The Church of Pentecost Dedicates First Church Building for Chakali Community WEB

The Church of Pentecost Dedicates First Church Building for Chakali Community

It was a joyous occasion on Friday, June 16, 2023, when Apostle Daniel Nii Tetteh Tackie, the Wa Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, dedicated the Gurumbelle Assembly church building.

The building project was funded by the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Dansoman at a cost of GH¢101,000.00 and serves as the first church building of The Church of Pentecost for the Chakalis, an unreached people group in the Wa Area.

During the dedication ceremony, Overseer Alfred Obeng, the Bulenga District Minister, provided a brief history of the Assembly.

He narrated that Gurumbelle Assembly was established in 2015 by Pastor Gabriel Owusu Akyaw, the former Bulenga District Minister. The need for a church in Gurumbelle arose when Mr. Joseph Wusah Weaga, a member of the Church from Gurumbelle, discovered that The Church of Pentecost was not present in his hometown.

Together with one Mr. Jonathan, a teacher in the community, they approached the District Minister and organised a three-day mega rally, which resulted in 25 adult souls and 15 children being won for Christ. A total of 15 individuals underwent water baptism, and started the Church fellowshipping under a tree.

The enthusiastic members initially constructed a mud structure as their place of worship. However, it was destroyed during a heavy downpour, and they continued to struggle, gathering under the tree.

Apostle Emmanuel Agyei Kwafo, the National HUM Coordinator, heard about the zealous Chakali people during his visit to the Wa Area in 2019. He, along with Apostle Daniel Nii Tackie, paid them a visit and pledged to raise funds for a permanent place of worship for the Church.

Subsequently, Apostle Kwarfo reached out to PIWC-Dansoman, and they generously funded the project with Pastor Ebenezer Amartey Ahuakese, the Resident Minister of PIWC-Dansoman, leading the funding-raising efforts.

Upon completion, the chief and people of Gurumbelle expressed their joy through songs and dance, celebrating the remarkable edifice in their community.

Delivering a sermon titled “The Complete Temple,” at the historic event, Pastor Karim Awuni urged Christians to prioritise Christ and His teachings in all aspects of their lives.

Dedicating the building, Apostle Tackie expressed his gratitude to God for being present among the Chakalis, who hold a priority in the Church’s strategic vision (Vision 2023).

He also extended his appreciation to the Executive Council of the Church for their timely vision that has been a blessing to various segments of society, including the Chakalis.

Apostle Tackie further thanked Prophet E.K. Appiah (Rtd.) and Apostle Daniel Sey, the immediate-past and current Area Heads of Dansoman, respectively, for their dedication to missions. He also acknowledged Apostle Emmanuel Agyei Kwafo for the instrumental role he played in making this reality. 

The Wa Area Head also expressed his gratitude to Pastor Ebenezer Amartey Ahuakese, the Resident Minister of PIWC-Dansoman, and the presbytery for their commitment to reaching unreached people groups, and called for God’s blessings upon them.

The Chief of Gurumbelle, who graced the event, also expressed deep gratitude to God and the Church for the love they had shown to the community.

Others present at the event were Pastor Daniel Nabaku (HUM Pastor for the Northern Sector), Pastor Gabriel Owusu Akyaw (Former Bulenga District Minister and HUM Pastor for the Koforidua Sector), Wa Area pastorate and their wives as well as the people of Gurumbelle, among others.

The Home and Urban Missions (HUM) is a specialised ministry of The Church of Pentecost that focuses on unreached people groups, expatriates, migrants and other marginalised groups.

Report by Pastor Gordon Ansah & Overseer Stephen Supir Bedim

Abedwum Church Building Dedicated web

Abedwum Church Building Dedicated

The Abedwum Assembly church building in the Akrokerri District of the Obuasi Area of The Church of Pentecost has been dedicated amidst great joy.

Apostle William Boakye Agyarko, the Obuasi Area Head, dedicated the building on Sunday, April 24, 2023.

