Jugendarbeit im Wandel eine Fallstudie über die Arbeit mit Jungen Menschen innerhalb der Presbyterianischen Kirche von Ghana

Abstract

This dissertation describes and interprets the history of Presbyterian Youth Ministry from the beginning up to today. The Presbyterian Church of Ghana originated from the work of the Basel Mission, Switzerland and the United Free Church of Scotland. The emphasis on education, laid by the Basel Mission has had a major impact for the Church and especially for Youth Ministry. This emphasis was seen through the building of Schools, Training Institutions and through practical training of young people. Andrew Atkinson, a Scottish accountant at the then Gold Coast, laid the foundation for youth work within the Church. Very soon this ministry developed throughout the country. With the formation of a Youth Constitution as the basis for youth work, a good framework was established that still guides the Youth today. Today, Youth work has been broadened. Through different projects it is envisaged to give answers to the manifold problems of young people in a fast changing African society. Social projects, HIV/AIDS work, but at first the training of young people is a major part of youth work today. Conferences are held on different levels, training materials have been developed and youth workers have been trained to take up future responsibilities as leaders. One emphasis has remained and has its roots in the Basel Mission history: a Bible based youth ministry that equips young people to follow Christ as disciples in their day-to-day lives. Within this success story there has of course also been some failure and weakness. Both, success and struggle is evident within this dissertation.