“Engage responsibly in the electoral process”: Catholics in Ghana Told ahead of December 7 Polls

Ghana’s eligible voters will elect their President and members of Parliament on December 7. The incumbent, President Nana Akufo-Addo, is ineligible to run due to term limits.

In their November 30 pastoral letter, GCBC members recognize that “Ghana is going through a time of transition, both politically and socially.”

“The political climate in our nation is dynamic, and we are aware of the anxieties and uncertainties that often accompany times of electioneering. In these times, it is easy to lose sight of the hope that sustains us as people of faith,” the Catholic Church leaders say.

They add, “As we celebrate Advent, we are reminded that Christ is our ultimate hope, and it is in Him that we find true peace and stability.”

According to the Bishops, the Advent season is an invitation to the people of God to open our hearts to the peace that Christ offers, a peace they say surpasses all understanding. 

“In the midst of political campaigns, tensions, and divisions, we must remember that Christ came into the world to bring peace, reconciliation, and unity,” the Catholic Bishops say.

They continue, “We are called to be instruments of this peace, especially during the electoral process, by promoting dialogue, mutual respect, and the common good.”

In their November 30 pastoral letter, GCBC members reflect on the upcoming Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year.

“The Jubilee Year is a time of grace, restoration, and a call to conversion. It is a time to reflect on God's love and mercy, to heal broken relationships, and to seek reconciliation. This is a year when we are invited to return to God with renewed hearts, to forgive one another, and to build bridges of peace,” Ghana’s Catholic Bishops say.

They add, “Just as Christ brought about the ultimate Jubilee through His life, death, and resurrection, so too are we called to bring the fruits of this Jubilee into our world, particularly in this election year.”

The Catholic Bishops call for prayers during Advent, encouraging the faithful to seek divine guidance for national leaders and to foster unity among citizens. 

“As we enter the Advent season, let us not only prepare our hearts for Christmas but also for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the political life of our country. Let this be a time of prayer, reflection, and action, where we seek God's guidance in our decisions and pray for our leaders that they may be instruments of His peace and justice,” GCBC members say.

They continue, “We call upon all Catholics to intensify their prayer during this Advent season, praying for peace, justice, and reconciliation in our country. Let us pray for our leaders that they may be guided by wisdom, integrity,y and a true desire to serve the people.”

“Let us also pray for all citizens of Ghana that we may be united in our diversity, working together for the common good,” the Catholic Church leaders say.

They underscore the importance of acts of charity, urging all to care for the vulnerable and to reflect Christ’s light in their actions.

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“This is a time to show love and compassion to the poor, the sick, the oppressed, and the marginalized. Let us embody the hope of Christ by bringing light to the dark places of our society,” GCBC members say.

Ghana’s Catholic Bishops go on to urge Catholics to be agents of peace and reconciliation during the elections and beyond.

“In this season of Advent, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, the Prince of Peace, let us remember that He is our hope, both for the Church and for the nation Ghana. Christ is the one who brings light into our darkness, and in Him, we find the strength to face the challenges of our time with courage and faith,” GCBC members say.

They add, “As we enter into this time of political transition, let us be agents of peace, justice, and reconciliation. Let us work together to build a nation where love, unity, and justice reign.

“May the peace of Christ, which the world cannot give, fill our hearts and our homes this Advent season, and may His grace guide us through the coming year,” the Catholic Bishops implore.