women's director

Women’s Director Visits Volta, Oti Regions

The Director of the Women’s Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, Deaconess Philomina Mireku, has paid a working visit to the Volta and Oti regions to interact with members of the ministry in the two regions.

Addressing members of the ministry at the PIWC-Mawuli Estate in Ho on November 20, 2020, on the theme: “Aligning Yourself to the Purpose of God to Become the Agent of Transformation,” based on Matthew 18:18-19, Dr. Gladys Quartey, National Executive Committee (NEC) member of the ministry, stated: “If we align ourselves with the will and purpose of God, we excel in whatever we do, but if we don’t we cannot transform the world. Therefore, if we want to be agents of transformation, then we need to obey and align ourselves to the purpose of God.”

She added that the ministry has a vision that is drawn from the overarching vision of the church, “so we plead with you to align with this vision and ran with it, and we believe that if we all align with this vision we will indeed become agents of transformation and possess the nations for Christ.”

The Women’s Ministry Director, Deaconess Philomena Mireku, expressed her profound gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve in the office of director. She remained thankful to her predecessors for the great feat achieved and made a passionate appeal to all and sundry to offer their unflinching support to the ministry to help it achieve greater heights. 

She shared with the stakeholders the drafted vision document and categorically highlighted the seven key priority areas that encapsulate the vision. The vision, she said, would be finalized into a working document and share with members of the ministry.

In an address, the Hohoe Area Head, Apostle Moses Kwame Ahiakor, said: “God speaks through diverse ways through diverse means to different generations at different times. We, therefore, have to be conscious of the word of God at every point in time, and align with it or with anyone who he sends to lead us.”

Report by Overseer Felix Brakatu.

james

James McKeown Worship Centre Holds Leadership And Training Retreat

The James McKeown Worship Centre (JMWC) at Korle Gonno in the Dansoman Area of The Church of Pentecost has organised leadership and training retreat for officers and church workers of the district.

The maiden retreat, dubbed “Timothy Camp 2020” took place on Saturday, December 5, 2020, at the Mudor Conference Centre, SSNIT Emporium at Bukom Plaza, under the theme: “Ambassadors for His glory.” A total of 101 participants attended the programme.

Opening the retreat, the Resident Minister, Rev. (Dr) Perez Sepenu, explained that the camp was about shaping leaders in the district towards impactful service in the house of God. Reading from 2 Timothy 2: 15, he stated that the camp was also geared towards “equipping leaders of the district with contemporary leadership skills that are not only responsive to the challenges of our time but also proactive and innovative.” 

“The camp was expected to birth leaders who are sharp in their mandate and excellent in the discharge of their duties,” he added.

Among the speakers were Dr (Mrs) Naa Akushia Sepenu (wife of the Resident Minister), Rev. (Prof.) Joseph Osafo Adu, Elder (Prof.) Justice Bawole, Elder Stephen Appiah Yeboah, Elder (Dr) Thomas Opoku Darkwah, Elder Richard Obeng Dwamena, Deaconess Evelyn Basingnaa, Author Raphaelle Antwi and Mr. Afari Nunya, an IT consultant. Intercessory prayers were said for leaders and the peace of the nation by Elder Cephas Agbozo and Rev. Dr Bismark Baggio Agoe. 

Topics treated were: “Exposition of the CoP theme for 2020 and 2021,” “Marital and relationship life of a leader,” “The call and heart of a leader,” “The passion and power of purpose,” “The ingredients of a team,” “The leader and time management,” “Effective Annual Planning,” “JMWC data collection tools and reporting,” and “CoP Finance Administration and budgeting.”

Report by JMWC Media Team.

be gracious in speech

Be Gracious In Speech – General Secretary Advises Christians

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, has advised Christians to be very circumspect in their utterances and be gracious in speech.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi noted that words are very powerful and should never be uttered carelessly since it could have an adverse impact on the listener or hearer.

“We all know that words can be cruel because they have power. We have all been hurt by what someone said to us. We know that words have staying-power because we carry wounds from our youth where someone said something negative to us or called us by a derogatory name. And even now, we still feel some pain whenever we think about it.

“So, if we know this, why are we still so careless with our words?  Why do we easily spew negativity instead of using the power of words to build ourselves and those around us up and be a positive influence?” he bemoaned.

