The Director for Ministry of the Elim Pentecostal Churches in the United Kingdom, Rev. Staurt Blount, has declared that God always has a people to pursue His cause.
Giving an exhortation at the 18th Session of the Extraordinary Council Meetings of The Church of Pentecost at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh in the Central Region of Ghana, on Thursday, May 2, 2024, Rev. Blount indicated that the world has been corrupted by practices and cultures that are alien to the will of God.
This, he explained, was a deviation from the divine purpose of God in creating the world to which a call for transformation is needed.
Speaking on the topic, ‘Unleashed to thrive in God’s world,’ Rev. Blount stated: ‘We live in a period and culture that is alien from the will of God. Regardless of this, God has called us to transform nations through the power of His word.’
Drawing inspiration from the first six chapters of the Book of Daniel, the Elim Director of Ministry revealed that God always has a strategy to accomplish His works and thus, God is always in control, has a people for His cause and has a plan to guide His actions.
Explaining further, he argued that people may wonder why God allowed King Nebuchadnezzar to take the Israelites into captivity and allowed some articles stolen from the temple.
‘God did that to demonstrate the fact that He can use His enemies to purify His people, just like He had earlier warned King Jehoiakim earlier and therefore God always has people,’ he emphasised.
He added that at a period in the history of Israel they had both good and bad prophets and judges. However, whenever the people of Israel turned their backs to God, He always brought up prophets to speak to them.
He called on all ministers and Christians to avail themselves and strive to push the will of God against the corrupt culture of the current world to transform it for God.
Former General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Rigwell Ato Addison (Rtd), has highlighted the need for Christians to live a life that will bring the glory of Christ to transform their world.
Delivering the sermon during the burial and memorial service for the late Mrs Gladys Arnan, the wife of the second General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, the late Apostle Daniel Kwabena Arnan, on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the forecourt of the Achimota Central Assembly of the church, Apostle Ato Addison drew inspiration from the biblical passage of John 12:23-24 to emphasise three key things all humans should acknowledge in their life.
He highlighted the significance of death, noting that while it is appointed for everyone to day, Jesus’ death was pivotal in saving humanity, saying, ‘The cross is the glory of the Messiah, and unless He dies, that glory won’t be seen,’ he said.
He urged the mourners who came from all walks of life to pay close attention to the issue of death, as Jesus himself emphasised its importance.
According to him, all Christians must die from sins and the things of the world immediately after accepting Christ as their Lord and personal Saviour to be able to meet God after their departure from earth.
The former General Secretary also spoke about the importance of sacrifice, encouraging the faithful to be dedicated about their service to God and to live wholeheartedly for Christ to transform the lives of others.
Apostle Rigwell Ato Addison (Rtd) assured the congregation of the hope that comes with steadfast faith in God, saying, ‘No one has stayed diligently in God and hasn’t benefited from Him. Whatever we’re doing in our Christian life and service won’t go waste. God has given us an assurance of blessings and a better life in heaven.’
He took the opportunity during his sermon to eulogise the late Mrs Gladys Arnan, describing her as an evangelist who had won many souls for Christ and a modest and humble woman, whose life and death had brought glory to the Lord.
Mrs Gladys Arnan, wife of the second General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, the late Apostle D. K. Arnan, has been eulogised as a woman who ‘exemplified her role as a minister’s wife during her active years in ministry.
The General Council in their tribute read by Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, the General Secretary of the church, during the burial and memorial service in honour of Mrs Arnan on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the forecourt of the Achimota Central Assembly, described her as ‘a diligent, assertive, industrious, and prayerful’ woman who did not keep these virtues to herself but strived to instill them in her children and household.
One other remarkable thing the church highlighted about the life of the late Mrs Gladys Arnan was the fact that, even in retirement, after the demise of her husband, Apostle D. K. Arnan, more than two decades ago, ‘Mama Gladys remained committed to the Lord by actively participating in church programmes and shared her wisdom and insights with leadership and the entire church.
Mrs Arnan got married to Apostle Daniel Kwabena Arnan, the second General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost in 1967 and played pivotal roles in advancing the cause of the gospel with her late husband.
With great support for her husband, they served The Church of Pentecost for 36 years in ministry in various capacities, being stationed at Kadjebi District, Suhum District, Tamale Area, the General Headquarters as General Secretary and the Greater Accra Regional Head at the same time. After successfully ending their term as General Secretary in 1988, Apostle D. K. Arnan and Mama Gladys served as National Head in Liberia and Regional Head in Takoradi, Koforidua, Kumasi and finally ended it all at Akim Oda in 2002.
