Founder of Cedar Impact Miracle Center, Apostle General Ray Michael, has stated that church instrumentalists deserve to be compensated, particularly when they are required to provide regular services and are unable to pursue other employment. Speaking on Metro TV’s Good Afternoon Ghana on Thursday, January 8, 2026, the outspoken cleric refuted suggestions that he opposes paying musicians in church, stressing that his earlier remarks had been misinterpreted.
“I never said don’t pay them,” he stated.
“If they are working full-time for a church, they should be paid,” he explained.
According to him, it would be unfair to demand constant availability from instrumentalists without compensation.
Apostle Ray Michael questioned why church instrumentalists should not be compensated when they are required to serve consistently throughout the week. “If you expect someone to be present Monday through Friday, he cannot take up another job as a police officer or run a barbering shop. Pastors pay themselves, so why shouldn’t he be paid too?” he asked. He clarified, however, that his earlier remarks were aimed at instrumentalists who prioritise charging fees without investing in improving their craft.
“My comments were directed at those who refuse to learn and only focus on demanding payment,” he explained, noting that his position has often been misrepresented on social media.
He maintained that musicians who serve occasionally or are invited for specific programs are different from those who are effectively staff of a church. In such cases, he said, payment is justified.
“If they are working full-time for a church, yes, they should be paid,” he repeated.
The Apostle also clarified that he does not draw a salary from his church.
“I don’t take a dime from the church. People gift me,” he disclosed.
However, he stressed that this personal choice should not be used to deny others their livelihood.
Source: Bernard Ralph Adams
