Economic Inequalities, Social Media Driving Mental Health Crisis Among Youth — Dr Tutu-Danquah web

Economic Inequalities, Social Media Driving Mental Health Crisis Among Youth — Dr Tutu-Danquah

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

A Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana, Dr Cecilia Tutu-Danquah, has cited economic disparities and the rapid rise of social media as key factors fuelling the surge in mental health challenges among young people.

In a presentation on the topic, “Mental Health: Optimising Your Mental Health as a Young Person,” at the 2026 PENSA Ghana Conference at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Dr Tutu-Danquah observed that the widespread use of social media since the mid-2000s has become a defining trend with potentially harmful consequences for adolescent and youth mental health, despite some studies suggesting mixed or occasionally positive effects.

According to her, the pressures linked to constant online engagement, comparison, and exposure to curated lifestyles often heighten stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy among young people.

She further pointed to academic and work-related demands, family conflicts, and socio-economic inequalities as additional stressors undermining the mental wellbeing of the youth.

Expounding on the dimensions of mental health — emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing — she explained that imbalances in these areas can significantly affect overall development and productivity.

Dr Tutu-Danquah urged young people to moderate their social media use and embrace healthier lifestyle choices, stressing that these measures are vital for safeguarding and sustaining good mental health.

Her presentation formed part of broader discussions at the conference aimed at equipping young Christians with practical tools to navigate contemporary societal challenges while maintaining holistic wellbeing.

Pent News

Any Gospel That Describes Jesus As Merely Human Is False – Apostle Fianko-Larbi Asserts web

Any Gospel That Describes Jesus As Merely Human Is False – Apostle Fianko-Larbi Asserts

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

The Resident Minister of Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Sakumono, Apostle Seth Fianko-Larbi, has declared that Jesus Christ is the sure foundation of the Gospel because He conquered death, making Him the author of faith. Therefore, any Gospel that portrays Jesus as merely human and not divine is a false Gospel.

According to him, the Good News is God’s remedy for healing the world of sin and granting salvation. He urged believers to prioritise preaching this message of hope to bring conviction and transformation.

Apostle Fianko-Larbi explained that God’s method for spreading the Gospel globally is through human beings, as society cannot hear the message unless it is preached, saying, “Angels are not permitted to preach in this realm; that responsibility lies with man.”

Speaking on the topic, “The Message of the Gospel” during the Day Three of the 2026 PENSA Ghana Conference at the KNUST Campus in Kumasi, he noted that societal transformation begins with the renewal of the human heart—a mysterious work of the Holy Spirit.

He stressed that prayer is essential for the Gospel to take root: “If you preach the Gospel without prayer, the Word cannot become flesh because the Spirit incubates the Gospel to become flesh.”

He further explained that those who accept the Gospel walk in love and joy, finding purpose despite external pressures because Christ becomes their hope of glory. Preaching the Good News, he said, produces faith, which leads to righteousness and alignment with Christ.

“Anyone marked by the Holy Spirit is marked by a divine SIM card. What connects you to the new creation is the deposit of the Holy Spirit, which comes from the hope of the Gospel,” he remarked.

Apostle Seth Fianko-Larbi warned against distorted teachings, asserting that the Gospel is centred on Christ alone. Any message that reduces Jesus to a mere human or promotes salvation through personal effort is false.

He defined the Gospel as: “Jesus Christ, the eternal Word of God, the Creator, born of a virgin, who lived sinlessly for 33 years, died on the Cross to pay for humanity’s sin, and rose on the third day to prove that He is Life and gives Life.” Those who place faith in Him receive forgiveness, the Holy Spirit, and become heirs of the hope of glory.

Pent News

Channel Your Passion For Sports, Politics Into Evangelism – Pastor Ebo Quaye Advises Youth web

Pastor Ebo Quaye Urges Youth To Channel Same Passion For Sports And Politics Into Evangelism

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

The Resident Minister of PENSA at KNUST Campus, Pastor Jonathan Ebo Quaye, has issued a passionate call to Christian youth to redirect the same zeal they exhibit in supporting football teams and political parties towards evangelism.

Speaking on Day Three of the 2026 PENSA Ghana Conference at KNUST, Pastor Quaye stressed that such commitment could significantly advance efforts to rescue souls and uphold Kingdom values. He cited World Health Organization statistics, revealing that 63.9 million people die annually, 5.2 million monthly, 1.2 million weekly, and over 170,000 daily, many without knowing their eternal fate. Against this backdrop, he urged young Christians to actively preach the Gospel and engage in consistent follow-up to ensure lasting transformation.

Addressing the theme, “Effective Witnessing and Discipleship Strategies: The Reach-Out Model” inspired by Jude 23, Pastor Quaye explained that evangelism must go beyond mere announcements to personal engagement.

