The Young People’s Guild (YPG) is a dynamic generational group within the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), dedicated to nurturing the spiritual, moral, and social development of young adults aged 18 to 30.
📜 Historical Background
The YPG was established in 1938 by Andrew McCutcheon Atkinson, a Scottish accountant and missionary. Drawing inspiration from the Church of Scotland’s youth movement, Atkinson initiated the first YPG branches in towns such as Odumase, Accra, Nsawam, and Koforidua. By the end of 1938, eight branches had been formed, with a total membership of 90.
The inaugural national delegates’ conference was held from January 6–9, 1938, at Osu Junior Boys School. During this conference, the guild’s constitution was drafted, and the motto “To Know His Will and To Do It” was adopted.
🎯 Mission and Vision
The YPG’s mission is to be Christ-centered, aiming to:
- Promote the spiritual, moral, and social well-being of young people.
- Encourage Bible study and prayer life among members.
- Inculcate the practice of making disciples of all nations.
- Provide a platform for members to discover and develop their talents and potentials.
- Integrate the church with other non-Ghanaian nationals to help spread the gospel globally.
🛠️ Activities and Programs
The YPG engages its members through various activities, including:
- Bible Studies and Prayer Meetings: Regular sessions to deepen spiritual understanding.
- Symposiums and Workshops: Covering topics like career guidance, marriage preparation, and peer pressure.
- Community Service: Encouraging social responsibility and outreach.
- Skill Development: Workshops aimed at equipping members with practical life skills.
- Annual Conventions and Camps: Providing opportunities for intensive spiritual growth and fellowship.
🏛️ Organizational Structure
The YPG operates at multiple levels:
- Congregational Level: Local YPG groups led by elected executives.
- District and Presbytery Levels: Providing oversight and coordination among congregational groups.
- National Level: A coordinating committee established to unify and guide YPG activities across the country.
🌍 Global Presence
The YPG has extended its reach beyond Ghana, with active branches in Europe, North America, and Australia. These international branches aim to:
- Promote the spiritual, moral, and social well-being of young people abroad.
- Encourage Bible study and prayer life among members.
- Inculcate the practice of making disciples of all nations.
- Provide a platform for members to discover and develop their talents and potentials.
- Integrate the church with other non-Ghanaian nationals to help spread the gospel globally.
