Kumasi, June 6, GNA - Mr Sampson Kwaku Boafo, Ashanti Regional Minister, has called on Christians to strive to bear what he called "wholesome fruits".

He said the growth of the church was the work of God and urged them to see themselves as privileged people selected to work tirelessly to accomplish God's work on earth.

Mr Boafo was speaking at a service to mark the 20th anniversary of the Reverend Dr Kojo Osei-Wusu as Head Pastor of the Grace Baptist Church, which coincided with his 60th birthday in Kumasi, on Sunday. He commended the congregation for their dedication, commitment and hard work, which had brought the Church to its present stage and stated that human failings and conflicts have had telling effects on its growth.

The Regional Minister noted that in the midst of all the challenges, the Church had kept its vision not to lose touch with mission of Jesus Christ.

"Like the glowing ember that never stops burning, never dampen the fire that was lit 20 years ago", the Regional Minister said. Mr Boafo charged the members to work hard now that the church was being called upon to address societal issues and collaborate with the government to ensure national development.

The Reverend Ernest Adu-Gyamfi of the Charismatic Baptist Church at Taifa in Accra, delivering a sermon, said it was time Ghanaians stopped complaining about economic hardships and embarked on positive ventures to improve on their living standards.

He urged the congregation to have patience and allow Christ to take control of their lives to become successful as Christians. Reading the biography and achievements of Rev Dr Osei-Wusu, the Reverend Yaw Asamoah, Associate Pastor of the Grace Baptist Church, said Dr Osei-Wusu, who is married with three children, taught in various basic and second cycle institutions before entering the Ministry. Rev Asamoah said Rev Osei-Wusu helped to establish 22 out of the 28 existing branches of the Church and helped to run three adult and two intermediate worship services every Sunday. He said under his leadership, proper structures had been put in place to run the Church efficiently.