Rev. Apostle Emmanuel Tettey has called on Christians to embrace sacrificial love and responsible fatherhood as central messages of Christmas, rather than mere celebration and tradition.
Delivering his contribution as a panelist at the 7th Conversations in the Cathedral, on the 10th December, 2025, at the Holy Spirit Cathedral, in the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, on theme: “is that not the carpenter’s son?”, the GPCC General Secretary described fatherhood as a divine calling, urging men to emulate the character of Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus.
“Joseph was obedient, responsible, law-abiding, and took care of a child who was not biologically his,” he said. “If all men were like Joseph, the world would be a happier place,” he added.
He lamented the growing neglect of paternal responsibility, noting that while mothers are often celebrated, fathers are sometimes unfairly sidelined or misunderstood.
Rev. Tettey also urged parents, especially mothers, to help children appreciate the contributions of fathers in the home.
Turning to Christian conduct, he challenged believers to embrace Jesus’ new commandment of love as stated in John 13:34–35.
“Jesus did not say love your neighbour as yourself. He said love your neighbour as I have loved you,” he explained.
According to him, love is defined by sacrifice, as expressed in Romans 5:8, where Christ died for humanity while people were still undeserving.
“The new commandment means loving your neighbour more than yourself,” he said.
He noted that Christmas is a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice, leaving divine riches to live among humanity, and called on Christians to show love even in the face of hostility, rejection, or indifference.
“The bottom line is love; once we express it to everyone, we have done our part,” he concluded.
By Theresa Kpordzo//Newswatchgh.com
