The Women’s Fellowship of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) is a vibrant and influential ministry dedicated to uniting women in faith, service, and leadership. With roots tracing back to the 19th century, it has played a pivotal role in the spiritual and social development of women within the church and the broader Ghanaian community.
Historical Background
The origins of the Women’s Fellowship can be traced to 1848 when Catherine Mulgrave, an Angolan-born Jamaican missionary, organized the first women’s group in Osu, Accra. This initiative laid the foundation for what would become the Women’s Fellowship, emphasizing Christian education and sisterhood.
In 1943, the Women’s Work Central Committee (WWCC) was established to coordinate women’s activities across the church. This committee was later renamed the Committee on Women’s Ministry (CWM), reflecting its expanded role in overseeing women’s ministries throughout the PCG.
Mission and Activities
The Women’s Fellowship aims to empower women to lead exemplary Christian lives, fostering love and unity within the church and society. Its activities include:
- Spiritual Development: Organizing prayer meetings, Bible studies, and retreats to deepen members’ faith.
- Educational Programs: Conducting workshops on health, home management, and financial literacy.
- Community Service: Engaging in outreach programs to support the needy and promote social welfare.
- Leadership Training: Providing opportunities for women to develop leadership skills within the church and community.
Membership is generally open to women aged 40 and above, though this may vary by congregation.
Organizational Structure
The Women’s Fellowship operates at various levels within the PCG:
- Local Congregations: Individual fellowships that meet regularly for worship, study, and service.
- District and Presbytery Levels: Coordinating bodies that organize larger events and programs.
- National Committee: The Committee on Women’s Ministry oversees the overall direction and policies of the fellowship.
Notable Contributions
The Women’s Fellowship has been instrumental in various initiatives, including the establishment of the Presbyterian Women’s Training Centre (PWTC) at Abokobi in 1992. Founded by Rev. Rose Akua Ampofo, the PWTC serves as a hub for women’s education and empowerment, offering training in leadership, entrepreneurship, and social issues.
