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PENTSOS Director Encourages Ex-Offenders To Embrace Entrepreneurship

The Director of Pentecost Social Services (PENTSOS), Pastor Benjamin Asare Yeboah, has encouraged prison associates to embrace entrepreneurship as a practical pathway to economic independence, dignity, and successful reintegration into society.

Speaking on Friday, May 22, 2026 at the Prison Associates’ Conference (PRISACON) at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) Gomoa-Yesukrom on the topic, “Entrepreneurship: Engaging in a Profitable Venture That Can Be Sustained and Expanded,” Pastor Asare Yeboah acknowledged the challenges many ex-offenders face after leaving prison, particularly social stigma, unemployment, and limited opportunities for reintegration.

According to him, the inability of many ex-offenders to secure employment contributes significantly to recidivism, noting that societal rejection and economic hardship often push individuals back into crime.

He, however, encouraged participants not to surrender to societal limitations but to intentionally create opportunities for themselves through entrepreneurship and skills development.

“You do not need society’s permission to create value for yourself,” he stated.

Pastor Asare Yeboah urged prison associates to start small, remain disciplined, and build trust gradually within their communities.

He explained that the first few months after release are critical, stressing the importance of reconnecting with family, demonstrating responsibility, and engaging in honest work, no matter how small the beginning may appear.

“Consistency is the proof of change people will believe,” he emphasised.

According to him, entrepreneurship offers ex-offenders an opportunity to rebuild confidence and regain dignity without depending entirely on formal employment systems.

He encouraged participants to identify needs within their communities and use available skills, talents, and resources to provide services and generate income.

Touching on personal development, Pastor Asare Yeboah highlighted discipline, honesty, creativity, patience, and persistence as essential qualities for building sustainable businesses.

He also advised participants to avoid reckless spending, manage money wisely, and protect themselves from common financial scams.

The PENTSOS Director further identified several vocational and technical fields currently in high demand in Ghana, including electrical work, welding, plumbing, refrigeration and air-conditioning services, auto mechanics, carpentry, masonry, solar energy installation, fashion design, and heavy equipment operation.

He noted that small businesses such as thrift clothing sales, phone accessories, home cleaning services, and local food vending could be started with relatively low capital.

Pastor Asare Yeboah also highlighted various interventions by PENTSOS and The Church of Pentecost aimed at empowering unemployed persons and vulnerable groups through skills training and entrepreneurship support.

According to him, PENTSOS has established vocational and community-based skills training centres across the country, including centres within prisons and correctional facilities, to equip individuals with practical employable skills.

He further explained that the organisation collaborates with local artisans and vocational masters to provide community-based apprenticeship opportunities in trades such as fashion design, carpentry, and plumbing.

Despite the stigma often associated with ex-offenders, Pastor Asare Yeboah urged participants not to allow their past to determine their economic future.

“Entrepreneurship is more than making a living; it is reclaiming your dignity, rebuilding your life, and bringing lasting value to your community,” he stressed.

He concluded by encouraging participants to remain focused, disciplined, and determined in their pursuit of transformation and economic stability.

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“Your Past Cannot Define You” – DDGP Rabbles (Retd) Encourages Ex-Offenders

Former Deputy Director-General of Prisons in charge of Operations, Sylvester K. Badu Rabbles (Retd), has encouraged prison associates to reject stigma and intentionally pursue disciplined lifestyles that will help them avoid recidivism and successfully reintegrate into society.

Speaking on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at the Prison Associates’ Conference (PRISACON) at the Pentecost Convention Centre, Gomoa-Yesukrom on the topic, “Overcoming Stigmatisation and Recidivism,” DDGP Rabbles described stigma as a form of labelling that causes society to reject individuals because of their past mistakes or circumstances.

According to him, stigmatisation often results in low self-esteem, depression, hopelessness, discrimination, and social isolation, particularly when ex-offenders seek employment, accommodation, and acceptance within their communities.

He explained that recidivism refers to the tendency of ex-offenders to return to prison after release, stressing that the conference seeks to help participants break that cycle through transformation and intentional living.

“Your past cannot define you. It is not a permanent marker on your life,” he stated.

Referring to 2 Corinthians 5:17 and John 8:11, DDGP Rabbles noted that the grace and mercy of God are powerful enough to break cycles of crime and imprisonment.

He emphasised that ex-offenders would constantly face choices between lawful living and criminal behaviour, and therefore must establish strong personal discipline and life structures to guide their decisions.

