Renowned Ghanaian gospel singer Amy Newman has opened a vulnerable chapter of her life, revealing the painful lessons learned from trying to balance ministry with motherhood.
Speaking at the Convergence of Mothers event at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, the veteran musician addressed an audience of women with a heartfelt confession: ministry, when prioritized over parenting, can leave lasting scars, not just on oneself, but on one’s children.
Newman’s reflections served as a cautionary tale for mothers in ministry who often find themselves torn between spiritual duty and domestic responsibility. She urged them not to delegate parenting to others under the guise of divine service.
“In raising my children, I prayed to God saying, ‘God, you know I don’t have anyone. Who will teach me how to bring up these children?’ Some suggested I hire maids. I thought I had a ministry, so I would leave my children with maids and go out there. I tell you today, no matter what, take the children along,” she recalled.
Her experience, she explained, left gaps in her children’s growth, particularly those who had inherited her musical talent but missed out on mentorship.
“My children suffered because I thought I was doing God’s work. If you’re here and you’re doing God’s work, know that your children are part of the calling. Even if you’re going on stage to sing, bring them on stage. It’s not about making a show… My mistake was leaving the children behind. They had the talent, but I couldn’t groom them,” Newman admitted.
This realization didn’t come instantly. According to her, it was divine revelation that opened her eyes to the consequences of her earlier choices.
“God came to me and revealed the mistakes I made in raising my children… And I know if I hadn’t repented, I would have gone and answered for it. If you’re a mother, make sure your children follow you wherever you go. I am not ashamed to tell the world,” she said.
Despite the regret, Newman finds peace in knowing her children are thriving. All eight, she said, are doing well and have made her proud.
“God blessed me with eight children, and to God be the glory, they are all well-educated and doing well.”
Newman shared a humorous yet heartfelt moment about her daughter Hannah, a content creator with a personality and flair all her own.
“My daughter Hannah is a content creator. She took after me, but she’s overdone it. Sometimes I see how she dresses and I say, ‘Oh, my God! Help me.’ But I know the hand of God is upon her. And whatever God planned for her in ministry, she will fulfill it before Christ Jesus returns,” she said.
Amy Newman concluded her testimony with deep appreciation for her husband, whom she praised for his unwavering support throughout their family’s spiritual and personal journey.
“My husband is an angel. He has stood by me and the children. He is a pastor,” she revealed.
