The International Central Church of the Gospel (ICGC) has organized its 2024 annual ‘Life Walk’ event, which combines health, fitness, charity and evangelism.
The event, held on Saturday 23 March, was enthusiastically attended by church members, community members and well-wishers, all coming together to support a worthy cause.
The 2024 edition of the Life Walk was because it was part of activities planned to celebrate the 40th anniversary of ICGC.
Participants gathered early in the morning to embark on a 12km walk, symbolizing their commitment to holistic wellbeing and healthy living. The walk was not only a physical exercise but also a show of support for charity, reflecting ICGC’s mission to positively impact society through the gospel.
Pastor Mensa Otabil, General Overseer of ICGC, expressed his gratitude to all participants and emphasized the importance of the event in promoting healthy living and supporting charitable causes.
He praised the participants for their dedication and encouraged them to continue making fitness a part of their lifestyle.
One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of a GH₵200,000 donation to the Ghana Mental Health Authority.
This donation is part of ICGC’s ongoing commitment to supporting mental health care in the country. The church has been actively involved in raising awareness about mental health issues and fighting stigma through various initiatives and partnerships.
In a symbolic gesture, Rev. Anthony Cudjoe, Res. Priscilla Naana Nketia and Rev. Selina Klu Abini presented a virtual donation check to the CEO and officers of the Mental Health Authority on behalf of the church.
In her remarks, Dr. Pinaman Appau, CEO of the Mental Health Authority, expressed her appreciation for ICGC’s continued support over the years.
It said the Mental Health Authority has chosen to use the financial support it received to implement specialist initiatives to mitigate mental health problems among children and adolescents through school-based interventions and community outreach programmes.
“Research shows that a significant percentage of teenagers worldwide experience mental disorders, while a significant number face daily psychological struggles. “Almost 10% of adolescents in Ghana qualify for a psychiatric diagnosis, with negative effects on their academic performance, social interactions and overall quality of life,” said Dr. Appau.
The CEO further cited increasing substance use, behavioral addictions such as gambling and suicide attempts among our youth.
“A study of 5024 children between the ages of 8 and 17 from three regions of Ghana showed that 3.1% engage in gambling activities. This was a major concern for the Mental Health Authority,” he added.
Dr. Appau also announced a mental health awareness month called ‘Purple Month’ in May.
The Authority has planned a month-long activity to raise awareness of mental health in various areas of the health sector, including maternal mental health, adolescent mental health and workplace mental health.
Life Walk 2024 is a testament to ICGC’s commitment to holistic development and community impact.
As the church looks forward to its 41st year, it reaffirms its commitment to developing leaders, shaping vision and positively influencing society through Christ.
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