Abstract:
We cannot realistically analyse national development without factoring religion into the analysis.
In the same way, we cannot design any economic development plan without acknowledging
the influence of religion on its implementation. The fact is that, many economic development
policies require a change from old values, attitudes, beliefs and behaviour patterns of the
citizenry to those that are supportive of the new policy. Christianity has become a potent social
force in every facet of Ghanaian life, from family life, economic activities, occupation, and
health to education. In the light of the essential role of religion in national development, this
article discusses the role the Basel Mission Society played in the development of Ghana and
its missiological implications. This article argues that the Basel Mission Society did not only
present the gospel to the people of Ghana, they also practicalised the gospel by developing
their converts spiritually, economically, and educationally. Through these acts of love by the
Basel Mission Society, the spreading of the Gospel gathered momentum and advanced.
Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The article contributes to the
interdisciplinary discourse on religion and development with specific reference to the role
of the Basel Mission Society’s activities in Ghana (1828–1918). It provides missiological
implications of their activities in the light of the broader Ecumenical discourses.
