The House of Love Christian Centre has organised this year’s “Night to Shine” celebration in Ho, calling for greater love, acceptance and inclusion for children with special needs and autism.
Reverend Dr Lovelace Tetteh, Head Pastor of the Church, said society must create space for children with special needs to be visible and appreciated rather than hidden due to stigma.
He explained that the event was designed to demonstrate love and give public recognition to children whose parents sometimes feel reluctant to bring them into social spaces.
“We want to show love to everyone, both physically strong and those with special needs. Some parents keep their children indoors because of the stigma. But when they are hidden, who will know their needs? Tonight is about bringing them out to shine,” he said.
Rev. DrTetteh noted that the programme forms part of a global initiative spearheaded by the Tim Tebow Foundation, which sponsors similar events worldwide. In Ghana, the celebration is being held in 11 regions.
He said the Ho event was organised by House of Love Christian Centre in collaboration with other churches, individuals and partners, with support from the Tim Tebow Foundation.
As a member of ‘Ghana Without Orphans’, he said he was inspired to participate in the global celebration to promote hope and inclusion for vulnerable children.
He expressed confidence that the event would not only boost the confidence of participants but also draw attention to their needs, encouraging individuals and organisations to provide support such as school fees, medical assistance and other forms of care.
Madam Stella Mawusi Agbezuhlor Mawutor, Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare, described the celebration as more than a social gathering.
“Today is a declaration that persons with disabilities and special needs are not objects of pity, but people of purpose, dignity, ability and immense worth,” she said.
She stressed that every participant was uniquely gifted and deserving full inclusion in society.
Madam Mawutor reaffirmed the Department’s mandate to promote social protection and the wellbeing of vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, and emphasised the need for collaboration among stakeholders.
“The government alone cannot do it. Churches, families, traditional authorities, NGOs, the private sector and community members all have vital roles to play,” she stated.
She encouraged stronger partnerships between faith-based organisations and state institutions to improve identification, referral, and support services for persons with disabilities.
Rev Irene Ashiagbor, Head Pastor of Crossover Evangelistic Ministry, also addressed the gathering, describing the event as a celebration of lives that are precious and deeply loved.
Quoting Psalm 139:14, she reminded participants that they were “fearfully and wonderfully made,” adding that the focus of the night was on celebrating uniqueness and ability rather than limitations.
“Tonight, we honour royalty. You are valued, you are loved, and you shine brightly in our community and in God’s Kingdom,” she said.
The celebration that took place on Friday February 13, featured various activities, including make-up and shoe-shine sessions, limousine rides with police escorts, a red-carpet welcome with paparazzi, a photo booth, a catered dinner, karaoke, a catwalk, cultural displays and the crowning of each participant.
Parents and caregivers expressed gratitude to the House of Love Christian Centre and the Tim Tebow Foundation for what they described as a heartwarming and dignified programme that made their children feel special and celebrated.
The “Night to Shine” event, the first of its kind in the Region, highlighted the growing call for inclusion, visibility and equal opportunities for children and young people with special needs.
GNA
