Churches Of Christ Expand Rapidly In Ghana And Togo Amid Missionary Efforts

The Churches of Christ are experiencing rapid growth in Ghana and Togo, driven by a strong emphasis on evangelism and discipleship. In rural areas, congregations are expanding despite limited resources, with many communities lacking preachers and facilities. One example is the town of Greater Dzodze, where the first Church of Christ opened three decades ago. Today, it has grown to include more than 30 congregations with an estimated 5,000 members.

This expansion is part of a broader movement across West Africa. Last year, a 10-day campaign in northern Togo led to 2,800 baptisms, while a February campaign saw 1,537 baptisms and the establishment of 47 new churches. The growth is particularly notable in regions where infrastructure is limited, and many communities rely on basic materials like tin and thatched roofs for shelter.

Keith Johnson, Africa coordinator for World Bible Institute, noted that the work in Africa is growing faster than anywhere else. The Ghana-Togo Mission has planted and aided over 250 congregations in Ghana and 150 in Togo. Each congregation is provided with a basic structure—typically a frame with a tin roof—to protect members from the harsh climate.

Johnson, who left South Africa in 1985, recalled being told that Africa would be sending missionaries to America in the next 50 years. That prediction has not come to pass, but the continent has become a hub for Christian growth, particularly within the Churches of Christ.

The spread of the gospel in these regions is often linked to the needs of the poor. “The gospel is for the poor,” said John Morkli, who works with the mission. In areas where people lack clean water and basic shelter, the message of Christ resonates deeply. Many in these communities see discipleship as a way to store up treasures in heaven rather than in this world.

John Morkli’s dedication has earned him recognition as a key figure in the mission. Doc Turk, a servant at the Pine Tree Church of Christ in Longview, Texas, who oversees the Ghana-Togo Mission, described Morkli as “the greatest disciple maker I’ve ever seen.” Turk emphasized Morkli’s relentless efforts in training new leaders and establishing churches.

The mission has also focused on education, building six preaching schools in Togo and two in Ghana. These schools aim to equip local men with the skills needed to lead and sustain the growing congregations. “We need to quickly train men to take care of these churches,” Turk said, highlighting the urgency of this task.

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