She was called to glory by her Maker in February this year at aged 74.
The Youth Ministry of the Potter’s Assembly in the Ablekuma New-Town District of The Church of Pentecost has donated assorted food items to vulnerable children at the Village of Hope Orphanage Home in Ayawaso.
The donation, which included water, toiletries, used and brand-new clothes, etc., took place on April 28, 2024, at the premises located in Ayawaso in the Ga North District.
The youth delegation was led by the Youth Ministry Leader, Mr. Joseph Nkoo, and the Secretary, Mr. Richard O. Ntiri. Also present were Elder Emmanuel Segu (District Youth Ministry Leader), Elder Benjamin Ansah, Deaconess Blessing Nkoo, and some members of the Potters Assembly.
Upon arrival, the children greeted the team with great enthusiasm. The team also met with the home’s caretaker, who gave them a brief history of the orphanage.
Presenting the items, Mr. Joseph Nkoo emphasised the importance of providing for vulnerable people within our community (orphans and widows), as seen in James 1:27.
He said that the ministry saw the need to visit and support the orphanage as a way of providing the children with a better livelihood, adding that this also aligns with the vision of the Church to possess the nations.
Elder Emmanuel Segu and Benjamin Ansah took turns offering words of encouragement and inspiration to the children, challenging them to aspire for greater heights despite their predicaments.
Deaconess Blessing Nkoo shared the gospel of Jesus Christ with these kids, urging them to surrender their lives to Him in order to receive His grace and guidance.
Receiving the items on behalf of the home, the caretaker expressed gratitude to the church for their gesture, which will contribute significantly to the operation of the home.
The Odorkor Area Women’s Ministry of The Church of Pentecost has generously donated 150 pieces of cloth (6 yards each) to be distributed among the Yendi and Goaso Areas, as well as the Church in Zimbabwe.
The donation was presented to the Area Head, Apostle Isaac Tetteh Juddah, by a delegation from the Women’s Ministry, led by the ministry leader, Deaconess Mrs. Cynthia Ankomah, for onward distribution to the beneficiaries. The brief presentation ceremony took place at Area Office in Accra.
Speaking to PENTECOST NEWS, Deaconess Ankomah stated that the cloths would be evenly shared among the three beneficiaries, ensuring that each receives 50 pieces.
The Pentecost University (PU) has been commended for playing a pivotal role in the higher education space, especially in the areas of producing graduates with integrity, distinguished problem-solving skills, and efforts at consolidating its place as research-led university.
The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, gave the acknowledgement in his State-of-the-Church Address (SOCA) at the opening ceremony of the 18th session of the Extraordinary Council Meetings on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, near Kasoa.
Apostle Nyamekye indicated that the PU, together with the church’s other institutions of higher learning namely, Birmingham Christian College (BCC), UK, Pentecost Biblical Seminary (PBS), USA, and the Pentecost Francophone Theological Bible School (PFTBS), La Cote D’Ivoire continued to provide quality education, promote cross-cultural learning, and offer global perspectives to enriching students’ educational experience.
Apostle Nyamekye who is also the Chancellor of the University recognised the significant strides of the PU in providing significant theological education for the church.
‘In the year under review, PU made significant strides in Theology, Mission, and Pastoral Studies. PU trained and graduated 8,699 Elders, 160 ministers’ wives, and 115 individuals in other certificate programmes related to theology and pastoral studies with 606 ministers pursuing studies to attain BA Theology qualifications,’ he stated.
On ministerial formation for newly called minsters, the Chairman mentioned that 126 ministers were commissioned whereas 78 newly called ministers have commenced their ministerial formation programme at PSTM.
Apostle Nyamekye also mentioned that PU received a 4-year European Commission grant for joint research in robot-based laser manufacturing of electric vehicle components and the receipt of a 3-year European Commission-Africa Union Mobility Grant to offer master’s and PhD training in advanced Digital Manufacturing in Africa. The total grant amount awarded to PU in 2023 was 630,000 Euros.
Thus, PU’s research output, the Chairman explained, has led to a 62.2% increase in publications, and its total financial investment increased by 71.7%.
In a full-day retreat marked by spiritual enrichment and strategic planning, The Church of Pentecost, Kaneshie Area, gathered all its dedicated youth leaders, coordinators, and executive members for an insightful and empowering retreat.
Held at the Darkuman Nyamekye Central, the retreat aimed to equip and inspire youth workers to fulfill their roles with passion and purpose.
The retreat began with an intensive prayer and intercession for the Church and the Youth Ministry. The Area Youth Pastor, Pastor Fred Stephen Sarfo, led the attendees in a period of devotion on the topic, “With Me in Charge.”
