Regional News of Sunday, 14 August 2005

Source: GNA

Clergyman advises against destructive criticism

Kumasi, Aug. 14, GNA - A Clergyman has condemned the practice, whereby some group of people and individuals, have assigned themselves the responsibility of criticising any agenda, whether good or bad, being pursued by either the government or leaders of organisations. Right Reverend Dr. Paul Kofi Fynn, Chairman of the Christian Council of Ghana, who made the condemnation, said since such criticisms were normally not backed by alternative suggestions, they become meaningless and of no effect.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Fynn made the condemnation in a sermon delivered at the closing session of the four-day National Lutheran Youth convention in Kumasi on Sunday.

It was attended by youth from all branches of the church in the country and held under the theme "Arise, Shine, For Your Light Has Come, And The Glory Of the Lord Rises Upon You". He said instead of only criticising, people should learn to facilitate the way for seeking solution to the problem being criticised. "Criticism and raw condemnation are counter-productive, if they do not help and encourage the one being criticised to correct his or her mistake", he added.

Dr. Fynn called on churches to demonstrate that they are genuinely symbols of unity, by forging oneness not only amongst their church members but also people of different ethnic backgrounds and religions. A Five-member executive committee for the Lutheran Youth Convention was later inaugurated into office for a three-year term. It has Mr Elvis Doe, as its President.