According to him, discipline remains essential after release from prison, particularly because life outside prison does not come with the same controlled environment and strict regulations.

He encouraged participants to develop consistent spiritual and personal routines, including prayer, morning devotion, goal-setting, and productive work habits.

“The idle mind is the workshop of the devil,” he cautioned, urging participants to remain committed to productive and purposeful living.

DDGP Rabbles also warned against maintaining relationships with former criminal associates, describing such associations as one of the strongest indicators of recidivism.

“Be very wise in your choice of friends and avoid relationships that push you toward crime,” he advised.

He further encouraged prison associates to embrace humble beginnings, work diligently, and gradually build stable and respectable lives through legitimate means.

According to him, legally earned income promotes independence, confidence, self-respect, and personal dignity.

Touching on emotional management, he urged participants to learn how to control anger and avoid emotionally driven decisions that could lead to conflict and criminal behaviour.

He recommended counselling, prayer, meditation, reflection, exercise, and involvement in church activities as practical tools for personal transformation and emotional stability.

DDGP Rabbles noted that society may not immediately trust ex-offenders after their release, but consistency in positive behaviour would gradually build confidence and acceptance.

“Consistency will change how society sees you and how you see yourself,” he stressed.

He also encouraged prison workers and volunteers to intentionally mentor ex-convicts by monitoring their progress, offering guidance, and rewarding positive behavioural change.

Concluding his presentation, DDGP Rabbles reminded participants that God is able to transform broken lives for meaningful purposes.

“Overcoming stigma and recidivism is about building a life worthy of protection,” he concluded.

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The Gospel Still Has Power To Transform Lives – Apostle Dr Nuekpe

An Executive Council member of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Dieudonné Komla Nuekpe, has stated that the transforming power of the gospel remains a living testimony that Jesus Christ still saves, restores, renews, and gives hope to the hopeless.

He made the assertion on behalf of the General Secretary of the Church, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, on Thursday, May 21, 2026, during the opening session of the Prison Associates’ Conference (PRISACON) currently underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre, Gomoa-Yesukrom.

Describing the conference as a divine platform for transformation, Apostle Dr Nuekpe, who is the La Area Head of the Church, emphasised the life-changing power of the gospel.

“The transforming power of the gospel is a testimony that Jesus still saves, restores, and renews and gives hope to the hopeless,” he said.

He explained that the message of Christ reaches beyond social boundaries to restore those who have been broken and rejected by society.

Reaffirming the Church’s belief in the inherent value of every human being, he stressed that all persons are created in the image of God regardless of their past.

He cited biblical examples such as Moses, who was once a fugitive but later became God’s instrument for delivering Israel from bondage, and Apostle Paul, who persecuted the Church yet became one of the greatest apostles of Christ.

According to him, these examples demonstrate clearly that God does not define people by their past, but by His purpose for their future.

He further emphasised that the Church, in line with its Vision 2028 agenda, is committed to an inclusive mission that reaches all people groups without exception.

“No group of people should be excluded from the transformational agenda of the Kingdom of God,” he stated.

Apostle Dr Nuekpe also underscored the importance of extending ministry beyond church walls into prisons and rehabilitation centres.

“We must go beyond the walls of the church to bring hope, healing, restoration, and transformation to all people,” he noted.

Referencing Luke 4:18, he described the Prison Ministry as a central expression of the Church’s mandate rather than a secondary assignment, calling it a strategic platform for demonstrating Christ’s saving power among the marginalised.

Touching on the challenges faced by ex-offenders, Apostle Dr Nuekpe noted that reintegration into society remains one of the greatest difficulties confronting former inmates.

According to him, many struggle with stigma, emotional trauma, social isolation, and low self-esteem, while others are denied opportunities not because they lack potential, but because society refuses to offer them a second chance.

He, however, stressed that God, in His boundless grace, always gives humanity another opportunity, and, therefore, believers must also demonstrate the love and compassion of Christ to all people.

“Transformation must not only be preached from the pulpit but demonstrated through love, support, and skills training,” he stated.

He further explained that God does not merely save people from something, but saves them for a purpose, adding that every transformed believer becomes an instrument through which God demonstrates His power.

“Never allow your past to imprison your future,” he cautioned participants, encouraging them to embrace restoration and purpose in Christ.

He concluded by reminding attendees that every life carries value and has the potential to become a testimony of God’s grace and transforming power.

