Not many lives tell a story as seamless and inspiring as that of the Very Rev. Joshua Kwaku Aboagye Orgen, a man whose journey from the classroom to the pulpit has been marked by dedication, humility and an unwavering commitment to service.

Born on April 18, 1956 into a deeply rooted Methodist family, his early life was shaped by faith, discipline and service.

Exactly a week today when he celebrated his 70^th anniversary, Very Rev. Aboagye Orgen, reflected on God’s goodness and the strength to work as a vessel of God to impact on the lives of people.

As the son of Rev. Albert Emmanuel Kwamina Orgen and Mrs Hannah Orgen, both of blessed memory, he grew up in an environment where ministry was not just a calling but a way of life.

Moving across communities such as Winneba, Asante Akyim Bompata and Mankessim, young Joshua absorbed values that would later define his path and outlook on life.

He was not spared the life that children of ministers usually go through regarding their appointments various parts of the globe.

He began his secondary education at The Gambia High School following his father’s missionary assignment that took him to The Gambia.

He returned to Ghana to continue at the Aggrey Memorial Zion Secondary School in Cape Coast, an experience that broadened his worldview, exposed him to diverse cultures and strengthened his academic foundation in profound ways.

Before answering the call to full-time ministry, Very Rev. Orgen began as a teacher, a role that would quietly shape his pastoral approach for years to come.

Trained at Wesley College, he taught at the Methodist Junior Secondary Schools in Asante Bekwai and Agona Swedru, nurturing young minds and instilling discipline.

Those early years in the classroom sharpened his ability to guide, counsel and connect with people, qualities that would later define his pastoral leadership.

But in 1982, his life took a defining turn. He enrolled at Trinity Theological College, answering a higher calling to serve in God’s vineyard.

By 1985, he had completed his Diploma in Theology, stepping fully into ministry with a heart prepared for service and a mind equipped for leadership. His quest for knowledge did not end there.

He later pursued a first degree at the University of Cape Coast and further advanced his education with a master’s degree from GIMPA, reflecting his belief in continuous growth and learning.

Over the decades, his work in the Methodist Church Ghana has reflected both depth and breadth.

Beginning his pastoral journey in Abora Aboase and Akwatia, he steadily rose through the ranks, eventually serving as superintendent minister in several key circuits including Essiama, Dunkwa-on-Offin, New Tafo-Kumasi, Dzorwulu, North Kaneshie, Asamankese, Dansoman South and Dome.

In each of these places, he left a lasting imprint of strong leadership, spiritual renewal and community development.

What sets Very Rev. Orgen apart is not just the number of places he has served, but the impact he made in each of them. Known for his calm demeanour, but very firm, discipline and deep sense of responsibility, he has consistently nurtured congregations, strengthened church structures and inspired spiritual growth.

His leadership style, often described as both firm and compassionate, has earned him respect across the circuits he has served.

One of the most defining chapters of his ministry was his role in Lay Ministries.

At the Freeman Centre in Kumasi, he dedicated four years to training lay leaders, equipping ordinary church members with the skills, knowledge and confidence to take active roles in ministry.

This contribution, though often behind the scenes, has had a far-reaching impact on the growth and sustainability of the church.

Beyond his clerical duties, Very Rev. Orgen remains grounded in simple but meaningful pursuits. His interest in farming and building construction reflects a man who values growth, patience and legacy, principles that mirror his approach to ministry.

These passions also reveal his practical side, one that balances spiritual responsibilities with real-world engagement.

He is also known for his love for football, particularly his unwavering support for Manchester United, a detail that adds a relatable and human touch to his otherwise disciplined and structured life.

Today, the story of Very Rev. Joshua Kwaku Aboagye Orgen is not just about positions held or years served. It is about a life of influence, one that began in the classroom, matured in the pulpit, and continues to inspire through example. His journey reflects resilience, purpose and a deep commitment to service.

As he is honoured and celebrated, one thing stands clear: his life is a testament to the power of faith, dedication and selfless service.

Through decades of ministry, he has touched countless lives, mentored many and contributed significantly to the growth of the Methodist Church Ghana.

Indeed, his legacy is not only in the places he has served but in the lives he has transformed.

The SOS Hermann Gmeiner International College in Tamale has marked this year’s Ghana Month with a colourful Heritage Month celebration, as learners showcased Ghana’s rich cultural diversity through a variety of traditional activities.

The event, held on the school campus, was attended by students, staff, and invited guests that enjoyed a lively display of cultural display, featuring traditional drumming and dancing, local cuisine exhibitions, storytelling, poetry recitals, and a parade of traditional attire representing different ethnic groups across the country.

Learners actively participated in the activities, demonstrating a deep appreciation of Ghanaian heritage and identity. The celebration formed part of efforts to instill cultural values and national pride among the younger generation.

The Head of School, Catherine Maweh, underscored the importance of cultural education in shaping responsible global citizens.

“Celebrating our culture is not just about dressing in traditional attire; it is about understanding who we are as a people and appreciating the values that define us as Ghanaians,” she said.

“At SOS, we are committed to nurturing well-rounded learners who are grounded in their identity while excelling academically.”

She added that such events provide a platform for students to learn beyond the classroom and connect with their roots in meaningful ways.

She also said that, the Heritage Month celebration at SOS Tamale forms part of nationwide activities marking Ghana Month in March, aimed at promoting local culture, traditions, and national unity.

The Northern Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Angelo Dogbe, commended the school for promoting Ghana’s cultural heritage among young people.

He encouraged other educational institutions to adopt similar initiatives to help sustain Ghana’s rich cultural legacy.

By Geoffrey Kwame Buta, Tamale