Chiefs Are Significant Agents in National Development web

Chiefs Are Significant Agents in National Development – Odeefo Amoakwa Buadu III Avers

The President of the Central Regional House of Chiefs, Odeefo Amoakwa Buadu, has underscored the crucial role of traditional leaders in national development.

Odeefo Amoakwa Buadu, who is also the Paramount Chief of the Breman Traditional Area, made this statement today at the ongoing National Development Conference 2023 at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh when he delivered fraternal greetings on behalf of the President of the National House of Chiefs.

In his address, the revered traditional ruler expressed that he deems his participation in the historic conference a great honour and commended The Church of Pentecost for strengthening the relationship between the Church and the Chieftaincy institution through various initiatives, including the introduction of the Chieftaincy Ministry.

He emphasised that chiefs play a significant role as development agents, mediating between people in power and their subordinates. Therefore, he called on the government, the Church, and other development stakeholders not to sideline the chiefs but to regard traditional rulers as development partners.

The National Development Conference 2023 was graced by the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, along with many dignitaries, including former presidents John Agyekum Kufour, John Dramani Mahama, and many others.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Put Ghana First for National Development web

Put Ghana First for National Development – Speaker of Parliament Urges National Leaders

Right Honourable Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament in Ghana, has called on national leaders and stakeholders in the development of the nation to prioritise Ghana’s interests above all else and work together without disparity.

“I strongly believe that Ghana can thrive again with our unwavering commitment and dedication to putting the nation first in all our endeavours. This confidence can pave the way for renewed commitment, ethical and moral leadership that fosters trust and confidence among citizens,” he asserted.

The Speaker of Parliament delivered this admonition on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, during the inaugural National Development Conference (NADEC) 2023, held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) in Gomoa Fetteh, near Kasoa.

Speaking on the theme, “Moral Vision and National Development: The Role of Ghana’s Politician,” he emphasised that the interplay between morality, the church, and politics plays a crucial role in national development.

“The state and the church are both morally obligated to maintain a harmonious relationship and equilibrium that holds nations together. The convergence of moral vision, national development, and the conduct of leadership, particularly political leadership, are vital for Ghana’s development,” he stated.

He urged political leaders and other key stakeholders to change their hearts, minds, and attitudes toward ensuring national development.

The Speaker emphasised that the nation’s development cannot be solely the government’s responsibility. “We all need to work together on this, particularly the state and the church,” he added.

He, therefore, urged all citizens and stakeholders involved in Ghana’s development to uphold principles of openness, transparency, accountability, and good governance.

Hon, Bagbin also stressed the significance of character in effective leadership, stating, “Good character builds trust. Without trust, people cannot follow a leader; without followers, leadership cannot exist.”

He further stated that Political leaders must be ready to be held accountable for their actions and inactions and conduct themselves in a manner that goes beyond reproach.

“The time has come for a sober reflection on how we conduct our national and international affairs. Our actions should be for the betterment of society, not just about power and might, but about God’s involvement in the affairs of men,” he said.

Hon. Bagbin again highlighted that every citizen is responsible for serving the nation with integrity and contributing to society’s progress and development.

He also commended The Church of Pentecost, on behalf of the Parliament of Ghana, for providing this important forum for national dialogue.

PENTECOST NEWS.

DEA Children's Ministry Organises Time With Mentors web

DEA Children’s Ministry Organises “Time With Mentors”

The Children’s Ministry of Darkuman English Assembly (DEA) in the Kaneshie Area of The Church of Pentecost held its maiden edition of Career Day, dubbed “Time with Mentors.”

Held under the theme “Discovering My Purpose,” the event aimed to educate and inspire children to make the right career choices, leading to a fulfilling life in the future.

The event occurred at the Children’s Auditorium of the Church on Sunday, June 2023, and had various professionals and role models from different career backgrounds fellowshipped with the children, inspiring them to aspire to greatness.

The Keynote Speaker for the event was Lawyer Isaac Fante-Boateng, the head of legal and Company Secretary at StarLife Assurance Limited. He encouraged the children to be assertive and seize opportunities as they grow, believing that God created everyone to solve a problem and that success depends on discovering and solving that problem – finding and accomplishing one’s purpose.

