In a decisive move to reinforce its commitment to ministerial welfare and rural evangelism, the Assemblies of God,Ghana has launched a groundbreaking initiative dubbed "The Mission Samaritan Fund".

This strategic fund is aimed at ensuring the welfare of pastors working in rural and distressed communities.

Its sustainability will be anchored on regular contributions from churches, individuals, and corporate partners, with a strict accountability framework to guarantee transparency.

Fund launch

The official launch took place during the Assemblies of God maiden Pastors and Spouses Prayer Retreat at the Pentecost Convention Centre, Gomoa Fetteh. It was under the theme: “I Will Not Let You Go Unless You Bless Me” (Genesis 32:26–28), supported by 1 Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray Without Ceasing.”

Speaking at the ceremony, Rev. Stephen Wengam, General Superintendent of Assemblies of God Ghana, underscored the church’s responsibility to address the pressing needs of frontline ministers serving in some of the most challenging mission fields.

“The Mission Samaritan Fund is our covenant response to the call of compassion. We must rise to support pastors in need and ensure that the Gospel reaches the forgotten corners of our nation,” he declared.

Reasons for support

On reasons why the congregation must support the fund, Rev. Wengam explained that it is scriptural and it will correct the imbalance between the rural and urban pastors.

Furthermore, he said it will enhance church planting activities and encourage pastors to accept postings to deprived and rural communities.

Making references to Matthew 22:39 and Mark 12:31, the General Superintendent pointed out that giving towards the fund “fulfils the law of Christ.”

On welfare issues, he explained that contributing to the fund will help improve the welfare of rural pastors and further contribute to the speedy growth and expansion of the church.

“It will make our church an attractive denomination and minimise envy among pastors; rural pastors will become more effective and be able to spend more time in prayer and the study of the word as indicated in Acts 6:2” he stated.

On education, Rev. Wengam observed that when members give freely to help sustain the fund, rural pastors will be able to give their children quality education.

“The church will attract God's blessings for caring for the needy as the scripture states in Proverbs 19:17” the General Superintendent added.

Kingdom partnership

The Chairman of the Mission Samaritan Fund, Rev. Dr. John Darko, gave a presentation on the fund stressing that assisting struggling pastors was not merely an act of charity, but a kingdom partnership and a tangible expression of honouring Christ. 

He explained that the initiative would contribute to completing the Great Commission while ensuring financial security for pastors, strengthening underserved communities, and empowering local church leadership.

“It will also enhance the image of the church and foster meaningful partnerships,” Rev. Darko noted.

He urged the church body and the wider public to recognise that even if one cannot physically go to the mission fields, they could still play a vital role by supporting those who do. 

Practical aid

Contributions, he said, could translate into practical aid such as providing a rural pastor with a Bible, a bicycle, food supplies, a bed, or access to healthcare.

Rev. Darko painted a vivid picture of the reality many rural pastors face by walking long distances to minister, surviving without a steady income, and often lacking basic necessities such as healthcare or education for their children. 

He stated that despite personal hardships and financial strain, these ministers continue to faithfully proclaim the Gospel, seeking neither luxury nor status, but simply the means to serve their congregations without the shadow of deprivation.