Akufo-Addo Honoured as Lay Canon by Anglican Church for Faith and National Service
Anglican Church confers lay canon title on Akufo-Addo
The Anglican Diocese of Koforidua has conferred the honorary title of Lay Canon on former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in recognition of his contributions to national leadership and unwavering commitment to the Anglican faith. The conferment took place during a special Thanksgiving Service held at St. Mark Anglican Church in Kyebi on Sunday.
The event coincided with the 18th Sunday after Trinity and the Feast Day of St. Wilfrid, an important observance in the Anglican liturgical calendar.
The decision to confer the Lay Canon title was made following what the Diocese described as “prayerful consideration” of Mr. Akufo-Addo’s personal faith journey and his service to the nation. A commemorative plaque was also unveiled at the event, in lasting recognition of his role in Ghana’s democratic development and commitment to Christian values.
Rt. Rev. Felix Odei Annancy, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Koforidua, led the ceremony and noted that the honour is not just symbolic, but a call to continued service in both faith and public life.
Lay Canons are typically non-clerical individuals who have shown exemplary dedication to the Church and are granted a role within the Cathedral Chapter. In Ghana, such honours are rarely bestowed and reflect the Church’s deep appreciation of an individual’s contribution.
Several prominent figures attended the thanksgiving ceremony, underscoring the national relevance of the event. Among them were former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and his wife, Hajia Samira Bawumia; Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin; and former Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare.
The congregation also included clergy from across the Eastern Region, traditional leaders, and members of the Anglican community who gathered to celebrate the former president’s achievements and faith.
The service featured worship, scripture readings, and thanksgiving prayers, culminating in the official conferment of the Lay Canon title.
In his response, former President Akufo-Addo expressed sincere appreciation for the honour and acknowledged the role of faith in shaping his public and personal life.
The conferment of the Lay Canon title on former President Akufo-Addo is more than a ceremonial gesture. It serves as a reminder of the enduring role of faith in public life and the value of acknowledging leaders who strive to combine spiritual commitment with national service. As Ghana continues to navigate political and social challenges, such acts of recognition may inspire future leaders to serve with integrity and humility.
He also reflected on the significance of the honour as a reminder of the deep connection between spiritual life and leadership, noting that true service is guided by moral conviction and compassion.
The Church’s honour of a former president sends a powerful message about the intersection of faith, governance, and public life. In a region where leadership is often scrutinised for ethical lapses, symbolic acts like these affirm the values of accountability, humility, and service.
It also highlights the growing role of religious institutions in supporting national development through moral guidance and civic engagement. In Ghana, where over 70% of the population identifies as Christian, the Church plays a significant role in shaping public discourse and community cohesion.
This event adds to a long history of collaboration between Ghanaian political leadership and faith-based organisations, often working together on issues such as education, health, and peacebuilding.
The Anglican Church in Ghana has been involved in several development initiatives, particularly in the education and health sectors. For instance, the Anglican Diocesan Development and Relief Organisation (ADDRO) continues to support rural healthcare delivery and school feeding programmes in underserved communities.
Recognising public figures who support these causes helps to strengthen the Church’s mission and encourage others in leadership to contribute beyond their political mandates.
The conferment of the Lay Canon title on former President Akufo-Addo is more than a ceremonial gesture. It serves as a reminder of the enduring role of faith in public life and the value of acknowledging leaders who strive to combine spiritual commitment with national service. As Ghana continues to navigate political and social challenges, such acts of recognition may inspire future leaders to serve with integrity and humility.
