Sumsum Akwankyεrε: Emerging Modes of Mediation and Appropriation of Spiritual Power in Sections of Ghanaian Christianity

Abstract

Sumsum Akwankyεrε has become a common religious expression and mantra in Ghanaian Christianity particularly among Churches and groups who claim to be ‘prophetic’. Sumsum Akwankyεrε is an Akan expression that actually has multiple meanings. Some of the meanings are ‘spiritual direction’, ‘divine instruction’, or ‘spiritual ways’ etc. Prophets and leaders of this stream of Christianity in Ghana are not trusted by recognised and respected Pentecostals and Charismatics primarily because of their doctrinal orientation and modes of mediating and appropriating spiritual power in their ministries. At the core of Sumsum Akwankyεrε is the synthesis of traditional or primal religious beliefs and practices, proof-texts. The Sumsum Akwankyεrε phenomenon is influencing many young independent pastors and some Pentecostals and Charismatics as well. Even though practitioners of Sumsum Akwankyεrε are noted for their moral scandals, self-deification, leadership flaws, and theological malaises, their ministries seem to be pointing to some timeless theological and missiological questions and issues facing African Christianity in general. These are also yelling indications of the fact that a new phase with new questions, concerns and directions are beginning to dawn on African Christianity whether we take them serious or not.