ghana news Harmonious Chorale, Achimota School celebrate Joyce Aryee

Two musical events have been held at two separate venues to celebrate the 80th birthday of one of Ghana’s illustrious women, Dr Joyce Rosalind Aryee, on her 80th birthday.

Put together by Ghana’s international chorale group, the Harmonious Chorale, the two events and venues reflected her life’s journey —The ICGC Christ Temple, East, her current ministry and at the Achimota School, where she had her secondary education and where she found her love for music.

Both events attracted family, friends and other stakeholders, honouring the woman who has embodied the modern-day stateswoman.

From public service to politics and now into ministry, Dr Aryee stands as a distinguished figure in Ghana, reflecting a remarkable blend of leadership, public service and spiritual devotion, successfully transitioning from one phase of service to another over 40 years.

Birthday, concerts

On Friday, March 27, the actual birthday, Dr Aryee began her day with a thanksgiving Mass before attending the concert held at the ICGC Christ Temple, East at Teshie.

Among the guests were former First Ladies, Rebecca Akufo-Addo and Fulera Limman, as well as former Chief Justice, Georgina Wood and other dignitaries.

Then on Sunday, the concert moved to the Achimota School, where the celebrant was joined by family, classmates and friends, yet again honouring her legacy as the only person alive to have a house named after her at Achimota.

During both events, elegantly dressed members of the musical Harmonious Chorale, led by its Executive Director and founder, Dr James Varrick Armaah, put up splendid performances in celebration of its life patron.

Dr Aryee, the Executive Chairperson of the group, at one point, also took to the stage to sing in praise of God for his blessings.

Gratitude

In his brief remarks to celebrate her, the Head Pastor of ICGC, Pastor Mensa Otabil, commended Dr Aryee for her diligence and dedication in public service and for always leading with integrity.

He thanked God for her life, saying His grace had indeed preserved and sustained her over the 80 years, saying: “I used to think people at 80 were truly old, until I met Rev. Dr Joyce Aryee!”

Dr Aryee, also in her remarks, thanked God for taking care of her and blessing her with good health and all the goodwill she had enjoyed.

She said, while she had been a Christian since 1964, she had no real fulfilment and joy until she completely heeded the call to go into ministry.

“The first 40 years of my life were quite chaotic and disruptive until I handed over my all to God, and from that time, I have flourished more than I could have imagined, and I’m grateful for all the blessings He has sent my way, including all of you who have come together to honour me,” Dr Aryee said.