Ex-Presby moderator urges shift from ‘western gaze’ in addressing LGBTQI+ challenges

The immediate past Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Most Rev. Prof. Joseph Obiri Yeboah Mante, has called on Ghanaians and other third-world countries to break free from what he terms the ‘Western Gaze’ as a means to combat issues like LGBTQI+.

Speaking at the inaugural National Assembly of the Presbyterian Counsellors’ Association (PCA) in Abetifi-Kwahu, Most Rev. Mante emphasized the need for a mindset shift and reorientation.

He defined the Western Gaze as the uncritical and insatiable attraction towards everything Western, including culture, technology, academic pursuits, migration, and entertainment, without proper scrutiny.

According to Most Rev. Mante, avoiding the Western Gaze is crucial in addressing challenges such as LGBTQI+, as it moves beyond legislation and debates to a more profound change in perspective.

He suggested that counseling, particularly through mediums like counseling, should play a significant role in helping societies deal with these realities.

He stressed that counseling goes beyond advice, and practitioners should use their training, skills, and knowledge inspired by the teachings of Christ and the Holy Spirit to address complex issues.

During the National Assembly of the Presbyterian Counsellors’ Association, Most Rev. Mante highlighted the importance of holistic counseling, drawing parallels with biblical examples.

He urged counselors to offer not only advice but also to profess Christ, declare His healing power, and provide physical and emotional support to those in need.

He warned against confusing Christian and academic or secular counseling, emphasizing the need for Christian counselors to apply the tenets through the eye of Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Most Rev. Mante urged Christian and religious scholars to aspire to influential positions and decision-making platforms to impact theories, policies, and decisions that shape vital elements of life.

The National President of the Presbyterian Counsellors’ Association, Mrs. Ivy Anane-Adjei, expressed gratitude to the former Moderator for his dedication and commitment to the association’s operations.

The assembly focused on the theme “Jesus Christ The Alpha and Omega; The Holy Spirit- Our Counsellor,” emphasizing the spiritual aspects of counseling.

The Presbyterian Counsellors’ Association serves as the umbrella organization for all trained and practicing counselors within the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, including professionals, clergy, and lay counselors.

The National Assembly aimed to enhance the understanding and practice of counseling, especially within the Christian and Presbyterian context.