Accra, Dec. 16, GNA - The Right Rev. Dr Yaw Frimpong-Manso, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, on Tuesday called on Ghanaians to dedicate themselves to the rule of God to allow peace, justice and righteousness to increase in the country.

"There is something most people do not understand even as they frantically search for peace, progress and prosperity in life: there must be divine-human relationship," he said. Dr. Frimpong-Manso, in a New Year message, said partnership with God was therefore a sure way to peace and success in the individual's life and the nation as a whole. He said Ghana had become an oasis of peace and a beacon of hope to the West African region. "But there is no gainsaying that, we would move faster into our destiny if the acutely polarized society we have will give way to a more liberal one."

Dr. Frimpong-Manso commended Ghanaians for the maturity exemplified during the December 7, elections, saying, "I congratulate the leadership and supporters of all political parties for the determination and love demonstrated for our dear nation". He however cautioned: "Let us pursue our partisan agenda in the framework of national unity to engender peace and tolerance in our country."

Dr. Frimpong-Manso urged Ghanaians to carry the same spirit into the run-off adding, "This is the only handsome package we can give our nation as a New Year's gift."

He reminded the leadership of the country that power was meant for service. "We expect you to provide direction as counsellors, fight corruption, poverty and other evils that impede development. Touching on Christmas, Dr Frimpong-Manso said it should be a time of forgiveness, sharing and giving. It is also a time for peace, love and goodwill among man.

The Moderator said: "I urge you all to take this Christmas and New Year as an opportunity to begin a new page in our lives, reflect on our fortunes and be thankful that God has spared our lives and our country. "It is a time for us to forget the things that divided us in the course of the year and to celebrate the things that bind us together as a community and people." 16 Dec. 08