Reading from 2 Corinthians 5:17-18 and Ephesians 4:29, the General Secretary reminded Christians of their new status in Christ – new creations – and urged them to make conscious efforts to shrug off the old sinful nature in order to reflect the nature of Christ in their conduct and particularly in their speech.

“From the very moment we are regenerated (born again), the old-self is to be put off and should remain nailed to the cross, and we are to ‘put on the new-self.’ This is because we have become a new creation with the new life that is found in Christ,” he explained.

He urged Christians to effectively put on the new nature by making a decisive and deliberate effort to adopt godly attitudes and behaviours while abstaining from carnal things. He also advised them to rid themselves of worldly vices and to stop deceiving, defrauding, or harming others. “We are also advised against sinning when anger rises in our heart, and deal with wrong motives and harmful emotions swiftly,” he added.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi, again, asserted that “Christians do not just read God’s word and study its content in order to expand our knowledge of Scripture, but are required to obey and apply scripture to our everyday life,” adding that “when we walk in the unity of the Spirit and live in the holiness of heart, we mature in the faith, grow in grace, and produce the fruit of humility; patience; gentleness and love.”

He, therefore, encouraged Christians to desist from the use of foul and abusive language because it does not nourish (improve) the lives of their hearers, creates deep wounds, causes unpleasantness in the environment, a sign of spiritual illness or immaturity, and, more importantly, because they will render an account to God on every word that is uttered carelessly. (Matthew 12:34-37)

In the place of unwholesome talk, he advised Christians to always utter gracious words that would edify themselves and those around them.

“As Christians, the words we speak should flow from a heart that is centered on Christ and should minister timely words of grace and encouragement to others,” he said while noting thatanother aspect of gracious speech is the Christian’s ability to resolutely defend their faith in gentleness and respect.”

This passionate appeal by the General Secretary was contained in a sermon titled “Let Your Speech Always Be Gracious And Seasoned With Salt,“ which he delivered on Sunday, December 13, 2020, when he fellowshipped with members of the Osu Central Assembly of the church.

Other scripture references used by Apostle Kumi-Larbi include Ecclesiastes 10:12-14, Proverbs 15:1-2, Proverbs 15:23, Proverbs 18:21 and James 1:26.

PENTECOST NEWS

GPCC

GPCC Congratulates President-Elect Nana Akufo-Addo

The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has congratulated H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on his re-election for a second term as President of the Republic following the declaration by the Electoral Commission (EC) on Wednesday, December 9, 2020.

This was contained in a statement issued on December 10, 2020, by the General Secretary, Rev. Emmanuel T. Barrigah, on behalf of the National Executive Council.

The GPCC also congratulated the other presidential candidates, especially H.E. John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for putting up a great contest.

“Despite rejecting the results of the elections as declared by the EC, which is a constitutional right to exercise, we would appeal to and encourage H.E. John Dramani Mahama and the NDC to follow the laid down constitutional processes to seek redress if they so desire,” the statement read.

The Council also lauded the EC and its staff, the Security agencies, the National Peace Council, the Media, CSOs and all others contributed directly or indirectly towards the peaceful electoral outcome.

“Above all, we wish to congratulate all Ghanaians for your show of commitment and the sacrifices you have made throughout the entire electoral process leading to this outcome in the midst of the deadly COVID-19 Pandemic.

“To the families of those who unfortunately lost their lives or got maimed as a result of the electoral process, we extend our heartfelt sympathies and call on Government to ensure that perpetrators of such violent and criminal acts against fellow citizens are brought to justice. God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong. Long live Ghana!” it further read.

President Nana Akufo-Addo, who led the New Patriotic Party into the December 7 presidential elections, obtained 6,730,413 votes, representing 51.59% while the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama placed second, garnering 6,214,889 which represents 47.36% of the total ballots cast.

The results were declared yesterday by the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Mrs Jean Mensah.

PENTECOST NEWS

That There May Be Glory In The Church – Apostle Dr Christian Tsekpoe 2

“That There May Be Glory In The Church” – Apostle Dr Christian Tsekpoe

The Resident Minister of A-Lang Worship Centre in the Odorkor Area of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Christian Tsekpoe, has urged believers to strive to live holy lives so that the glory of God will remain in His Church.

Apostle Tsekpoe said this on Sunday, December 6, 2020, when delivering a sermon on the topic, “That There May Be Glory in The Church,” based on Ephesians 1:1-23.

