Kumasi (Ashanti), 3rd May ?99 ?

The Kumasi Council of Churches on Sunday held a non-denominational thanksgiving service for Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, for his successful enstoolment as the 16th Asante King.

The well-attended service was under the theme "spiritual wisdom".

The Right Reverend (Major) Daniel Y. Safo (rtd), Anglican Bishop of Kumasi, in a sermon noted that the challenges ahead of the new Asantehene were daunting and required spiritual wisdom to enable him to succeed.

He observed that Otumfuo Osei Tutu has ascended the Golden Stool with a clear focus to build bridges for unity, social harmony, peace and cohesion among his people, and to promotedevelopment and heal old wounds.

Rt Rev Safo said to achieve these, the Asantehene would need the guidance of God and asked Otumfuo Osei Tutu to keep in constant touch with the Lord through prayers and service.

The Anglican Bishop hoped the Asantehene's reign would see unity among the Asantes and and other ethnic groupings, true national reconciliation and progress as well as the promotion of Asante culture and the attainment of high levels of education among Asantes.

Rt Rev Safo on behalf of christiandom congratulated the Asantehene for his peaceful and successful enstoolment and assured him of the loyalty of the churches.