The entire project, with a total cost of 578,000.00, was sponsored by Mr Joseph Antwi, a philanthropist based in South Africa and CEO of ASDS South Africa and Gye Nyame Company Ltd Ghana.

Mr Antwi personally contributed 553,000.00 towards the construction of the church building, demonstrating his deep commitment to the cause.

The church building was named in honour of his late father, Elder Paul Akwasi Antwi.

The Akrokerri District Minister, Pastor Richard Osei Mensah, and his wife, Esther, were also hailed for their role in ensuring the successful completion of the building.

Addressing the congregation on the theme, “Dedication to the Service of God for Maximum Impact,” Apostle Boakye Agyarko underscored the significance of believers wholeheartedly dedicating their lives to God’s service, urging them not to fear death.

He emphasised the importance of leading a righteous life, free from sin, as God blesses those who separate themselves for His divine purposes, encouraging the believers to stand firm against false doctrines.

During the dedication ceremony, Apostle William Boakye Agyarko offered heartfelt prayers, calling for God’s abundant blessings upon Mr Joseph Antwi and all those who contributed their time and resources to the completion of the church building.

The Area Head took a moment to inspire the youth, urging them to prioritise education for personal and spiritual growth.

Mr Joseph Antwi, the project sponsor, shared his deep desire and lifelong dream to build a church.

He called upon those whom God has blessed to use their resources to support the work of the Lord, as it serves as a testament to His grace and goodness.

Mr Antwi thanked God for His abounding grace and encouraged everyone to persevere despite challenges.

The Chief of Abedwum and his elders graced the ceremony, along with the Obuasi Area pastorate and their wives, showcasing unity and support within the community.

The dedication of the Abedwum Assembly church building marked a significant milestone in the spiritual upliftment of the community.

Report by Pastor Francis Kwame Wugban.

Embrace God's Purpose and Find Peace web

Embrace God’s Purpose and Find Peace – Apostle Hagan To Christian Youth

The Director of the Youth Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Ebenezer Hagan, has encouraged young individuals to embrace their circumstances in order to find contentment in God’s purpose for their lives.

Apostle Hagan said this yesterday when he delivered a sermon titled “Discontentment” at the D. K. Arnan Worship Centre during the Teshie Zone of the Teshie-Nungua Area youth meeting.

Emphasising the destructive nature of discontentment, Apostle Hagan noted that “Discontentment is dissatisfaction with one’s circumstances or status or possession or situation. It can be your sex, parents, background, tribe, or school. It is the lack of contentment. You look at what you’ve got and compare. It makes you feel bad.”

Highlighting the struggles faced by teenagers and young adults in discovering themselves, Apostle Hagan offered a comforting reminder from Psalm 139, stating, “You were made in the glory of God.”

He encouraged the youth to find solace in their unique identities, cautioning against the desire to change one’s sex, as it contradicts God’s purpose.

He emphasised that “to change your sex is to change God’s purpose in your life.”

Drawing wisdom from the parable of the prodigal son, Apostle Hagan noted, “In life, your money and resources can be exhausted. Money answers many questions but not all questions.”

He urged young people not to place undue importance on material wealth, reminding them that circumstances beyond their control, such as famines or personal trials, can leave them feeling vulnerable.

Addressing the importance of humility and self-reflection, Apostle Hagan stated, “Sometimes you can make mistakes, but you can ‘come to your senses.’ Don’t be too big to apologise.”

He highlighted the need to take responsibility for one’s actions and seek forgiveness when necessary rather than blaming oneself or God for discontentment.

Referring to 1 Timothy 6:6-10, Apostle Hagan emphasised the negative consequences of discontentment, saying, “Discontentment yields many immoral behaviours among youth.”

He encouraged the youth to seek contentment in their relationship with God and to trust in His plans rather than succumbing to negative influences.