He stated: “Light and darkness cannot coexist, in that same way; sin and glory cannot dwell together. Where there is sin, the glory of God leaves the church, but when the people live in holiness, God’s glory rests mightily in the church.”

He revealed that the word ‘glory’ which is translated from the original Hebrew word “Kabowd” connotes splendour, honour, beauty, magnificence, strength and greatness. He, therefore, posited that “if a person carries the glory of God, that person is excellent, beautiful, magnificent and has splendour.”

He further expounded that every believer is a representative of God on earth. “Therefore, the world’s view or opinion of God depends to a large extent on how far His glory is seen in the church. So, if we want the world to have a good reputation of God, then, let us strive to maintain His glory in the church,” he stated.

Reading from Ephesians 5:27, Apostle Tsekpoe noted that the glory of a church is not seen in the beauty of its edifice, or the vastness of its auditorium, saying, “The early believers worshipped in dilapidated buildings and huts, however, people came from far and near to witness the spectacle of God’s glory and the power of His might at work in them.

“This is because, the church was pure and holy, and God dwelled among them. Therefore, holiness and purity is the true mark of a glorious church.”

He concluded by saying that “if the world sees the glory of God in the church, they will run to us and when we speak to them of God, they will believe because they can see in us the glory of God and His power at work. It is then, that we can indeed possess the nations for Christ.”

He urged all believers to uphold purity so that there may be glory in the church.

Report by John Abban.

tarkwa Area

Tarkwa Area Welcomes Apostle Dr. Walker

The newly-assigned Tarkwa Area of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr. Daniel Okyere Walker, and his family, received a rousing reception during a welcome service held in their honour on Sunday, November 29, 2020.

The ceremony, which took place at the Rev. E. K. Kyei Memorial Temple, was officiated by the Takoradi Area Head, Apostle Joseph K. Assabil.

Delivering a sermon titled: “Be Alert To Recognise God’s Visitation,” with John 1:1-4, Hebrew 1:1-4 and Matthew 23:36-39, as scripture references, Apostle Assabil advised Christians to always be on the alert to discern the visitation of the Lord.

According to the Takoradi Area Head, Christians would only recognise the moments of God’s visitations when they are constantly sensitive to the leadings of the Holy Spirit in all their endeavours.

Apostle Assabil further stated that “blessed is the man who comes in the name of the Lord, so the men of God who have served in this Area were sent to the Area by God. Therefore, although each Area Head may have a different approach to work, all of them were sent by almighty God to fulfil His divine purpose in the Area.”

Apostle Dr. Walker, in his response, commended his predecessors, particularly his immediate-past Area Head, Apostle John Appiah Aidoo, for the good works done in the Area, adding that he was very confident that God will help him to build on the gains made so far.

“Tarkwa Area is going to be a Golden Area not because of its numerous mineral deposits but that the Area will be golden in souls winning, evangelism, finances and all the other indicators of the church. Tarkwa Area is going to be expensive and beautiful just as gold is and that the Lord will lead His church to become the ‘Number One Area,’” he said.

The event had in attendance Apostle Onyinah Gyamfi (Bogoso Area Head), Pastor Samuel Emery Yormesor (Tarkwa Area Secretary) and the entire area pastorate.

Also present were Elder John Arthur (the Tarkwa Area Deacon), representatives from Pentecost International Worship Centre, Kokomlemele (PIWC-Kokomlemle) and representatives from Management and Council of Pentecost University.

Report by Dorcas K. Edzie Frimpong, Tarkwa  

Twifo Praso Area Inaugurated, Area Head Welcomed1

Twifo Praso Area Inaugurated, Area Head Welcomed

The newly created Twifo Praso Area of The Church of Pentecost has been inaugurated. The service, which was officiated by Apostle Samuel Yaw Antwi (Cape Coast Area Head and Chairman of the Central Regional Coordinating Committee), also coincided with the welcome service for the first Area Head, Pastor David Nii Addo-Pappoe, and his family.

The programme took place at Twifo Praso Asikafo Assembly Auditorium on Sunday, November 29, 2020.

The Twifo Praso Area, which was carved out of the Assin Foso and Dunkwa Areas, is made up of 11 districts with Twifo Praso as the administrative seat.