He introduced the “Five-Finger Gospel Illustration” as a practical tool: the thumb represents the soul-winner, while the four fingers signify praying for souls, preaching, following up, and discipling converts.

He emphasised that consistent follow-up is vital to prevent spiritual drift and nurture new believers.

Pastor Quaye, who is also an Associate Member of the Ghana Institute of Architects, encouraged participants to set clear outreach goals, maintain records, and welcome feedback to improve evangelistic efforts.

 “The Gospel is not good news to those who have not heard it,” he stated, underscoring the urgency of spreading the message and ensuring effective discipleship.

Pent News

Stop Spiritualising Mental Health Challenges – Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah Urges Youth web

Stop Spiritualising Mental Health Challenges – Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah Urges Youth

by with No Comment Church NewsTop Stories

The Nkawkaw Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Philip Osei-Korsah, has urged Ghanaian youth to refrain from spiritualising mental health issues and instead seek professional counselling for a balanced and fulfilling life.

Speaking on the topic, “Mental Health Among Young People” during the 2026 PENSA Ghana Conference at KNUST on Saturday, January 3, 2025, Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah stressed that while prayer remains essential, maintaining sound mental health requires practical knowledge to manage stress, anxiety and difficult emotions.

He warned that failure to address mental health concerns can lead to severe consequences affecting health, relationships, careers and overall quality of life. Citing World Health Organization statistics, he noted a 6.34 per cent prevalence of mental health challenges among those aged 20 to 29, with studies showing that eight per cent of tertiary students suffer depression.

Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah highlighted rising cases of depression, anxiety, substance abuse and suicidal behaviour among young people. He further identified gambling and betting as major contributors, revealing that 43.6 per cent of young gamblers experience depression, while 68.6 per cent suffer anxiety.

Debunking myths around drug use for academic performance, he outlined key causes of mental health challenges, including poor stress management, low self-esteem, identity struggles, toxic parenting, neglect, domestic violence, academic pressure and unhealthy social media competition.

He cautioned against the pressure to appear strong online, stating: “Strength is not the absence of struggle, but the courage to speak, seek support and heal.” 

Quoting 1 Peter 5:7, he encouraged believers to cast their cares on God while emphasising the importance of devotion and professional help.

Pent News

Be Different To Unleash God’s Power – Prof. Mawutor To Christians web

Be Different To Unleash God’s Power – Prof. Mawutor To Christians

by with No Comment Church NewsTop Stories

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), Prof. Kwaku Mensah Mawutor, has challenged Christians, particularly young people, to live distinctively in order to manifest the power of God in an increasingly secular world.

Addressing participants at the ongoing PENSA Ghana Conference at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), under the topic, “Living Spiritually in the Secular Environment, Prof. Mawutor told believers to be willing to stand out in character, values and conduct if they are to experience the omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent nature of God.

According to him, spiritual distinction is not about conformity to worldly standards but about embracing one’s God-given uniqueness.

“To unleash the power of God, you must be different,” he stated, adding that a believer’s uniqueness, when aligned with God’s purpose, has the capacity to transform lives and destinies.

Prof. Mawutor drew biblical examples from the lives of David and Joseph, describing them as individuals who raised the banner of God despite enduring seasons of trials and preparation.

He noted that David’s journey from shepherd boy to king, and Joseph’s rise from prison to the palace, were results of faithfulness, discipline and unwavering trust in God through the process.

He encouraged participants to remain steadfast, stressing that uniqueness comes with a cost. “Your uniqueness will require patience and endurance,” he said, urging young Christians not to compromise their faith in the face of societal pressure.

The 4-day PENSA Ghana Conference is under the theme, The Church Unleashed to Transform Society through The Gospel and the Power of the Holy Spirit.

Pent News

Strongest Evidence Of The Risen Christ Is Transformed Lives web

Strongest Evidence Of The Risen Christ Is Transformed Lives — Apostle Swanzy

by with No Comment Church NewsTop Stories

The Sunyani Area Head and Executive Council member of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Abraham Swanzy, has asserted that the most compelling proof of Christ’s resurrection is not merely the empty tomb but the transformation of lives across the world.

Speaking at the 2026 PENSA Ghana Gospel and Power Conference (PGC26) on Saturday, January 3, at the Tamale Centre (UDS Auditorium), Apostle Swanzy proclaimed: “The strongest evidence of the risen Christ is not only the empty tomb but transformed lives.” 

He explained that while the tomb remains in one location, transformed lives are visible everywhere, serving as living testimonies of Christ’s power.

Apostle Swanzy, who spoke on the topic, “The Message of the Gospel,” emphasised that the Gospel is not mere advice but the power of God for salvation. Defining the term, he noted that the Gospel — euangelion or “good news” — announces God’s decisive act through Jesus Christ to redeem humanity.

