Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, the General Overseer of the United Denominations of Action Chapel International, has called on middle-aged men to prioritize their prostate health.
Sharing a deeply personal testimony, the Archbishop revealed that early detection played a critical role in his successful battle against prostate cancer, a disease that continues to pose a significant health risk, particularly to black men.
Speaking during the 31st all-night service at Action Chapel on December 31, 2024, the Archbishop used the platform to stress the importance of regular medical check-ups and proactive health measures. His sermon, which ushered the congregation into the New Year 2025, carried a powerful message of health awareness and spiritual renewal, inspiring attendees to take charge of their well-being while trusting in God’s guidance.
“If you are 40 plus, make sure you are checking your prostate, you hear me? If you are 40 upwards, make sure you are checking your prostate. Check your prostate at least every three or six months,” Archbishop Duncan-Williams said emphatically during the service. His words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom nodded in agreement and pledged to take action.
Prostate cancer, he noted, remains one of the leading causes of death among black men, largely due to late detection and a lack of regular health screening. The Archbishop’s candid remarks underscored the importance of breaking societal stigmas around discussing men’s health and ensuring that awareness about this critical issue reaches as many people as possible.
Drawing from his own experience, the Archbishop highlighted the life-saving impact of early intervention. “If I didn’t do the check I did at the time I did it, I wouldn’t be standing on my feet, I wouldn’t be here,” he stated. He credited the timely medical attention he received for preserving his life, and he encouraged others to follow suit. “Cut it at the right time. The enemy has an agenda, and it was hiding.”
Archbishop Duncan-Williams also assured the congregation of practical support for those needing guidance on where to seek medical help. “I know some places that I can recommend to you too, and they can help you and save your life. They saved my life. There are people standing here, I recommended them, and they saved their lives,” he shared. This gesture of offering referrals demonstrated his commitment to not only raising awareness but also providing tangible solutions to those facing health challenges.
The Archbishop’s message was not only a call to physical action but also a spiritual reminder of the divine role in preserving life. As he spoke, his words carried a dual purpose: to inspire faith in God’s protection and to urge individuals to take personal responsibility for their health. This combination of spiritual guidance and practical advice reflected the holistic approach that has defined his ministry.
The significance of this sermon extended beyond the Action Chapel congregation. By sharing his experience with prostate cancer and encouraging early detection, Archbishop Duncan-Williams contributed to a broader conversation about men’s health in Ghana and beyond. His influence as a spiritual leader amplified the urgency of this message, potentially saving countless lives through increased awareness and proactive health measures.
The atmosphere during the all-night service was one of reflection and renewal as congregants prepared to enter the New Year. While the sermon touched on various aspects of faith and resilience, the emphasis on health awareness stood out as a timely and impactful message. The Archbishop’s transparency about his journey encouraged members of the congregation to confront their own health fears and seek the help they might need.
For many, the Archbishop’s testimony served as a wake-up call. In a culture where conversations about men’s health are often shrouded in silence or shame, his openness broke barriers and paved the way for others to follow. The importance of early detection and regular check-ups became a central theme of the evening, leaving a lasting impression on those in attendance.
The message also highlighted the intersection between health and spirituality. Archbishop Duncan-Williams reminded his congregation that taking care of one’s body is not separate from living a life of faith but rather an integral part of it. “Your body is the temple of God,” he reminded them, emphasizing the importance of maintaining both physical and spiritual well-being.
As the clock struck midnight and the congregation celebrated the arrival of 2025, the Archbishop’s message lingered in the minds of many. It was a sermon that not only marked the transition into a new year but also served as a call to action—a reminder to prioritize health, embrace faith, and approach life with a renewed sense of purpose.
Archbishop Duncan-Williams’ influence extends far beyond the walls of Action Chapel. As a prominent spiritual leader, his words carry weight, and his willingness to address sensitive topics like prostate health sets an example for others in positions of leadership. By using his platform to promote awareness, he has contributed significantly to breaking down barriers and encouraging open dialogue about men’s health.
The impact of his sermon will likely extend into the months and years ahead as those who heard his message share it with others. His testimony of early detection and successful treatment stands as a beacon of hope, reminding men everywhere that taking charge of their health can make all the difference.
As 2025 begins, Archbishop Duncan-Williams’ message serves as a powerful reminder that health and faith go hand in hand. By advocating for regular prostate check-ups and offering support to those in need, he has set a precedent for how spiritual leaders can contribute to societal well-being. His sermon was not just a message for the New Year but a call to action that could save countless lives.
