Neo-Prophetic Akwankyerɛ and Membership Retention in the Methodist and Anglican Churches in Ghana

A Contextual-Theological Assessment

Abstract

Neo-prophetic Christianity in Ghana has popularised the practice of akwankyerɛ, or spiritual guidance and direction, and has reshaped the country’s religious and ecclesiastical landscape. Although the Methodist and Anglican churches have historically prioritised liturgical, sacramental, doctrinal, and ecclesiastical order, some members seek neo-prophetic ministries that emphasise charismatic spirituality and offer responses to contemporary spiritual and existential concerns. This study examines the relationship between akwankyerɛ and membership retention in the Methodist and Anglican churches in Ghana. It employs a critical literature review and contextual-theological analysis informed by scholarship on neo-prophetic Christianity, African Pentecostalism, and Historic Mission Churches. The study argues that some members seek spiritual direction outside their churches because they perceive Methodist and Anglican ministries as insufficiently responsive to unemployment, spiritual insecurity, family dysfunction, sickness, witchcraft, and curses. It concludes that scripturally grounded healing, spiritual direction, and prophetic ministry, aligned with Methodist and Anglican theological traditions and ecclesiastical oversight, could strengthen pastoral care and help address migration to neo-prophetic churches.