Present at the service were Apostle Wilberforce Nkrumah Agyemang, Area Head of Teshie Nungua, Pastor Gabriel Nti, PENSA Travelling Secretary of the Madina Sector, and a section of the pastorate in the Teshie Zone.

Report by Teshie-Nungua Area Youth Ministry

Mampong Area Children’s Ministry Organises Training Workshop For Ministers’ Wives web

Mampong Area Children’s Ministry Organises Training Workshop For Ministers’ Wives

The Mampong Area Children’s Ministry of The Church of Pentecost organised a one-day workshop for the ministers’ wives within the area.

The workshop, a novelty of the Area Head, Apostle Samuel Asare, was held on Thursday, June 8, 2023, and aimed at equipping minister wives to take direct involvement in the children’s ministry affairs of the various districts.

The workshop was facilitated by Pastor Vincent Cudjoe Amuzu (Area Children’s Ministry Leader, Area Executive Committee Member, and Kofiase District Pastor) and Mrs. Ruth Afrah Koomson (Area Children’s Ministry Executive Member and Wife of Nsuta District Minister).

Participants were taught how to use the ministry’s syllabi to teach children by Mrs. Ruth Koomson. She began her presentation by saying, “Just as we prayerfully prepare and deliver sermons at adult congregations, the story should not be different if we really want to make the needed impact in a children’s ministry class.”

She further explained that Bible stories and memory verses should not be taught in the same class or session with the children on the same day.

“These are to be separated to help the children properly comprehend what we want to teach them on a particular day, class, or session,” she added.

She emphasised that “it is always advisable to separate the children according to their age grouping (0-6, 7-9, and 10-12) for the sake of their comprehension or absorption capacity.”

Mrs. Koomson also stressed that lessons from the Bible stories should be outlined to the children rather than just narrating the stories to them.

Pastor Vincent Cudjoe Amuzu, in turn, took participants through the concepts of the Community Children’s Club (CCC), Jethro Initiative (JI), Box Library, and My Community My Responsibility.

He encouraged participants to employ these insightful, playful, and colourful initiatives proposed by the Children’s Ministry directorate to plant Jesus in the hearts of our children.

There was also a breakout session where participants were grouped and made to practice what they had learned.

In a brief remark at the event, Apostle Samuel Asare admonished participants to take the training seriously to help impact the children in the Area, especially when the ministry is challenged with inadequate Children-Workers.

“The area is positioned to offer you all the necessary support as far as this initiative is concerned in order not to leave these God-given children out of the maximum impact agenda,” he passionately added.

The event, which coincided with ministers’ wives’ monthly prayer meeting, also had in attendance Mrs. Beatrice Asare (Wife of the Area Head).

Report by Mrs. Janet Osei-Yeboah

3 Officers Retire In Amasaman District web

3 Officers Retire In Amasaman District

The Amasaman District in the Achimota Area of The Church of Pentecost on Sunday, June 18, 2023, held a retirement service for three illustrious officers who have served dutifully in various capacities in the church for several years.

These retirees, Elder Albert Brefo, Elder Peter Mensah, and Deaconess Grace Mensah, have dedicated many years of diligent service in various capacities within the church.

The retirement service took place at the Amasaman Central Assembly auditorium (Mercy Temple) in Amasaman and was officiated by Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost.

Apostle Abraham Swanzy, the National Director of the Ghana Evangelism Committee, also assisted in the ceremony.

Officiating the service, Apostle Nyamekye stated that those who believe in Jesus are blessed and extend to future generations.

He encouraged the congregation, stating, “Even if you don’t have children, adopt someone and treat them as your own.”

Speaking on the theme “Possessing the Cities of Your Enemies,” Apostle Nyamekye reiterated that for descendants to overcome the challenges and obstacles, they must possess strength and empowerment.

He emphasised the importance of being capable, competent, and influential in specific fields.

