The Anglican Diocese of Tema has cut the sod for the construction of a US$572,000 modern recreational and development centre, a major community and income-generating project.
The ceremony, held at St Stephen's Anglican Church in Tema last Tuesday, brought together clergy, church members, project consultants and distinguished guests to officially commence the project, which is expected to be completed by January 2028.
The Anglican v of Tema, Rt Rev. Dr George Kotei Neequaye, described the occasion as a historic milestone in the life of the Diocese.
He said the vision for the centre was conceived nearly four years ago as part of efforts to strengthen the Diocese's financial base and reduce the burden of diocesan assessments on congregations.
Premier venue
The Bishop explained that when completed, the St Stephen's Recreational and Development Centre would serve as a premier venue for conferences, weddings, seminars, retreats, family celebrations, corporate events, youth programmes and other community activities.
"The project is much more than a new building. It is the fulfilment of a vision that will create an independent source of income to support the mission and ministry of the Church," he said.
Bishop Neequaye expressed gratitude to Trinity Church, Wall Street, New York, for providing a grant facility worth US$400,000 towards the project, describing the gesture as a remarkable demonstration of Christian partnership and solidarity.
He disclosed that the Diocese had undertaken to raise the remaining funds of US$175,000 and had so far mobilised $65,000 through contributions from members and friends of the Church. He appealed to members of the Diocese, corporate organisations and well-wishers to support the fundraising effort to ensure the successful completion of the project.
Investment
The Executive Chairman of ADK Consortium, Michael Krakue, said the centre represented a bold investment in people, particularly the youth, families and the wider community.
A member of the project management team and Quantity Surveyor, Francis Obeng Acheampong, presented details of the architectural design and implementation framework.
Writer's email:
