness the dedication of children and the blessings for the younger adults in the congregation. It was a beautiful sight—young lives being consecrated and the hopes of a new generation being nurtured under the watchful eyes of their elders.

The guest preacher, a man with a voice as warm and resonant as the morning sun, began by thanking God for keeping us from January to this day, December 25th. “His birth is special to us,” he proclaimed, “He came to fulfill the gospel. He is our Redeemer. He is our Healer. He is the provider of hope.”

His words carried a weight that resonated deeply within the hearts of everyone present. We were reminded of the miracle of the season, the profound love and sacrifice that Christmas symbolized.

During the songs and ministration time, the atmosphere transformed. We were spirit-filled with hymns like “Asem Papa Bia Ma Ti Oye” (which translates to “The Good News I Heard is Good”), Afe akɔ aprɔ, “Christ the Saviour is Born and many others.” The choir’s voices soared, intertwining with the melodies of old, filling the sanctuary with a palpable sense of divine presence.

As the service progressed, I felt a profound connection not just to the past, but to a spiritual lineage that transcended time and distance. In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of the congregation and the familiar faces of Mr. and Mrs. Agyeman and Ernest Bugyei, their in-law, I knew I had found a home church in Ghana.

The day ended with heartfelt goodbyes and promises to return. As I stepped out of the church, the African sun at its midday peak was scorching and fierce, but somehow I felt a sense of fulfillment and peace. This Christmas had been different—extraordinary and soul-stirring. It was a journey back to my roots, a reminder of faith, and the joy of rekindling cherished connections.

And as I walked away, I whispered a silent prayer of gratitude for this beautiful, exhilarating experience that I would carry with me always.

Source: Fuvi Kloku

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