Sekondi, July 30, GNA - The Reverend Father Jacob Augustine Welbourne, former Dean of the Cathedral Church of Saint Andrew the Apostle Anglican Church and four others who were cited for contempt of court were last Friday released from prison.

The five who were all clad in white attires, attended a thanksgiving service organised in their honour at the forecourt of the Shama Ahanta East Metropolitan Assembly (SAEMA) about 50 metres from the Cathedral. Daniel Assafuah, Emmanuel Papa Assan, Augustus Quaye and Kofi Abbey- Hart, who were also jailed with Rev. Welbourne, joined the over 200 congregation in dancing and waved white handkerchiefs in appreciation to God.

The service, which was organised by supporters and sympathisers of the five was conducted by the Reverend Provost Joseph O. Quaye and assisted by the Reverend Kobina A. Tawiah Eshun. Preaching on the theme, "faith" Father Tawiah Eshun said Christians had since time immemorial undergone several threats, deprivation, abuse, hunger, imprisonment, neglect and sometimes even death but their persistent faith had made them victorious.

He said without faith, it was impossible to please God and reminded Christians that while praying, they must demonstrate a strong faith, which would enable them to overcome obstacles that could impede their worship.

Rev. Tawiah Eshun said the determination of the five had united the "break away" group and all efforts must be made to sustain the unity. He stressed that faith would be meaningless if not "tried and tested by circumstances".

Rev. Tawiah Eshun said those who sought God should believe that he rewards the just.

"Today is the actual beginning of our journey of faith and the five have set the pace for others to emulate", he added. Rev. Tawiah Eshun charged the congregation to be fearless, courageous and walk by faith, adding, "Followers and Disciples of Christ all had faith and followed him to the end".

At the Cathedral, Rev. Canon Richard Bentil, preaching at a service attended by 38 members said Christians should exhibit their talents for the growth of the Church.

He said the Church could grow if all used their various talents to improve its status.

Rev. Bentil advised them not to allow the past to hunt them but rather pray for the 'breakaway group".

He said Christ never discriminated against his followers and all efforts must be done to unite the factions.