Tag: christianity

Religion and a Higher Power in Ghana

September 22, 2017

I’ve seen in some rankings and lists that Ghana is often among the most religious countries in the world. Living here, it’s not that difficult to believe. Many shop names mention God or Allah or reference a Bible passage. One of the first questions I get asked when I meet new people is often, “What religion are you?” And on Sunday mornings, life slows down considerably and the air is filled with the singing and preaching from the dozens of churches. Religious beliefs are very much a part of life here, and there’s an interesting break-down.

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the sign for a shop called god's will enterprise in front of a sunset

Only By God’s Grace in Ghana

January 20, 2017

By His grace.

This is my response to any number of requests or statements ranging from requests for me to take someone to the United States to whether I’ll make it to an event.

By God’s grace.

With that simple little phrase, I’ve shifted from a view that through my own work and effort I can make something happen to the view that I’m at the mercy of fate and God’s will. I don’t even believe in God. But, the people of Ghana sure do. And to be a part of the culture here, I participate in the recitation of a phrase that absolves me of control and accepts that the universe may have its own plans.

By the grace of God.

Businesses often incorporate religion.

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a man in a red military jacked and a woman in a white wedding dress walking down the aisle

Getting Married on Ghana Time: a Ghanaian Wedding

April 12, 2016

“Ten a.m. And actually at ten, not Ghana time,” Pomaa said. “Because it is at the Catholic church and they are on time.”

Pomaa’s brother was getting married in Accra and she had invited us to attend, and I was very excited to go. It was time to nail down the details, in order to arrange everything.

“It’s at the Catholic church by the post office, Martyrs of Uganda, and it will be a joint wedding with his best friend. And he is a military man, so I think that maybe it might even be early,” she continued. “The colors of the wedding are red, gold and white. Can wear whatever, but Ghanaians try to match the colors. I’m going to be wearing red and white.”

After figuring out some of the travel details with my roommate and predecessor, all that was left was for Saturday to arrive.

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