Ghanaian journalist Halifax Ansah-Addo has criticised the attitude of some Christians towards secular musicians, arguing that refusing to allow them to perform songs with Christian messages in churches makes them appear spiritually unworthy.
He made the observation during the Gentlemen N Gentlemen podcast, hosted by entertainment journalist Arnold Asamoah Baidoo, while explaining why he believes secular artistes should be allowed to perform in churches.
Halifax said some musicians who are not identified as gospel artistes write songs that promote prayer, love for God and good conduct, yet they are often excluded from church programmes because of their musical identity.
He argued that the decision to keep such musicians away from church platforms sends a message that they are not fit to stand before a congregation.
“When we do not bring them into our churches to come and perform the songs they write, and these songs preach the word of God, preach the good news, when we do that attitude, it means they are not fit for our church altar,” he said.
Halifax explained that he was not personally describing Adane Best as an unclean person but was pointing out what he considered the implication of the attitude some Christians display towards secular musicians.
“I’m not saying Adane is unclean. I’m saying that is the interpretation of our attitude as Christians,” he clarified.
He further challenged the distinction Christians make between gospel and secular musicians when deciding who should be allowed to perform in church.
According to him, calling an artiste secular should not automatically mean the person is unsuitable to enter a church and sing songs that communicate Christian values.
“Once you say you are secular, it means you are unclean to come into our church,” he said, explaining the perception he believes such exclusion creates.
Halifax used his decision to invite Adane Best to his brother’s church as an example, saying the musician performed four songs that carried messages about prayer, love for humanity, love for God and respect for others.