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PRISACON 2026 Underway At PCC

The maiden edition of the Prison Associates’ Conference (PRISACON), organised by the Prison Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, is currently underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre in Gomoa-Yesukrom, near Kasoa in the Central Region of Ghana.

The conference, which is being held under the theme, “The Prison Associate Transformed By The Gospel And Power of The Holy Spirit For A Better Life” (Colossians 1:4-6, Philemon 10:11, 1 Samuel 10:6), is expected to end on Friday, May 22, 2026.

Delivering the opening address, the Chairman of the Prison Ministry Committee of the Church, Apostle ADP James Tetteh, described the conference as a historic gathering that would leave lasting memories in the minds of participants while helping them discover deeper meaning and purpose in life.

According to him, the Prison Ministry is shifting greater attention towards the reintegration of former inmates into society. He explained that although previous interventions largely focused on persons in confinement, the ministry is now placing stronger emphasis on supporting individuals who have completed their sentences and are seeking to rebuild their lives.

Apostle Tetteh observed that some individuals unfortunately leave prison in worse conditions than when they entered. He, however, stressed that the Church remains committed to demonstrating the love of Christ to all persons, irrespective of their background or circumstances.

Quoting the words of Jesus Christ, “I was in prison and you came to take care of me,” he noted that the Church’s mission extends beyond the walls of the church auditorium to people who are often neglected and rejected by society.

He further indicated that the ultimate answer to the challenges confronting society is the gospel of Jesus Christ accompanied by the demonstration of the power of the Holy Spirit. According to him, the Church must continue to reach out to people bound by sin and social exclusion while helping offenders to learn from their mistakes, rebuild their lives, and successfully reintegrate into society.

Speakers billed for the conference include Apostle Eric Nyamekye (Chairman, The CoP); Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi (General Secretary, The CoP); Apostle A. N. Y. Kumi-Larbi (Ghana Prison Service Council Chairman); Apostle ADP James Tetteh (Chairman, Prison Ministry Committee); and Pastor DSP Thomas Owusu Brefo (National Coordinator, Prison Ministry).

Other speakers include Her Honour Deaconess Sarah Nkansah Bempong (Circuit Court Judge and Prison Ministry Advocate), Professor Oppong Asante (Professor of Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Ghana), DDGP Sylvester Rabbles (Retd) and Elder John Coffie.

The conference forms part of the broader vision of the Church to support rehabilitation, restoration, and reintegration efforts among inmates and ex-convicts through the transforming power of the gospel.

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Mrs. Mary Nyamekye, Deaconess Philomina Mireku Honoured web

Mrs. Mary Nyamekye, Deaconess Philomina Mireku Honoured

Two prominent women of The Church of Pentecost, Mrs. Mary Nyamekye and Deaconess Mrs. Philomina Mireku, have been honoured at the maiden edition of the Ghana National Motherhood and Legacy Honours held at the National Theatre in Accra.

The prestigious event, organised by Sankofa Prestige Concepts on Friday, May 16, 2026, celebrated women whose lives and service have made lasting impact on families, faith, leadership, and national development.

Mrs. Mary Nyamekye, wife of the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Eric Nyamekye, was recognised for her remarkable contribution to Christian family life, women’s ministry, and spiritual mentorship over the years.

Also honoured was Deaconess Mrs. Philomina Mireku, Director of the Women’s Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, for her dedicated leadership, commitment to Christian service, and immense contribution to the spiritual growth and empowerment of women and families across the country.

The event brought together distinguished personalities from various sectors of society to celebrate motherhood and legacy as vital pillars of national transformation and social development.

The organisers described the Ghana National Motherhood and Legacy Honours as a visionary platform aimed at documenting inspiring legacies, affirming the role of motherhood, and motivating future generations to pursue lives of impact and service.

The ceremony highlighted the invaluable contributions of women whose influence continues to shape homes, communities, churches, and the nation at large.

The recognition of Mrs. Mary Nyamekye and Deaconess Mrs. Philomina Mireku further reflects the growing impact of women in ministry and Christian leadership within Ghana and beyond.

Report by Doe Anapey

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PWDs Receive Life-Changing Support Through Church Collaboration

The Northern Sector of the Ministry to Persons With Disabilities (MPWDs) of The Church of Pentecost, has partnered with Able Hands Project to provide free prosthetic hands to persons living with disabilities both within and outside the church.

The initiative forms part of efforts to restore dignity and improve the quality of life of beneficiaries by equipping them with functional prosthetic hands.

The intervention is expected to help recipients become more independent and reduce the burden often associated with physical disabilities.

