By Elizabeth PUNSU, Kumasi
The Ashanti Regional Women’s Ministry wing of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), otherwise called Precious Vessels of Virtue (PVV) has held the 6th edition of the PVV Conference in Kumasi.
The two-day conference which brought together women from the various temples and branches of the Church in the region had the primary objective to empower women to embrace their identity which was on the theme, “God’s Chosen: Embracing Our Identity and Purpose,”
In her welcome address, the Convener and Conference host, Lady Mrs Mercy Odotei, wife of the senior Pastor of Trinity Temple, Rev. Sylvanus Sowah Odotei stressed the importance of women embracing their God-given identity and purpose.
Mrs. Odotei highlighted the growing identity crisis in today’s world, where many struggle to accept the roles and purposes God has ordained for them.
She pointed to a troubling trend where some women seek to assume the roles of men and vice versa, leading to confusion about true identity. Against this background, she reaffirmed ICGC’s mission to empower women to fully embrace their unique roles as intended by God.
“ICGC’s vision is to raise strong women who will shape their visions, recognize their God-given purposes, and positively influence society,” she said. Mrs. Odotei stressed that women are not just integral to God’s creation but essential to its progress. “Without women, the world cannot advance as God intended,” she added.
Mrs. Odotei further underscored the critical role of women as God willed. “Women are saviours to the world. We are partners in God’s creation. and must embrace our roles rather than trying to adopt the identities of men. God has a specific purpose for each of us, and it is our duty to fulfill it,” she stressed.
Acknowledging the challenges christians face in a world that often seeks to redefine identity, Mrs. Odotei encouraged women to remain steadfast in their faith. She noted that women carry unique qualities the world desperately needs, such as the ability to nurture, support, and lead. By embracing these roles, women fulfill God’s divine plan.
She therefore called on women globally to reject societal pressures that push them away from their true identity. Instead, she urged women to think and act in alignment with the purpose God has instilled in them. This, the church believes, will empower women to positively influence the world while spreading God’s love and purpose in all aspects of life.
In a world filled with uncertainty and shifting values, Mrs. Odotei said that PVV’s conference would serve as a guiding light, encouraging women to embrace their true identities and shape a future aligned with God’s plan.
Juaben Circuit Court Judge, Her Honour Rosemarie Afua Asante, was the chairperson for the opening ceremony. Seasoned pastors and professionals took turns to speak to participants on identifying and embracing their identity as women.
