Donate to our 2010 Lent Appeal

Help us to support people like Elijah this Lent

Our Lent appeal focuses on the story of Elijah Alhassan Yakubu, who is one of many lay workers – known in Ghana as catechists – who have volunteered to support over-stretched parish priests.

Elijah is based in the enormous Diocese of Tamale, Northern Ghana. Many people in the diocese eke out a living as subsistence farmers. Healthcare facilities are scarce and there are few opportunities for education and employment. A further hardship has been widespread flooding, which has become an annual event across the region, destroying farmland. The Anglican Church is responding to these challenges by offering practical help and spiritual hope – but it lacks manpower and resources.

With funding from USPG, Elijah is undergoing vital training that is enabling him to reach out to communities in need. Elijah, 33, a teacher, married with a daughter, explained: ‘I serve as a link between the parishioners and the priest. All catechists are voluntary workers in the vineyard of the Lord. The reward is not in monetary gain, but in the blessings of God, and that makes us happy even though we are poor.’

The Rt Revd Emmanuel Arongo, Bishop of Tamale, said: ‘The catechists are the foot soldiers of the church. We are so proud of them because they offer their lives to Jesus Christ.’

Elijah is an example of how Christians in Ghana, and across the Anglican Communion, are reaching out to their communities. We need to raise £120,000 through our Lent appeal to continue supporting people like Elijah. Your prayers and donations would be very much appreciated.