He highlighted the necessity of the incarnation, stating that only a fully human Saviour could represent mankind, and only a fully divine Saviour could atone for sin. Jesus, he said, embodies both, making Him the perfect mediator.

The conference explored the transformative nature of the Gospel. Apostle Swanzy stressed that the Gospel convicts, restores, and liberates, citing the Samaritan woman’s encounter with Jesus as a model of personal and communal transformation.

Referencing Acts and Colossians, he outlined the biblical pattern of change through the proclaimed Gospel, the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, and the resulting renewal of individuals and societies. He warned that in an age of secularism and moral confusion, the Church must remain “unleashed” — Spirit-empowered to proclaim truth with clarity and conviction.

Apostle Swanzy urged believers to uphold the purity of the Gospel while communicating it in culturally relevant ways, combining biblical truth with authentic Christian living. He concluded with a reminder of the Gospel’s eschatological hope: Christ’s promised return to bring salvation to those who await Him.

“The Gospel is God’s power to save, heal, and renew,” he declared, charging Christians to believe it, live it, and boldly share it with a world desperate for hope.

Report by Lawrence Nana Kwame Asiamah, Youth Ministry Publicity

Apostle Dr Markin Challenges Youth To Demonstrate The Power Of The Holy Spirit web

Apostle Dr Markin Challenges Youth To Demonstrate The Power Of The Holy Spirit

by with No Comment Church NewsTop Stories

Apostle Dr Jimmy Markin, Cape Coast Area Head, has urged participants at the 2026 PENSA Ghana Gospel and Power Conference at PCC Centre to boldly harness the Holy Spirit’s power in evangelism, calling on them to fulfil the Great Commission across communities and nations.

At the spiritually charged session, he preached powerfully on the topic “Demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit in evangelism” drawing from 1 Corinthians 2:4-5, Romans 15:18-20, and 1 Thessalonians 1:5. Apostle Dr Markin emphasised that the Christian community is an army deployed to fulfil the Great Commission – the mandate of Christ to rescue souls, make disciples, and proclaim the Gospel to all nations, regardless of race or background.

Apostle Dr Markin highlighted that effective evangelism is not merely about human knowledge but requires the demonstration of God’s power. “The Holy Spirit empowers believers to carry out their divine assignment and makes the Gospel accessible to all,” he stated. Despite geographical, social, and economic challenges, Christians can advance the Kingdom because God equips His soldiers with spiritual authority.

He explained that the Holy Spirit works within believers according to a divine pattern. God calls individuals as His treasured possession and seals them with His Spirit, marking them as His own (2 Corinthians 1:21-23; Ephesians 1:13-14). This regeneration and baptism in the Holy Spirit (John 20:21-22; 1 Corinthians 12:13) equips believers for service, imparting the power necessary for effective ministry (1 John 2:20,27).

Apostle Markin noted that every believer has access to the Spirit’s enabling power, though the measure received depends on one’s desire and pursuit of God. Jesus, uniquely, received the Spirit without measure (Matthew 3:11; Mark 1:8; Acts 1:5). The baptism in the Spirit brings revival, attracts attention to the Gospel, and serves as a sign to the unbeliever.

He outlined practical steps for walking in the Spirit: consistent prayer, fasting, holiness, obedience, and sensitivity to God’s promptings. Demonstrating the Spirit involves yielding to His guidance, speaking in tongues (Isaiah 28:11-12), and cultivating a life of continual infilling. The manifestation of the Spirit’s power depends on one’s willingness to surrender and align fully with God’s will (Acts 10:38; Luke 4:1-14,18).

Concluding, Apostle Markin urged attendees to remember that the Holy Spirit, already within them, is the source of authority and effectiveness in evangelism. Walking in the Spirit is not a one-time event but a lifelong pursuit of obedience, prayer, and sensitivity to His leading.

Pent News

Web

Fasting, Prayer Key To Transforming Society — Apostle Gyau Obuobi Declares At PENSA Ghana Conference

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With GsTop Stories

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, has entreated Christians to embrace fasting and fervent prayer as a powerful response to the growing social vices confronting society.

Speaking at the ongoing Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA) Ghana Conference at the University of Cape Coast, Apostle Obuobi, who preached on the theme: “Transforming Society through the Power of Fasting and Prayer,” lamented what he described as a “perverse world” characterised by rising sexual immorality, drug abuse, corruption, and increasing attacks on Christianity.

He noted that the gravity of these challenges demands more than mere rhetoric, urging believers to engage in deliberate fasting and consistent prayer to effect societal change.

