Christmas Offers Moment for Reflection, Stewardship, and Hope: AME Zion Presiding Bishop’s Message

Introduction

As the calendar year draws to a close, the festive season of Christmas brings a unique opportunity for introspection and national renewal. In a poignant message delivered to the nation of Ghana and the global community, the Presiding Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Zion Church, Western West Africa Episcopal District, Rt. Rev. Dr. Hilliard Kwashie Dela Dogbe, has articulated a vision for the holidays that transcends mere celebration. He calls for a profound use of the Christmas season as a time for national reflection, stewardship, and renewed hope as the world prepares to step into 2026.

This message is not merely a seasonal greeting; it is a strategic appeal to the conscience of the citizenry, urging a balance between acknowledging the triumphs of the past year and addressing the challenges that remain. By weaving theological principles with civic responsibility, the Bishop’s address provides a roadmap for navigating the transition from 2025 to the new year with integrity and purpose.

Key Points

Background

The Context of the Message

The message was issued on behalf of the officials and members of the AME Zion Church. It was directed specifically to President John Dramani Mahama and the people of Ghana. The timing is significant, coming at the tail end of 2025, a year described by the Bishop as “remarkably eventful.” This period is traditionally associated with the Christian observance of the Nativity, but in the public sphere, it often doubles as a time for political and economic assessment.

The Status of the AME Zion Church in West Africa

The African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church has a long history in West Africa, particularly in Ghana. As the Presiding Bishop of the Western West Africa Episcopal District, Rt. Rev. Dr. Dogbe holds a position of significant influence. His voice carries weight not only in spiritual matters but also in social and civic discourse. The church has historically been a champion of human rights and education, and this message continues that tradition by addressing governance, resource management, and national character.

Analysis

Reflecting on the Year 2025

In his address, the Presiding Bishop provided a balanced assessment of the year 2025. He acknowledged the positive economic indicators and the strengthening of the local currency, suggesting that the macroeconomic environment is showing signs of resilience. Furthermore, he praised the peaceful transition of political power—a critical benchmark for democratic stability in the region.

However, the analysis was not purely celebratory. The Bishop pointedly addressed the “painful moments” of the year. He referenced the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight officers and a devastating road accident that resulted in the death of 16 youth members of the Saviour Church. These references ground the message in reality, validating the grief experienced by the community while urging the nation not to be defined solely by tragedy.

Theological Framework of Stewardship

At the heart of the message is the concept of stewardship. Theologically, stewardship refers to the responsibility of humans to care for God’s creation. Bishop Dogbe applied this concept to national governance and personal conduct. He asked a critical question: “How have individuals and institutions managed natural resources, talents, and opportunities entrusted to them?”

This inquiry is particularly relevant in the context of Ghana’s natural resources. By linking the birth of Christ to the theme of resource management, the Bishop suggests that the “light” of Christmas should illuminate areas of corruption or mismanagement. It is a call to move away from the “darkness” of exploitation toward a “light” of accountability.

Symbolism of the Christmas Season

The Bishop emphasized that the birth of Christ symbolizes God’s enduring light breaking through darkness. This metaphor serves a dual purpose:

1. Historical Reflection: It reminds the faithful of the historical intervention of the divine.
2. Future Orientation: It serves as an “affirmation of the Christian hope and expectation of divine intervention.”

This framing encourages citizens to avoid despair. Even amidst the challenges of illegal mining (galamsey), economic fluctuations, and tragic accidents, the message asserts that hope is a spiritual discipline necessary for nation-building.

Practical Advice

How to Apply the Bishop’s Message

To translate this high-level message into actionable steps for the average citizen and leader, we can look at the virtues highlighted by Rt. Rev. Dr. Dogbe. Here is a practical guide for embodying these principles as we approach 2026:

1. Embrace Personal Stewardship

Stewardship begins at the individual level. The Bishop’s call to reflect on how we manage “talents and opportunities” suggests a personal audit.

• Financial Integrity: Ensure personal finances are managed with honesty and transparency.
• Environmental Care: Avoid practices that harm the environment, such as improper waste disposal, and support initiatives that protect water bodies.
• Talent Development: Use the holiday season to upskill or learn something new that will contribute to the workforce in 2026.

2. Promote National Unity and Patriotism

The Bishop urged the cultivation of virtues like patriotism and unity. In a polarized political climate, this advice is practical.

• Cross-party Dialogue: Engage in conversations with those of differing political views with respect.
• Community Service: Participate in local initiatives that strengthen community bonds rather than dividing them.

3. Maintain Hope Amidst Challenges

Psychologically, hope is a motivator. The Bishop’s message to “not despair” is a call to resilience.

• Focus on Solutions: Rather than dwelling solely on the negative news cycle, look for areas of progress and growth.
• Civic Engagement: Hold leaders accountable (accountability) while acknowledging their efforts when they get it right.

FAQ

Conclusion

Rt. Rev. Dr. Hilliard Kwashie Dela Dogbe’s Christmas message serves as a vital touchstone for the nation of Ghana as it concludes 2025. It moves beyond the superficiality of holiday greetings to address the deep-seated needs of the society: the need for accountability in stewardship, the need to acknowledge both progress and pain, and the need for a collective hope that fuels nation-building. As the country looks toward 2026, the Bishop’s call to embrace hard work, honesty, and unity provides a moral compass for the year ahead. By viewing the nativity through the lens of civic responsibility, the message offers a blueprint for a prosperous and peaceful future.