Kumasi, Jan. 11, GNA - The Methodist Church of Ghana will mark 50 years of its independence from the mother Church in the United Kingdom (UK), this year. It attained autonomy status in 1961, four years after Ghana's political independence.

The Right Revered Osei Safo-Kantanka, Diocesan Bishop of Kumasi, announced this at a special divine service at the Wesley Cathedral in Kumas= i to welcome 21 ministers from the UK who are touring the country. He said the Church cherished the warm and cordial relationship which existed between it and the UK Church.

The Right Rev Safo-Kantanka said, 93We are deepening the relations as we look forward to the day we can send similar ministers to the UK." He said it was a great privilege that the UK ministers had 93come to worship with us and other branches of the church in the spirit of brotherliness." He said it provided an opportunity for them to exchange ideas and solidify the bond of friendship and togetherness which should exist among Christian brothers and sisters. The Rev Ermal Kirby, Chairman of the London District of the Methodist Church, said they were grateful for the generosity extended to them by the Diocese, adding 93This is really incredible." Rev Andrew John Dart, who delivered the sermon called on Christian= s to stand by the faith, reminding them that despite the crisis they went through, God had not forgotten his people.

"Do not place Kings and political systems higher than God," he said= , and called for unity among people and nations. The Rev Dart called on Christians to enter the New Year with hope sayin= g "if Christ is with us who can be against us."

The Rt Rev Safo-Kantanka on behalf of the Kumasi Diocese presented eac= h of the visitors with a kente stole. Prayers were offered for world peace, Ghana, La Cote D'Ivoire and UK.