Elder Timothy Bentum, a Project Manager / Quantity Surveyor and one of the mentors for the event, emphasised that discovering one’s life purpose is a journey that requires guidance and direction.

He stressed the importance of a closer walk with God to uncover what truly matters, bringing a sense of fulfilment that surpasses all things.

The event also had professionals from various fields, including medicine, engineering, banking and finance, agriculture, media, legal, military & police service, research scientists, telecommunications, and port and harbours authority.

Deaconess Sheila Williams, the Children’s Ministry Leader of the Assembly, encouraged the children to take their spiritual lives seriously as it is crucial in fulfilling their life’s purpose.

She emphasised that their walk with God is a sure way to ascertain their purpose and how to accomplish it.

She also gave a presentation on “Self-Motivation,” “Believing in Yourself,” and the importance of learning and adapting to technology in every career.

A significant highlight of the event was the refreshing sight of the children and the Children’s Ministry Workers wearing the official outfits of various professions.

Report by DEA Media Team

The Church of Pentecost, Zoomlion Attend Waste Management Training In Thailand web

The Church of Pentecost, Zoomlion Attend Waste Management Training In Thailand

The Church of Pentecost (CoP) and Zoomlion Ghana Limited participated in a waste management training event in Thailand, hosted by the Wongpanit Company Ltd.

The training, held from July 3 to July 16, 2023, was under the theme “Wasteology: Urban Mining Business and Recycling.”

Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church, nominated Apostles Samuel Gakpetor (National Coordinator, NDLDC, which also oversees the Environmental Care Campaign) and Samuel Edzii Davidson (Executive Member, NDLDC) to represent the CoP at the event.

Wongpanit Company Ltd., led by President Dr. Somthai Wongchareon, aims to establish a Circular Economy, recycling all generated waste for reuse.

Starting with a humble capital of 1,000 baht in 1974 (approx. GHS 350), the company now boasts over 2,300 franchises across Thailand, recycling approximately 1.5 million tonnes of waste annually. Their innovative machines and equipment process waste, transforming it into valuable products sold to manufacturers in Thailand at competitive prices.

Dr. Wongchareon, known as the ‘King of Recycling,’ firmly believes that Waste is Gold and envisions a world without waste.

The training focused on recycling various materials such as plastic, paper, glass, metal, electronic waste, and refuse-derived fuel (RDF). While Wongpanit primarily concentrates on these materials, they also recycle organic waste into compost and fertiliser.

Zoomlion Ghana Limited, renowned as the Waste Management giants in Ghana and Africa, aims to collaborate with Wongpanit to implement their successful model in Ghana.

The company has already set up recycling infrastructure for composting and plastic recycling across the country, with plants in Accra, Kumasi, and all 16 regions of Ghana. However, these facilities mainly focus on compost and plastic waste.

Integrating Wongpanit’s model will accelerate Ghana’s transition to a Circular Economy, Green Economy, and Bio Economy, leading to positive social, economic, and environmental impacts.

For The Church of Pentecost, this training bolsters the Church’s Environmental Care Campaign and facilitates the “Possessing the Nations” agenda. Additionally, the collaboration with Zoomlion presents potential job opportunities for interested members of the Church.

Apostle Gakpetor said that the CoP team will continue working with Zoomlion Ghana Limited to fully implement the Wongpanit model in Ghana, solidifying the CoP’s position as key partners in the business model.

He also expressed profound gratitude to the Chairman, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, on the team’s behalf, for the opportunity to attend the training, as well as the Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group of Companies, Elder Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyapong, for extending the invitation and covering their travel expenses.

PENTECOST NEWS

PIWC-West Hills Mission House Dedicated web

PIWC-West Hills Mission House Dedicated

The official residence of the Resident Minister for the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), West Hills, was recently dedicated by the Kasoa Area Head of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle James K. Asare.

The beautiful five-bedroom house was dedicated during a special service held on Sunday, July 16, 2023. Apostle Asare, who officiated the service, was assisted by the Resident Minister, Pastor Phillip Pascal Asiedu.

