Bishop Dag Heward-Mills, Founder of Lighthouse Chapel International (LCI), has paid tribute to veteran gospel musician Bernice Offei, describing her music as a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire generations.
Bernice Offei, who died on Saturday, September 12, aged 63, was remembered by the Bishop during a church service last Sunday.
In a video sighted by the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Bishop Heward-Mills recalled his personal relationship with the late musician, saying they were friends during their days at Achimota School and later lived in the same neighbourhood.
He said Bernice Offei was already singing at Achimota School in the 1970s, highlighting her long-standing commitment to gospel music.
As part of the tribute, a singer at the church ministered one of Bernice Offei’s songs before Bishop Heward-Mills delivered his sermon.
The Bishop subsequently encouraged the congregation to pay attention to the messages contained in the late musician’s songs and allow the lyrics to minister to their lives.
He said although Bernice Offei had passed away, her music and contribution to gospel music would continue to live on.
Bernice Offei established herself as a respected singer, songwriter and minister whose music appealed to audiences across generations.
Her notable songs include “Hold On,” “Life is Short,” “Kaa She Gbeyei,” “It’s By Grace,” “Nyame Kokroko” and “N’adom Ara Kwa.”
She released about six albums and recorded more than 40 songs during her career.
Her contribution to Ghanaian gospel music was recognised at the Ghana Music Awards in 2009, where she won Best Female Vocal Performance and Songwriter of the Year.
Through her music and ministry, Bernice Offei left behind a body of work that continues to form part of Ghana’s gospel music heritage.