Elder Albert Brefo, a highly regarded Bible teacher and staunch guardian of the Pentecostal heritage, was ordained as a deacon in The Church of Pentecost in 1976 by Pastor Painstil in Accra. Later 1988, Apostle S.K. Ansong ordained him as an elder in Kumasi. Elder Brefo, married to Theresa Afia Owusu-Nyarko, has seven sons, two of whom are church ministers.

He served in several leadership roles throughout his tenure, including being the first Presiding Elder of Woraso Assembly in Kumawu District (1983-1987) and the first Presiding Elder of Opah Assembly in Taifa District (2003-2004). He also served as the Chairman of the District Marriage Committee in Amasaman (2004-2023) and was a member of the District Ministerial Committee (1998-2023), among other responsibilities.

Elder Peter Mensah, the founder of the Royal Priesthood Academy since 1996, was ordained as a deacon in 1994 and as an elder in 2001. He is known for his expertise in Bible teaching, discipline, exceptional generosity and support for church projects, and youth mentorship. Elder Mensah, married to Deaconess Grace Mensah, is the father of six children.

His contributions to the church include serving as a District Executive Committee Member in Sarpeiman (2016-2020), a District Ministerial Committee Member in Sarpeiman (2016-2020), a District Executive Committee Member in Amasaman (2009-2016), and an Amasaman Local PEMEM Leader (2000-2004), among other roles.

Deaconess Grace Clottey-Mensah, a registered nurse and midwife, has co-founded the Royal Priesthood Academy since 1996. She was ordained as a deaconess of The Church of Pentecost in 1998. She actively supports the Ministry to Prisons, demonstrates exceptional generosity, mentors the youth, and possesses a captivating charisma.

Her notable positions include serving as the Amasaman Worship Center/ District Women’s Ministry Leader (2004-2008), Amasaman WC Prisons Coordinator (2004-2015), Chieftaincy Ministry Secretary in McKeown Assembly (2022-date), and Sarpeiman District PENTSOS Committee Secretary (2016-2021), among others.

These dedicated officers are highly esteemed for their selfless service to the church and commitment to positively impacting humanity.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Avenor District Retires 7 Dedicated Officers web

Avenor District Retires 7 Dedicated Officers

The Avenor District in the La Area of The Church of Pentecost organised a heartfelt retirement service for seven dedicated officers who served with distinction in the district.

The service occurred on Sunday, June 18, 2023, at the Avenor Central Temple.

The retiring officers include Elder Eugene Aboagye Amoah, who dedicated 34 years of service; Elder George Bram Addo, who served for 28 years; Elder Emmanuel Debrah Danso, who contributed for 20 years; Deacon Daniel Kumi Darko, with 22 years of service; Deaconess Doris Nkansah, with 22 years of service; Deaconess Grace Ofori Frimpong, with 22 years of service; and Deaconess Mispah Azah, with 22 years of service.

Addressing the congregation on the topic “Reposition Yourself So That No One Takes Away Your Crown,” Pastor James Denis Osei Assibey, the Mamobi District Minister, expounded on the various types of crowns and rewards that await believers on the day of judgment.

He explained that a crown symbolises authority and power, an ornamental headpiece representing sovereignty, which is bestowed upon those who complete a race, or a course or faithfully serve God during their lifetime.

“Every Christian will receive a crown according to their works and the service rendered unto God,” he affirmed.

Pastor Assibey stressed that Christians who genuinely love God and persevere through trials and persecution without compromising with the world would receive the crown of life in heaven.

Quoting from 2 Timothy 4:8, he emphasised that the crown of righteousness awaits those who live righteously in thought and character, urging believers to be conscious of God’s presence and strive to please Him in all aspects of their lives.

He further highlighted that the crown of rejoicing will be awarded to Christians who actively reach out to the unreached, those who lead others to Christ and nurture them to stand firm until the end.

Pastor Assibey, therefore, encouraged believers, especially leaders who have faithfully served God, to strive for the crown of glory.