Exhorting the gathering on the theme “Expectations,” Apostle Asare emphasised the importance of being mindful of the expectations from God, the appointing authority, the people they serve, and their own personal expectations in fulfilling the purpose of their calling.

He urged everyone to be devoted to the work of God, which often requires sacrifices and ultimately yields fruitful results, as evident in the completion of the mission house project.

Apostle Asare commended the Resident Minister and the entire Church for their tremendous sacrifices and efforts that led to the successful completion of the project in a remarkably short period.

Before the construction of this mission house, PIWC-West Hills had been renting accommodation for its resident ministers since its establishment in 2017. The dedication of the new residence, therefore, marks a significant milestone for the congregation.

Pastor Philip Pascal Asiedu, on behalf of the Church, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Area Head for the immense support received from the Area, former Area Heads, and Pastor Percy A. Danquah, the immediate-past resident minister, who initiated the project.

He also extended thanks to Kokrobite District for their contributions to the realisation of the mission house.

Among the distinguished guests present at the ceremony were Apostle Ekow Badu Wood (Former Area Head, now retired), Apostle A. K Miah (Retired), members of the Kasoa Area pastorate and their wives, as well as officers and members of PIWC-West Hills.

Report by PIWC-West Hills Media Team

Foundation Stone For Macedonia Assembly Church Building Laid web

Foundation Stone For Macedonia Assembly Church Building Laid

Prophet Samuel Tetteh Doku, the New Tafo Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, on Sunday, July 16, 2023, laid the foundation stone for the new church building project of the Macedonia Assembly in the Yennyawoso District of the Church.

The Area Head was ably assisted by the District Minister, Pastor Charles Oduro, and some ministers in the Area.

In a sermonette, Pastor Titus Oni Kwarteng of Bonwire District spoke on the topic: “God Never Passes Away,” with Psalm 102:25, Isaiah 40:28 and Hebrews 13:8 as his scriptural references.

He highlighted that unlike humans and material things that are short-lived, God is immortal and incorruptible. He, therefore, stressed the need for Christians to wholly put their trust in God and build their lives upon Him for He alone is the solid foundation to help them to withstand the vicissitudes of life.

Pastor Oni Kwarteng also advised Christians to acknowledge the supremacy of God, emphasising the need for them to revere and obey Him at all times.

Elder Daniel Aboagye Kyei (Presiding Elder), the District Executive Committee Members, and a  cross-section of officers and members were present to witness this momentous occasion.

Report by Emmanuel Nana Nsiah

PENSA-UCC Organises WEB

PENSA-UCC Organises “Church Media Conference”

In line with the theme of The Church of Pentecost for this year, the University of Cape Coast (UCC) chapter of the Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA) has organised the “Church Media Conference” to equip members on how to propagate the gospel across the various digital platforms.

The conference, which was initiated by the Editorial Department, was held on the Saturday, July 8, 2023 at the Sasakawa Conference Room.

Speakers for the conference were Deacon Michael Gariba (Former PENSA-UCC Editor Librarian), Brother Joseph Attoh (Social Media Officer, The Church of Pentecost-Headquarters), Brother Blay Brako (Immediate-past Media Director, GHAMSU-UCC), Brother Silas Dadzie, Sister Emmanuella Kwafo and Brother Owusu.

The topics treated at the event included: The Media Person and Spirituality, The COP Media Ministry in View, Basics of Photography, Creation of Google Forms, Facebook Livestreaming with Mobile Phones and Live Projection in Church using Easy Worship.

Pastor Frank Akonnor, the PENSA-UCC Resident Campus Minister, who also took part in the event, admonished all participants to use the skills acquired to vigorously spread the gospel of Jesus Christ in order to take over the campuses and the world for Christ.

Also in attendance were Elder Maxwell Asare Tei, (President, PENSA-UCC), Brother Paul Owusu (Vice President), Brother Jephthah Darko (Editor Librarian) and Sister Bridget Asamoah (Deputy Editor Librarian)

In all, 75 people, including non-PENSA members, took part in the event .

Report by PENSA-UCC Editorial Team

Be Patriotic Citizens & Contribute To National Development – Apostle Kumi-Larbi To Ghanaians web

Be Patriotic Citizens & Contribute To National Development – Apostle Kumi-Larbi To Ghanaians

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, has charged Ghanaians, particularly those in positions of authority, to be patriotic and contribute to national development and nation-building.

