“Celebrating 50 Years of Living a Transformed Life through Christ” echoed through the auditorium. You are standing before the 37 Military Hospital Methodist Presbyterian Church known as Methodist Presbyterian Church 37. It’s more than just a church it is a beacon of faith within Accra’s military community.
The Methodist Presbyterian Church 37’s story began in December 1973. Rev Lt Col DT Padi suggested forming a church during a Unit Padre Hour at the 37 Military Hospital Other Ranks Canteen. The 37 Military Hospital Inter-denominational Church was formed. Services were initially held at the Army Nursing Service Mess.
In April 1974 Rev Lt Col C K Affainie took over from Rev Lt Col DT Padi. Civilians joined the military and medical staff for worship. A larger space was needed. Lt Col Akudey Gletsu offered an old storeroom. This storeroom once held old medical and sports equipment. It now stands as the location of the new Church auditorium.
The congregation included Anglicans. Two services were held each Sunday to accommodate everyone. An Anglican Mass was held at 0700 hours. A Methodist/Presbyterian worship followed at 0900 hours. The Church Committee comprised Anglicans Methodists and Presbyterians.
Early leaders included Col Wilson Maj Okai Mensah and WOI Quarmeyne. Col Faustina Yebuah secured furnishings. Mr Kobi from the State Construction Company helped purchase an Altar Pulpit Lectern and Pews. Col KA Quarshie ordered a Farfisa Electronic Organ.
Methodist Presbyterian Church 37’s membership grew. It became the closest military-connected church besides Garrison Methodist Presbyterian Church. Members came from El-Wak Barracks Flag Staff House and beyond.
Colonel Timothy Barnes inaugurated the first group of Choristers in 1974. Rev Lt Col Kofi Asare dedicated the first choir robes. Also the 14th Accra Company of the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade was established in 1974.
As membership expanded the storeroom became too small. Construction of the first church building began in 1987. Services were held under trees. Later the 37 Military Hospital Basic School classroom block was used.
In June 2014 worship moved to the Church Hall. A new Church Auditorium was constructed. Construction began in August 2014 under Rev Lt Col Dr Bliss Divine Agbeko. Generous contributions enabled the project to commence.
The main Church auditorium was dedicated on 20 November 2022. The Most Reverend Dr Paul Kwabena Boafo officiated. Today Methodist Presbyterian Church 37 has 650 members.
Many Reverend Ministers have served. They include Rev Capt DT Padi and Rev Flt Lt R Asiedu-Perdison.
The Methodist Presbyterian Church 37 stands as a testament to faith community and service. It supports the spiritual and emotional health of military members and their families. It embodies commitment and selflessness. A place where hope is nurtured.