Speaking in an interview, the Northern Sector MPWDs Coordinator, Pastor Joshua Koku Semador, explained that the gesture aligns with the Church’s commitment to its Corporate Social Responsibility.

“This gesture forms part of the Church’s Corporate Social Responsibility to give dignity to persons with disabilities who struggle to perform various activities. Although it is expensive, it forms part of the Church’s vision to support and uplift them,” he stated.

He further revealed that the prosthetic hands provided come in three different functional folds, allowing beneficiaries to easily switch between them depending on the specific task they intend to perform.

Also speaking, the representative of Able Hands Project, Garth Gulley, expressed his excitement about the collaboration.

“I am happy to collaborate with the MPWDs of The Church of Pentecost to help provide dignity, independence and a better way of living for these individuals through free prosthetics,” he said.

Some beneficiaries, overwhelmed with gratitude, also commended the Church for the life-changing intervention. According to them, the prosthetic hands will significantly enhance their ability to perform daily activities independently—tasks they previously could not undertake on their own.

The initiative highlights the Church’s continued commitment to inclusive support and social intervention, particularly for vulnerable groups within society.

Report by Dennis Owusu, Pent Radio Kumasi

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PIWC Nkawkaw Women’s Ministry Donates To Holy Family Hospital

The Women’s Ministry of the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC)-Nkawkaw, in collaboration with the entire church, has donated assorted items to the Sir Knight Dr. S.K. Amuzu Children’s Ward of the Holy Family Hospital as part of activities marking the 2026 Women’s Ministry Week celebration and the church’s 10th anniversary.

The presentation took place on Sunday, May 10, 2026.

Items donated included diapers, baby wipes, detergents, tissue rolls, Nido, tins of milk, cooking oil, pAck of soft drinks, biscuits, bottled water, and baby clothes. The items were valued at GH₵6,000.

In addition, the church settled the hospital bills of two needy patients at the ward, amounting to GH₵2,400.

Receiving the items on behalf of the hospital, Dr. Francis Omane Antwi, who is in charge of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the entire Children’s Ward, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the church and the Women’s Ministry of PIWC Nkawkaw for the kind gesture.

According to him, the donation reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ and will go a long way to support the work of the children’s ward in caring for young patients.

He also commended The Church of Pentecost for its significant contributions to national development through the construction of schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, and other social interventions across the country.

Speaking during the presentation, the Resident Minister of PIWC Nkawkaw, Pastor Robert Fobi, expressed gratitude to the management and staff of Holy Family Hospital for their dedicated service to God and the nation.

He further used the opportunity to invite the hospital staff to participate in the church’s upcoming 10th anniversary celebration scheduled to take place from June 9 to June 14, 2026, under the theme: “A New Season of Great Grace and Excellence.”

The gesture forms part of the church’s commitment to demonstrating Christian love through practical support to communities and institutions within its operational areas.

Report by PIWC Nkawkaw Media

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Pastor Quaicoe and Family Donate Toilet Facility to Wassa Senchem Community

Residents of Wassa Senchem in the Twifo Praso Area have received a significant sanitation boost following the commissioning and handover of an eight-chamber toilet facility donated by Pastor Albert Kojo Quaicoe and his family on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.

The project was officially handed over to the community as part of efforts to improve sanitation and public health in the area.

Constructed at a cost of GH¢58,000, the modern facility comprises eight toilet chambers and two handwashing basins designed to improve hygiene and sanitation in the community.

The dedication ceremony was performed by the Twifo Praso Area Head, Apostle Lawrence Otu-Nyarko, who commended Pastor Albert Kojo Quaicoe and his family, the church and the district leadership for demonstrating commitment to community development and social transformation through practical interventions.

Speaking at the event, Pastor Albert Kojo Quaicoe stated that the project aligns with the vision of The Church of Pentecost to positively impact society by addressing the pressing needs of communities.

He expressed optimism that the facility would help reduce open defecation and promote proper sanitary practices among residents.

In his exhortation, Apostle Otu-Nyarko urged members of the community to maintain the facility well to ensure its longevity and sustained benefit for future generations.

Community leaders and residents expressed heartfelt appreciation to The Church of Pentecost for the intervention, describing the project as timely and beneficial to the health and wellbeing of the people.

Present at the ceremony were Nana Kofi Amponsah III, Hon. Issifu Braimah, Mark Evans Andoh, church members, traditional authorities, opinion leaders, and residents of the Senchem community.