Those elected to serve on the Area Executive Committee are Pastor Francis Kwashie Dodgey (Area Secretary), Elder Seth Addo Kumi (Area Deacon), Pastor Vincent Ephraim Amegah, Pastor Matthew Mpaba, Elder Paul Harrison Indome, and Elder Joseph Smiles Adu, as Executive Members.

Preaching the sermon, Apostle Samuel Yaw Antwi, who is an Executive Council Member of the church, took his Bible text from Joshua 13:1 and based his message on the theme, “More Land To Be Occupied.” He encouraged the members to avoid complacency and work tirelessly until they get to where God wants them to be.

He called on officers of the church to nurture, lead, and equip the members into maturity so that the church becomes a glorious one ready to possess the nations.

Apostle Antwi praised the past ministers of Twifo Praso District, especially the late Pastor J. K. Appiah, whose tireless effort has helped the district to grow tremendously to the extent of becoming an Area seat.

“You have achieved a lot, but there is still much to be achieved. In order to get to a higher level, you have to be prayerful, cultivate the habit of endurance, preach the gospel as you have never done before, and raise and disciple Christians who will in turn disciple others,” Apostle Antwi asserted.

In his response, the Area Head, Pastor David Nii Addo-Pappoe, expressed his appreciation to God for His care and protection. He also thanked the leadership of the church and the members for their support. He called on all and sundry to work wholeheartedly to help move the new Area forward.

Pastor David Nii Addo-Pappoe was called into the full-time ministry of the church in 2002. He has since served in Nyankomase Ahenkro, Sege-Ada, Sefwi Ahibenso, and Techiman Gyarko districts. He is married to Mrs. Faustina Addo-Pappoe.

Present at the ceremony were Apostle S. R. Odum (retired), the pastorate in the Area and their wives and delegates from Techiman and Dunkwa Areas, among others.

Report by Joseph Smiles Adu.

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Ho Area Women’s Ministry Holds Intercessory Prayers Ahead Of December 7 Elections

The Ho Area Women’s Ministry of The Church of Pentecost has held a day’s intercessory prayers for Ghana ahead of Monday’s general elections dubbed “A Glorious Woman to Stand in the Gap for the Nation” – Ezekiel 22:30.

Addressing the women, the Area Women’s Leader, Deaconess Fidelia Ametefui, said that election is not about war but an opportunity to exercise one’s right as democratic citizens of the country, hence it must not be taken as a do or die affair.

She explained that the prayer session was intended to call on God to support, guide, and help the nation through the elections. “If we all listen very well to things that are happening in the country, it doesn’t look like we have the peace that we were enjoying before this period. That is why we are calling on our God to intervene and calm all nerves and to make sure that the political players maintain and sustain the peace we have been enjoying all this while,” she added.

According to her, women and their children suffer most in every difficult situation be it violence or conflict.

“Because we don’t want to suffer any difficulty during this election should there be any war, we have decided to kneel before the Lord and pray for His intervention as women since we are His last born and always after His heart,” she said.

Deaconess Fidelia Ametefui, therefore, called on parents to advise their sons to avoid any acts of violence.

She also pleaded with politicians to put Ghana above the interest of their political parties and accept the outcome of the elections as the will of God.

The Guest Speaker, Mrs. Judith Viku (wife of Ho Dome District Minister), entreated all mothers to encourage their sons to avoid any form of engagement from politicians who may try to entice them to engage in violence.

“God is looking for a glorious woman who can keep her family safe during this period. Therefore, we must talk to our husbands and sons since they have the strength to fight.

“Don’t forget, when they cause the fight, they can escape leaving you and your children to suffer.

“This is the main reason why as a glorious woman, we stand in the gap for the nation and our families.

“If there is war, we won’t have the chance to worship God, do our businesses, or even go out. Let us be mindful of violence,” she concluded.

Mr. Oral Robert Amenyo, the Deputy Volta Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), commended the leadership of the Women’s Ministry for the programme and encouraged other churches to emulate the efforts of the church.

He seized the opportunity to thank the entire leadership of The Church of Pentecost for their support to the Commission during the outbreak of the COVID-19.

He further called on all and sundry to make sure that all the COVID-19 protocols are adhered to during the elections.

Mr. Amenyo appealed to all eligible voters to go out and vote peacefully and return home to wait for the outcome.

“I want to plead with all leaders of the various political parties to ensure that there is peace before, during, and after the election,” he stated.

Report by Solomon Ahiable.