President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), Rev Prof. Paul Frimpong-Manso, has maintained that the idea of Ghana’s National Cathedral remains alive despite renewed controversy and public debate surrounding the project.
His comments come after the sector minister, during his vetting, stated that he was not opposed to the construction of the cathedral and expressed the view that the project should be completed.
The minister’s position has reignited public discussions about the role of the state in the project, as well as the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s previous opposition to aspects of the initiative while in opposition.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, Rev Prof. Frimpong-Manso said the latest debate should not be interpreted as the death of the National Cathedral project.
“Someone has said that truth buried to the ground will resurrect; that is our Lord Jesus Christ.”
He likened the cathedral to a valuable mineral that must undergo refinement before its true worth can be appreciated.
“So to me, the National Cathedral is like gold. When it is dug from the ground, basically it’s nothing, or like a diamond. But when it goes through refining processes, which are purification processes, it comes back and shines brighter.”
According to him, the criticism and opposition surrounding the project could provide an opportunity for further discussions and ultimately help improve the initiative.
He said he was encouraged that the conversation about the cathedral had remained active despite the controversy surrounding it.
“So, for me, what has happened is good. I’m glad that the conversation has not ended, and at the end of the day, all Ghanaians will see that all things work together for good to them that love God and those who have been called according to his purpose.”
Rev Prof. Frimpong-Manso also welcomed what he described as support for the project from the current administration, saying it provided an opportunity for the Christian community to remain involved in discussions over its future.
“I think I’m glad that it is back. I’m glad that the current government, with its, you know, its leaders, are all supporting it, and I know through this milling and refining process, through this dialogue, pros and cons, we will get the best out of the situation.”
The GPCC President called for the dialogue surrounding the project to continue, stressing that the controversy should not be seen as the end of the National Cathedral initiative.
“I’m glad that the idea of the cathedral is not dead.”
By: Prince Martey-Sogar.