"Opoku’s Report for the First Half of 1883"

Praetorius’ visit impressed the local people greatly, especially his pressing them over Church Tax, which before they had believed was imposed on them by the missionaries only, 4 people have had to be excluded for sexual irregularities, and two for going to a Mohammedan for help after the one of them had lost two children successively soon after birth. He is, however, positive in his praise of the majority of the community, reports 5 re-acceptances, and 5 catechumens, 4 ex-slaves and one a native of Akyiase. The school has increased from 15 to 22 in the three weeks before he wrote the report - these are mostly of heathen children, and tree of them indeed have offices (as bellringers or singers) in a 'play' group. Many heathens attend services, and many young men are learning to read, their progress not much affected by Opoku's 6 weeks' absence on the coast as witness in a case. In Tafo land has recently been bought for the Christians, when Opoku was in Asokore the chief invited him and many of his.audience into his house to continue preaching when it began to rain. A subscript from Buck remarks that the Juabens are strengthening heathenism by selling amulets in the Akim towns. He names Samang, Anyinam, Kwabeng, Osanase and Kukurantumi. Opoku mentions the Juaben's involvement with Mohammedanism.

04.08.1883

04.08.1883

Text