According to the General Secretary, until citizens love and cherish the nation, the country could not be set on the path of progress and prosperity.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi made this admonition on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at a service held at the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Atomic. The service had in attendance the national leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who had joined the Church to thank God for the first anniversary of their appointments.

Delivering a sermon on the topic “Patriotism,” Apostle Kumi-Larbi explained that a patriotic citizen is one who loves, supports, and defends their fatherland, that is, their country of nativity or residence.

“A patriotic citizen is one who is willing to give all their resources for the benefit of the nation. Patriotic citizens stand as father-figures to defend the territorial sovereignty and integrity of the nation,” he said.

Drawing from the story of the centurion in Luke 7:1-10, Apostle Kumi-Larbi noted that from the glowing testimony the Jewish elders gave about the centurion, it is evident that the man possessed some fine character traits that those in authority ought to emulate to make more impact through public service.

He emphasised that the centurion, though a man in a position of authority and power, displayed genuine care for his ailing servant.

The General Secretary observed that, in most cases, people with power, influence, and wealth pay little or no attention to their servants at their homes, offices, and others around them who assist them in carrying out their duties.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi, therefore, urged Ghanaians to emulate the noteworthy character of the centurion by demonstrating empathy, sympathy, and humility towards others in their daily lives.

The General Secretary also pointed out that the centurion’s contribution to the development of the community by putting up a synagogue for the Jewish people.

He said that, likewise, public officials should use the resources at their disposal to address societal issues and promote the welfare of the vulnerable.

“Use the little resources you have to fix the problems of the society,” he urged.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi also charged people in authority to use their position to protect and help those under them and not for personal gains.

Highlighting the responsibilities of patriotic citizens, Apostle Kumi-Larbi stressed the need to respect and submit to governing authorities (Romans 13:1-7), avoid disrespectful behavior towards leaders (Numbers 12:1-15), intercede in prayer for the nation (Jeremiah 29:7, 1 Timothy 2:1-3), and contribute to national development through the payment of taxes (Romans 13:7).

He called upon the Christian community to prioritise praying for the welfare, progress, and development of the nation and to pray for leaders to make wise decisions for the nation’s benefit.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi also addressed unpatriotic behaviours such as bribery, embezzlement, fraud, favouritism, and other forms of corruption, urging citizens to reject such practices and uphold integrity in all aspects of life.

Concluding his message, the General Secretary underscored the collective responsibility of every citizen to contribute to the nation’s development in order to create a Ghana that evokes pride in all Ghanaians.

PENTECOST NEWS

General Secretary Commissions Kwahu Oda Roman Catholic School web

General Secretary Commissions Kwahu Oda Roman Catholic School

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, has commissioned and dedicated the newly-constructed Kwahu Oda Roman Catholic Junior High School in the Nkawkaw Area of the Church.

The commissioning ceremony occurred on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at the Roman Catholic School Park in Kwahu Oda, Eastern Region, Ghana.

The impressive building, valued at GHS1,477,138.30, consists of three classrooms (Basic 7-9), a Headteacher’s office, a Teachers’ room, a Computer laboratory, an ICT Centre, a Library, a Kindergarten block, Washrooms and a drilled borehole facility.

This remarkable project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Kwahu Oda Development Committee, led by Elder Dr Emmanuel Kwame Obeng, a member of The Church of Pentecost, United States of America, and Founder/President of Rural Communities Development International Inc. (RCDII), along with his wife, Dr Agnes Obeng, and other dedicated community members from both local and international locations.

Notable contributors to the project include the Board of Trustees of Rural Communities International Development International Inc (RCDII), Mr Franklin Kwame Asante (Allclean Limited), Mr Emmanuel Kwaku Ayimadu, Apostle John Obeng Kesse (Suame Area Head, The Church of Pentecost), Nana Kojo Asiamah, Kofi Agyakwa, Charles Kwabena Asiama, Elder Abraham Asante-Obeng (Headmaster, Pentecost Preparatory School Ashiaman), Fred Otchere Jan, Ohenaba Appah-Dankyi, Kwaku Addo Benson, James Okyere, Cecilia Okyere, Lydia Ahenkorah, Ama Nkansah, Hannah Dansoah, Afua Peprah, Lydia Obeng Siaw, Kwasi Obeng, and Augustina Osei.

