The Seventh Day Adventist Church in the Wenchi West District, Bono Region, Ghana, has recognized and awarded 20 young girls for maintaining their virginity, as part of efforts to promote moral values and Christian principles among young women.
The award ceremony, organized by the Young Adventist Women Ministries, celebrated girls aged 13 to 16 years, recognizing their moral integrity and encouraging them to uphold cultural and religious values in their lives.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Nana Amponsah Poku, Coordinator of the Young Adventist Women Ministries, said the initiative aims to nurture the holistic well-being of young girls by reinforcing self-worth, confidence, and wise decision-making in their personal lives and relationships.
Mrs. Poku likened the ceremony to traditional puberty rites such as Bragoro and Dipo, which are cultural practices that prepare young girls for adulthood and marriage.
She noted that the church’s approach is a modernized Christian version, focused on presenting the girls before God for blessings and spiritual guidance.
In his address, Pastor Andrews Dua Bour Kyereh,Associate Pastor of the Wenchi West District, commended the honorees for their discipline and commitment to purity. He encouraged them to focus on their education and remain faithful to their Christian beliefs.
He further urged other young girls in the church and the community to emulate the example set by the honorees, emphasizing that moral living is essential for personal growth and community development.
Pastor Kyereh also advised parents to play an active role in instilling discipline and guiding their children toward virtuous living. He stressed that parental support and mentorship are critical in helping young people navigate societal pressures.
Some of the awarded girls expressed their gratitude to the church leaders for their guidance and support. They acknowledged that the church’s teachings have helped them uphold their values and make wise decisions in their daily lives.