In a powerful demonstration of compassion, faith, and social responsibility, Rev. Victor Stoner Darko, Head Pastor of the Spirit Life Community Church (Faith Sanctuary) at Ohwimase Hill Top in the Kwadaso Municipality of the Ashanti Region, celebrated his 50th birthday by reaching out to those often forgotten in society — the inmates of the Kumasi Central Prison.
Marking his golden jubilee in an extraordinary way, Rev. Darko prepared and served hot rice with delicious stew to more than 400 inmates at the prison. The outreach was not just a charitable gesture but a heartfelt mission to share love, hope, and the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Rev. Darko spent quality time with the inmates, not only dining with them but also leading a short but impactful session of worship and exhortation. Addressing the inmates, he emphasized that prison is not the end of life and urged them not to lose hope. “All is not lost,” he assured. “No matter where you find yourself today, there is still hope in Christ. God can rewrite your story and give you a new beginning. I urge each of you to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Saviour.”
He added that society often forgets about inmates, but as Christians, it is a divine responsibility to remember and minister to them. Quoting Scripture, Rev. Darko reminded the gathering that true religion is demonstrated when we care for the vulnerable — including prisoners, the sick, the poor, and strangers.
In a broader message to the public, he urged individuals to manage their emotions, particularly anger, which he noted as a major factor leading many into conflict with the law.
“Many of the people in here are not necessarily evil. Some just made a single mistake in a moment of uncontrolled anger. Be careful when you’re angry — one bad decision can change your entire life,” he cautioned.
The event drew praise from the prison authorities, who described the gesture as timely and deeply meaningful. Receiving the donation on behalf of the Kumasi Central Prison, the Ashanti Regional Prison Chaplain, superintendent Rev. Mrs. Stella Ama Anku Katso, expressed her profound gratitude.
“We are incredibly grateful to Rev. Victor Stoner Darko for this act of generosity and love,” she said. “You have given these inmates not just food, but a message of hope and renewal. We hope others in the church and wider society will follow your example.”
Rev. Darko was joined by his wife, daughter, and some members of his church during the outreach.
Rev. Mrs superintendent Stella Ama Anku Katso. also used the occasion to appeal to individuals, churches, and organizations to support the needs of inmates, noting that rehabilitation is a collective effort that requires both spiritual and material support.
The celebration ended with smiles and renewed faith as inmates enjoyed their meals and reflected on the powerful message delivered. For many, the visit served as a reminder that they are not forgotten — and that transformation is possible, even within prison walls.
Rev. Victor Stoner Darko’s 50th birthday celebration, far from a lavish party, became a meaningful act of service, reminding society that milestones are best marked not just with cake and gifts, but with compassion, faith, and impact.