“This crown, reserved solely for leaders, possesses an enduring beauty,” he remarked.

The retirement service was a fitting tribute to honour these seven officers’ exceptional dedication and commitment. Their selfless service has left an indelible mark on the Avenor District and inspires others to follow.

Report by Gina Akua Padi

Youth Director Encourages Youth To Pursue Godly Character web

Youth Director Encourages Youth To Pursue Godly Character

The Youth Ministry Director of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Ebenezer Hagan, has urged young Christians to pursue godly character for greater societal impact.

Apostle Hagan shared this admonition yesterday when he fellowshipped with the Youth Ministry of the Teshie Nungua Area of the Church. He was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Priscilla Hagan.

The event, held at the ABG Temple in Nungua, was attended by the youth from the 16 districts within the Nungua Zone of the area.

In his sermon titled “Grounded in Godly/Christlike Character – The Barnabas Example,” Apostle Hagan highlighted the exemplary traits of Barnabas, emphasising his reliability, selflessness, reverence for God, and being filled with the Holy Spirit, among other virtues.

He encouraged young people to embrace and exemplify a godly character reflecting their inherent value and worth.

Apostle Hagan also advised them to lead lives that would leave a lasting impact on their communities and inspire others.

Also present at the event were Apostle Wilberforce Nkrumah Agyemang (Teshie Nungua Area Head), Pastor Gabriel Nti (PENSA Travelling Secretary for Madina Sector), and a section of the pastorate in the Nungua Zone.

Report by Nungua Zone Youth Ministry

Every Christian Is Destined For Greatness web

Every Christian Is Destined For Greatness – Pastor Prah Amonoo Asserts

The New Tafo District Minister of The Church of Pentecost, who doubles as the New Tafo Area Secretary, Pastor George Prah Amonoo, has assured Christians that by virtue of their belief in Christ Jesus they are destined for greatness and prosperity.

He explained that Jesus, whom they have believed is able to do above and beyond what they can envision.

“We serve a God who raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the trash heap; seats them with noblemen and gives them a throne of honour,” Pastor Prah Amonoo said this in a sermon he preached on Sunday, June 18, 2023, to wrap up the Yennyawoso District Week celebration held at the Redemption Assembly auditorium, under the theme: “Be the Head and Not the Tail For Maximum Impact In the Nations.” – (Deuteronomy 28:13).

Speaking on the topic: “You Are Destined For Greatness,” culled from 1 Samuel 2:8; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Romans 8:30; Jeremiah 1:5, among other scriptures, Pastor Prah Amonoo revealed that when God created humankind, He put the seeds of prosperity and greatness in them. He, however, said that man lost these inherent virtues to sin.

The New Tafo District Minister stated that Jesus Christ was, therefore, sent to the earth to restore man to his former dignity. 

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ: Though He was rich, for our sake He became poor, so that by His poverty we might become rich,” he noted.

He, therefore, stated that anyone who accepts Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour shares in this promise of greatness and affluence.

The New Tafo Area Secretary explained that though the promises of God are sure, this does not mean Christians should sit idly and fold their arms in anticipation of God’s blessings.

To access the blessings of God and become great, Pastor George Prah Amonoo urged Christians to be purposeful in life; hardworking and develop good work ethics (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

He further advised them to be faithful to the Lord in tithing and offering, and be generous towards others (Proverbs 11:24-25; Galatians 6:9-10), saying, “If you sow into the ministry of man of God, God will bless you.”

Report by Emmanuel Nana Nsiah

PENSA-Cape Coast Sector Zonal Games Held web

PENSA-Cape Coast Sector Zonal Games Held

The Cape Coast Technical Institute (CCTU) hosted the zonal games event organised by the Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA), Cape Coast Sector on Saturday, June 17, 2023.

The participating schools for the event were Cape Coast Nursing and Midwifery Training College (CCNMTC), Ankaful Psychiatric Nursing Training College (PNTC – Ankaful), and Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU).

