A Royal Seal of Approval for the Triangle of Hope Group in Ghana

Revd Canon Mal Rogers tells us more about why the recent Triangle of Hope trip to Ghana was so significant in the strengthening relationship between our three dioceses.

From 25th June to 6th July, groups from Liverpool and Virginia travelled to Kumasi, Ghana for the final leg of the current inter-diocesan youth pilgrimages. One of the highlights of the trip being an audience with the King Asantehene Osei Tutu II.

The three-year journey of experiential learning focuses on the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, undergirded by a commitment that young people have it within their power and before God to transform a ‘Triangle of Despair’ into a ‘Triangle of Hope’. The curriculum covers subjects such as modern-day slavery, human trafficking, citizenship, racism and much more. Each young person has an adult mentor and works towards achieving bespoke goals agreed after three-month induction.

The particular focus of this trip to Ghana has been to equip future pilgrimage leaders for the next three-year cycle and has involved much discussion and planning as well as continuing to deepen our relationship with Kumasi.

Revd Canon Mal Rogers tells us “It has gone unbelievably well, with an audience with the King Asantehene Osei Tutu II being a highpoint as during which Royal endorsement of our work was granted. Breaking with royal protocol, the King addressed the group in English, rather than in Twi, the local language. I found out later that this great honour was granted to us such is the importance of this relationship, that speaking plainly to each other strengthens the bond between us. 

“He was fascinated to hear about projects we are involved with around the country and the difference it will make, calling it a vital piece of work and keen to know what was next, asking to be kept updated.
“Practical ventures ranging from work in schools, health clinics and social enterprises is how this ‘Triangle of Despair’ is being transformed into a ‘Triangle of Hope’.

“This is a different kind of relationship, one of learning from each other. The focus on the slave trade is so that we don’t shy away from our past, but acknowledge the history and pay homage to it by ensuring that we build a better future.”

The three groups from Kumasi, Liverpool and Virginia Dioceses have bonded well and met for presentations and workshops in preparation for the next cycle of inter-diocesan youth pilgrimages that will begin when the three dioceses will come together again in Liverpool 2020.

Recruitment for the Liverpool pilgrimage group begins in late August for 15 young people from around the Diocese. So watch this space if you are aged 14 and over as details will be released soon.

A last word from Mal is, “Medaase”, which means a heartfelt thank-you in Twi.
For further information have a look at The Triangle of Hope website.