Quoting Esther 4:16, Apostle Obuobi noted that prayer and fasting remain vital spiritual keys entrusted to the Church, saying, “We have a key in our hands, and that key is prayer and fasting. If we can fast and pray, then we will be able to change society.”

He referenced the early Church in Antioch, which fasted and prayed before experiencing divine direction and breakthrough, stressing that through prayer and fasting, strongholds can be torn down.

According to him, such spiritual discipline enables the Church to “bring down the Kingdom of God and enforce His will on earth.”

Apostle Obuobi further underscored the need for fervency and consistency in prayer, citing James 5:16, and called on believers to remain persistent in seeking God.

He explained that true societal transformation is only possible when the Church responds to God’s call for fervent and unwavering prayer.

Drawing from Jonah 3:10, he concluded that no level of corruption or moral depravity is beyond redemption, insisting that “if we rise in fasting and prayer, we can change society.”

Pent News

Transform Society Through web

Transform Society Through Prayer And Fasting – Mrs Agyekum Acheampong, Esq., Charges Youth

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

Mrs Vida Agyekum Acheampong, Esq., and Deaconess of Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) West Hills, has highlighted the transformative power of prayer and fasting as the key to societal change during the second day of the 2026 PENSA Ghana Gospel and Power Conference at the PPC Centre.

Drawing from both Scripture and historical examples, she noted that true transformation begins in the human heart, echoing Russian philosopher Nikolai Berdyaev’s observation that “the salvation of this human world lies nowhere else than in the human heart, in the human power to reflect, in human meekness and human responsibility.”

Citing the account of Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:37-39) and Proverbs 27:19, she highlighted that the state of the human heart determines the moral and spiritual health of society. Acheampong asserted that while governments and social institutions attempt to reform societies through policies, education, or economic programs, these efforts often fail to address the root of societal brokenness, which lies in human sin and the unseen spiritual forces influencing communities.

She categorised society into three groups: the unsaved, the saved, and the supposedly saved, referencing 2 Timothy 3:1-7 and Psalm 15 to describe their traits. Mrs Vida Acheampong stressed that societal transformation requires engaging all three groups, beginning with the saved, as spiritual growth is continuous (2 Corinthians 3:18). The influence of the supposedly saved, who may appear righteous but propagate error, was highlighted as particularly disruptive to society.

She noted that societal decay often stems from spiritual strongholds led by demonic forces, targeting families, governance, and cultural norms. She continued to stress that the weapons to overcome these forces are not worldly but spiritual, specifically prayer and fasting, which dismantle strongholds, shift spiritual atmospheres, and invite God’s kingdom on earth (2 Corinthians 10:4; Matthew 6:10; Mark 9:29). She cited historical revivals, including the Welsh Revival of 1904-1905 and the ministry of John Knox in Scotland, were as evidence that persistent prayer and fasting brings measurable societal transformation.

Mrs Vida Acheampong further connected spiritual intervention to leadership, asserting that praying for godly leaders shapes national destiny (Proverbs 29:2). Through proactive prayer and fasting, the church can influence political, social, and economic structures, creating an environment where justice, righteousness, and peace prevail.

Concluding with 2 Chronicles 7:14, she reminded believers that societal healing begins with humility, repentance, and a persistent pursuit of God’s face. Mrs Vida Acheampong issued a clarion call for the people of God to rise in prayer and fasting to usher in revival and lasting transformation, emphasising that the historic promise of the “Hundred Years Revival” awaits the obedience and intercession of God’s people.

Pent News

UCC Acting Vice-Chancellor Calls For Stronger Church–Academia Collaboration For National Progress web

UCC Acting Vice-Chancellor Calls For Stronger Church–Academia Collaboration For National Progress

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

The Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Professor Dennis Worlanyo Aheto, has called for a deeper partnership between the Church and academic institutions, describing it as vital to Ghana’s quest for sustainable development.

Speaking at the ongoing Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA) Conference on the UCC campus, Professor Aheto dismissed the notion of rivalry between the Church and universities, insisting they are “complementary forces” in shaping the nation’s future.

“The University sharpens the intellect, while the Church moulds character and values. Both are indispensable in producing well-rounded individuals,” he said.

Professor Aheto stressed that true national progress cannot be achieved through academic credentials alone. Instead, he argued, it requires graduates who combine intellectual excellence with strong moral and spiritual foundations.

“Together, we can produce graduates who are spiritually grounded, intellectually sound, emotionally stable, socially responsible, physically disciplined and financially prudent,” he declared.

He warned that Ghana’s development challenge lies not in the scarcity of certificates but in the shortage of holistic men and women whose ethics, emotions and work attitudes reflect sound principles.

Professor Aheto urged continuous engagement between faith-based organisations and academia to nurture a new generation of leaders capable of driving positive societal transformation.

Pent News