Activities undertaken were football, volleyball, sack race, and tennis ball for both male and female categories.

The PENSA Traveling Secretary for Cape Coast Sector, Pastor Blessing Joseph Quayson, in his introductory remarks, mentioned that “the purpose of these games is to fulfill the holistic development mandate of the Youth Ministry Vision 2023, which seeks to meet the holistic needs of the young people.”

He added that these games will meet the physical needs of the students and also bring unity among PENSA members in the sector.

Reading from 1 Timothy 4:7-8, the PENSA Traveling Secretary urged the participants to train themselves to be godly.

He emphasised that, even though physical training has some values or benefits, godliness has more value or benefits for both the present life and the life to come.

Pastor Quayson also encouraged the participants to use the opportunity to share the gospel of Christ with others who have not given their lives to Christ.

The event was ceremonially opened with a tennis ball match between the PENSA Traveling Secretary and a student.

At the end of the games, PENSA-CCTU Ladies won the football tournament, and PENSA-PNTC Gentlemen emerged first in the men’s football competition and the sack race.

PNTC Gentlemen and CCTU Ladies emerged first for the volleyball competitions.

PENSA-CCNMTC Gentlemen also won the tennis ball contest, while their ladies won the sack race.

Some individual honours were also presented to outstanding participants.

The PENSA Traveling Secretary and the Sector Head, Elder Raynold Nii Addo, took turns presenting various trophies and awards to the deserving institutions and players.

Kate Pratt and Esther Larbi of PENSA-CCTU, as well as Alex Konadu of PENSA-PNTC, who scored two goals each, were adjudged the best players of the tournaments.

Stanley Asare of PNTC and Celestina Nartey of CCTU also took home the Best Male Coach and Best Female Coach awards, respectively.

In attendance were Pastor Ebenenzer Ayivi Okoampah (Ebubonko District Minister), Elder Bismark Afrifa Marfo (Sector Finance Secretary), and all PENSA presidents and executives.

Report by Agnes Odei (PENSA CCTU Ass. Secretary)

Twifo Wamaso District Honours 3 Officers Upon Retirement web

Twifo Wamaso District Honours 3 Officers Upon Retirement

The Twifo Wamaso District in the Twifo Praso Area of The Church of Pentecost has organised a grand ceremony to honour three officers who have faithfully served the Church for several years.

The retired officers, namely Elders James Annam (39 years of service), Daniel Twumasi Ankrah (38 years of service), and Emmanuel Abeka (28 years of service) were celebrated in a memorable event held at the Twifo Mampoma Church auditorium on June 6, 2023.

Apostle David Nii Addo-Pappoe, the Twifo Praso Area Head, chaired the programme, assisted by Pastor George Mpoamoh Yenabi, the District Minister.

Pastor Eugene Tettey Duodu of the Twifo Mampong District delivered the sermon on the topic, “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work,” based on Hebrews 6:9-12 and Job 41:11, among other biblical passages.

Pastor Duodu emphasised that God never overlooked the efforts made by His children to advance His kingdom.

He highlighted that God, being the owner of the earth and everything in it, can bless His faithful servants immeasurably. He concluded by encouraging everyone not to lose heart in their service to God, as their labour will never be in vain.

Expressing his heartfelt appreciation to the retirees, Apostle David Nii Addo-Pappoe, the Area Head, thanked them for their selflessness and unwavering dedication, which significantly contributed to the growth and progress of the Church in the Area.

To honour their exceptional services to the Church, the retirees were presented with citations of honour and certificates of service.

The event was attended by Mrs Faustina Addo-Pappoe, the wife of the Area Head, ministers and their wives in the Area, and Mr Stephen Cobbinah, the Circuit Supervisor of the Ghana Education Service for Twifo Agona, among other distinguished guests.

Report by Joseph Smiles Adu.