SUMMARY

Introduction

The Year-End Report of the Southern Ghana Union Conference (SGUC) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church provides an overview of departmental activities and key developments up to the close of Q3 2024. The report aims to inform strategic planning and decision-making within the church.

Secretariat Activities

The Secretariat has focused on tracking church growth, emphasizing key metrics such as baptism rates, member retention, and the effectiveness of outreach programs. The comprehensive analysis highlights successes and areas requiring attention to aid membership growth.

Global Mission and Vivid Faith

The 1000 Adventist Youth Volunteer Program has empowered youth to engage in volunteer service, significantly boosting evangelistic efforts in underserved areas. Volunteers have conducted Bible studies and community service, reinforcing the church's mission.

Ministerial Visit

The Southern Ghana Union hosted the President of the North American Division, which fostered collaborative relationships and inspired church leaders through a shared commitment to evangelism.

Organizational Changes

In response to rising membership, SGUC is undergoing reorganization to form two distinct unions. This aligns administrative functions more closely with local congregations, enhancing pastoral care and evangelistic outreach.

Membership Statistics

SGUC's membership has seen steady growth, with a reported increase from 197,825 in Q3 2023 to 204,272 in Q3 2024. Baptisms have remained a primary focus, alongside retention and outreach efforts.

Baptism Trends

Data shows fluctuations in baptism numbers over the years, with a significant baptism trend from 2015 through 2024. For example, there were 9,578 baptisms in 2023, with 5,886 recorded in Q1-Q3 of 2024.

Workforce and Training

The church employs a diverse workforce, including credentialed ministers and missionaries. There are ongoing training initiatives to strengthen leadership capabilities among church members, particularly for women, who are actively engaged in leadership certification programs.

Adventist Church Management System (ACMS)

The implementation of ACMS aims to streamline membership record-keeping and enhance the efficiency of administrative processes. By October 2024, 90% of SGUC members had been uploaded into the system, aiding future planning and ministry.

Women’s Ministries

Women’s ministries activities featured retreats and empowerment initiatives, such as the International Women’s Day of Prayer, which focused on spiritual growth and community outreach. Leadership certification programs continued to develop women's leadership skills within the church.

Youth Involvement

Programs for youth include involvement in community service and outreach activities, alongside structured training initiatives to enhance entrepreneurial skills. Notable events included the WAD 2023 Camporee, which had significant youth participation and resulted in many baptisms.

Evangelism Efforts

SGUC has continued its commitment to evangelism through various campaigns and outreach programs. New churches have been established as part of the ongoing efforts to expand the Adventist presence in underserved areas such as Yahoman.

Health Initiatives

SGUC's health ministry focuses on empowering churches to serve communities in health-related capacities, including ongoing health screenings and educational programs related to health and wellness.

Financial Overview

The report concludes with an overview of financial indicators reflecting the union's financial health and commitment to supporting the church's mission.

Appreciation

The SGUC expresses gratitude to all members and volunteers contributing to the church's mission and outreach initiatives, emphasizing the collective effort in advancing the gospel.