Report by Eric Sarpong

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Apostle Tawiah Charges Ministerial Students To Depend On God’s Calling, Power

The Tamale Area Head and Executive Council member of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle John Budu Kobina Tawiah, has urged ministerial students to rely on God’s calling and the power of the Holy Spirit in fulfilling their ministry.

He made the call on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, during the Community Service of the Pentecost School of Theology and Mission (PSTM), where he spoke on the theme, “The Messenger of God.”

Referencing scriptures including Exodus 3:7-18, John 1:6-7, Deuteronomy 18:15-19, and 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, Apostle Tawiah explained that every genuine messenger of God is divinely called and commissioned for a specific assignment.

Using Moses as an example, he noted that ministry is not self-appointed but a divine responsibility backed by God’s authority. He added that God often raises His servants from among the people they are called to serve, making them relatable to their audience.

Apostle Tawiah also highlighted the human weaknesses of God’s messengers, referencing Moses’ feelings of inadequacy and fear. According to him, God does not necessarily call the most qualified people, but rather equips those He calls for His work.

He, therefore, encouraged the ministerial students to depend on God’s presence and enablement instead of their personal abilities, eloquence, or charisma.

Touching on the role of the Holy Spirit in ministry, the Tamale Area Head stressed that effective ministry must be accompanied by the power of God and not merely persuasive speech. He urged the students to continually seek spiritual renewal and empowerment so their ministries would produce lasting impact.

The Executive Council Member further stated that every messenger of God carries a divine message and must faithfully communicate God’s word without distortion or self-promotion.

He also underscored the importance of teamwork in ministry, citing how Aaron supported Moses in his assignment. He encouraged the students to work closely with their church executives and build dependable ministry teams as they prepare for their various stations following the 48th General Council Meetings.

Apostle Tawiah further indicated that genuine encounters with God should produce visible transformation and spiritual impact, adding that ministry should be marked by evidence of God’s presence through changed lives and spiritual growth.

The service ended with a time of prayer, as participants sought fresh empowerment, boldness, and spiritual impartation for effective ministry.

Report by P/Ovr. Michael Asante, PSTM Media

Pentecost Power Must Produce Tangible Impact – Apostle Obuobi Charges Believers web

Pentecost Power Must Produce Tangible Impact – Apostle Obuobi Charges Believers

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, has stressed that the power of Pentecost must produce visible transformation and impact in the lives of believers and society at large.

According to him, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is not merely an emotional or ceremonial experience but a divine empowerment that transforms ordinary lives into extraordinary vessels for God’s purpose.

Apostle Obuobi said this when he joined the Sophia McKeown Temple under the La District on Sunday, May 17, 2026, together with his wife, Mrs Juliana Korkor Obuobi, during Day 3 of Pentecost Week 2026 — a major spiritual event on the calendar of The Church of Pentecost.

Preaching on the theme, “The Effects of the Power of Pentecost,” the General Secretary referenced Acts 2:1-4, explaining that the events of the Day of Pentecost demonstrated the manifestation of divine power through the sound of a mighty rushing wind, tongues of fire, the infilling of the Holy Spirit, and speaking in tongues.

He noted that the prophecy of Joel concerning the outpouring of the Spirit upon all flesh was fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost, adding that the Holy Spirit is fundamentally the Spirit of power.

Quoting Acts 1:8, Apostle Obuobi emphasised that believers receive power through the Holy Spirit to become effective witnesses of Christ to the ends of the earth.

He further stated that one undeniable effect of Pentecost power is transformed living.

“Worthless lives become lives with meaning, ordinary lives become extraordinary, natural lives become supernatural, timid people become bold, and the weak become strong,” he stated.

Drawing lessons from the experiences of the early church, Apostle Obuobi cited the healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate by Peter and John as well as the extraordinary miracles performed through Apostle Paul’s handkerchiefs and aprons as evidence of the supernatural impact of Spirit-filled believers.

According to him, the power of Pentecost must always produce results.

“We cannot be walking in the power of Pentecost without an effect,” he stressed.

He explained that the Holy Spirit empowers believers not only to experience personal revival but also to make lasting impact on their generation.

Describing Pentecost as “the gateway to supernatural living,” Apostle Obuobi urged Christians to seek a fresh encounter with the Holy Spirit and live lives that demonstrate God’s power through transformation, influence, and service to humanity.

He concluded by reminding the congregation that life is ultimately about impact and not merely material gain, stressing that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to affect generations yet unborn through the gospel and righteous living.

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