Unity and Diversity among Ghana’s new Prophetic Churches: A Comparative Study of Vida Bethel Prayer Ministry and Believers Worship Centre

Abstract

Neo-prophetism has gained significant visibility in contemporary Ghanaian Christianity. It is a dominant Pentecostal strand, giving birth to several composite ministries in the country. Given this multiplicity, it has become challenging to understand the underlying complexities of these prophetic churches, especially in Ghana. Based on this, the article compares two prominent, new prophetic churches in Ghana – the Vida Bethel Prayer Ministry (VBPM) and Believers Worship Center (BWC) – to identify their similarities and dissimilarities. This paper draws on VBPM and BWC’s teachings, recorded sermons, and members’ experiences. This shows a consensus in the beliefs and practices of the ministries. It also reveals the variations in activities and how the selected ministries are responsible for such variations. This paper highlights how the shared, yet diverse characteristics of prophetic churches not only strengthen religion but also provide members with varied feelings and experiences regarding their neo-prophetic faith. This article enhances our understanding of the neo-prophetic phenomenon in Ghanaian communities.