Additionally, Patrick Mensah, Ama Serwaa Baah, Rev. Dr Samuel & Mrs Ellen Asante, Adwoa Yeboah, Bishop Asiama Okyere, Lydia Gyemfa Okyere, Alex Omari Otchere, Vida Antwiwaa Okyere, Vero Konadu Okyere, William Siaw Otchere, Rosemary Effah, and Ante Abena Serwah contributed to the project.

During his speech, Dr Obeng shared his experience overcoming poverty as a barrier to his educational dreams.

Despite financial constraints, he encouraged parents to go the extra mile in supporting their children’s educational goals.

Addressing the students, he emphasised the importance of diligence in their studies and urged them to strive for excellence, saying, “Go the extra mile.”

Nana Amakye Appah II, the Kwahu Oda Chief, called on community members to continue selflessly supporting the town’s development through similar projects that improve the quality of life for all.

Honourable Joseph Frimpong, Member of Parliament for Nkawkaw, expressed gratitude to Dr Obeng, RCDII, and all the project contributors on behalf of the government.

He reminded the audience that their destinies lay in their hands and encouraged the youth to embrace the challenge of studying diligently. He also urged parents to provide the necessary amenities for a conducive learning environment.

Honourable Lawyer Yaw Owusu Addo, the Municipal Chief Executive of Kwahu West, emphasised that national development requires its citizens’ collective support and involvement to benefit the entire community.

Mrs Ivy Asantewaa Owusu, Eastern Regional Director of Education, commended the Kwahu Oda Development Committee for their thoughtful financial and educational investment in the community. She urged teachers to adapt to new technological teaching methods to enhance student learning.

The Kwahu Oda Roman Catholic School, established in 1939, had faced neglect and dilapidation due to a lack of regular maintenance. This intervention became necessary after media reports highlighted its deteriorating condition.

The members of the Kwahu Oda Development Committee are Dr Emmanuel Kwame Obeng (Chairman), Mr Franklin Kwame Asante (Project Manager), Elder Abraham Asante Obeng (Secretary/Protocol Officer), Apostle John Obeng Kesse (Planning Committee Chairman/Executive Member), Mr Emmanuel Kwaku Anyimadu (Financial Chairman), and Nana Kodjo Asiamah (Executive Member).

The commissioning ceremony was well attended by chiefs, clergy, members of the educational directorate, teachers, students, and community members within and outside the Kwahu Municipality.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Downtown Assembly Church Building Dedicated WEB

Downtown Assembly Church Building Dedicated

The newly-constructed church building of the Downtown Assembly in the Downtown District of The Church of Pentecost was dedicated on Sunday, July 9, 2023, to the glory of God.

Apostle Dr. Benjamin Ali, the Area Head for the Downtown-Ofaakor Area of the Church, dedicated the church building with assistance from Pastor Andrews Owusu (Downtown District Minister), Pastor Kwasi Afoakwah (Area Secretary), and some ministers in the Area.

The edifice, which began construction in 2009, cost the church GHS 817,000.00. It is also worth noting that Honorable Mavis Hawa Koomson, the Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, supported the project with GHS 25,000.00.

Delivering a brief sermon on the topic, “The Building Speaks,” with key scriptures from Ecclesiastes 9:10 and Ephesians 2:10, Apostle Samuel Otu-Appiah encouraged the members to be partakers in building God’s church.

“The building speaks of both the past and the present; therefore, invest in His church building,” he stated.

Gracing the occasion were Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson and Hon. Anita Obo Amissah (Municipal Chief Executive for Awutu Senya East) and their entourage.

Present also were Mrs. Mary Ali (wife of the Downtown-Ofaakor Area Head), Mrs. Gifty Dansoah Appiah (wife of the Winneba Area Head), Mrs. Faustina Owusu (wife of the Downtown District), as well as some ministers’ wives, and officers in and outside the Area.

PENTECOST NEWS.