He admonished the house that so far as God has placed them in leadership position, it means there are tremendous power locked up in them and with that Grace they need to take charge of wherever they have been placed to help develop the Youth while paying particular attention to The Presence of God. This he did, drawing lessons from the story of Joseph in Genesis 39 and 40.
The event featured an esteemed lineup of speakers, each bringing unique insights and perspectives to the table. Mrs. Cecilia Sarfo, the Kaneshie Area Youth Pastor’s wife, kicked off the proceedings by emphasizing the paramount importance of a youth worker’s relationship with God.
Drawing from biblical principles and personal anecdotes, Mrs. Cecilia Sarfo underscored the need for youth leaders to prioritise their spiritual growth and seek God’s guidance in all aspects of their lives, including relationships and marriage.
Mrs. Priscilla Yirebi, a distinguished member of the National Executive Council for Youth and Schools Outreach Ministries, delved into the topic of passion and availability in Christian service.
With fervor and conviction, Mrs. Yirebi challenged attendees to cultivate a deep passion for God’s work and to remain steadfastly available for service, even in the face of challenges and persecution.
Drawing parallels from Scripture and real-life examples, she emphasised the transformative power of passion and availability in advancing God’s kingdom.
Pastor Frank Mensah Tandoh, the PENSA Traveling Secretary for the Kaneshie Sector, also made significant contributions to the retreat, offering valuable insights and practical guidance to the assembled youth workers.
Pastor Tandoh elaborated on the vision outlined in the Youth Ministry’s Vision 2027 document, aligning it with the overarching vision 2028 of The Church of Pentecost. His presentation provided clarity and direction, empowering attendees to align their efforts with the broader goals of the church.
Throughout the retreat, attendees were encouraged to actively engage with the presentations, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced leaders. The atmosphere was one of unity, amity and spiritual growth, as youth workers from across the Kaneshie Area came together to renew their commitment to serving God and impacting lives.
As the retreat drew to a close, Pastor Fred Stephen Sarfo, the Kaneshie Area Youth Pastor’s presentation on Christian Youth Programming (CYP), imparted a final word of encouragement, urging attendees to develop and raise leaders within their spheres of influence. His impassioned plea resonated deeply with the audience, serving as a fitting conclusion to a day filled with inspiration and empowerment.
The Pentecost Students and Associates in the University of Ghana, Legon (PENSA-Legon), under the leadership of the Resident Campus Minister, Pastor Kwadwo Obeng, is embarking on a week-long missions outreach to proclaim the gospel and win souls for Christ in the Downtown Ofaakor Area of the Church.
PENSA Legon, with a fervent dedication to the Great Commission, announces the commencement of “Missions 2024,” running from April 29th to May 5th, dedicated to spreading the message of Luke 19:10, “The Son of Man Came to Seek and to Save the Lost.”
Their chosen mission field, the Downtown Ofaakor area, eagerly awaits the passionate evangelists who will journey through Domeabra, Papaase, Jei Krodua, Bawjiase, and Abamkrom districts, spreading the message of hope and redemption.
The PENSA-Legon team, comprising of students, associates and alumni will engage in evangelism, donations and other activities to spread the love of Christ to all on the mission field.
The committee announces the urgency of the harvest of souls in these times and the pivotal roles each participant plays in fulfilling the divine mandate of spreading the gospel across every geographical area.
The team anticipates the move of the Lord in the fields by the work of signs and wonders to fulfil His word in Mark 16:17-18.
Recognising the great need for evangelism and the immense opportunities to bring more people to Christ, “Missions 2024” is determined to engage in missions work with a renewed zeal, focusing on the unsaved and those far from God’s grace, to share the saving message of Jesus Christ and lead them into a deeper relationship with Him.
The Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) in Konongo in the Ashanti Region has made a significant contribution to mission work with the donation of two brand new Hadjin Motorbikes and two Rechargeable Speakers to the International Missions Office.
The items, valued at GHS 28,400, was made on Thursday, May 2, 2024, on the sidelines of the 18th Session of the Extraordinary Council Meeting of The Church of Pentecost at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.
The Walewale and Wa Areas in Ghana are set to receive the motorbikes, while the speakers will be sent to Cameroon and Zambia.
Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang Bekoe, the International Missions Director (IMD), received the items on behalf of the Missions Office. He expressed his gratitude to the PIWC Konongo for their generous donation, noting that it will significantly aid missions work in the beneficiary areas and countries.
Present at the donation ceremony were Apostle Daniel Owusu-Akyaw (Konongo Area Head), Pastor Edmund Mawunyo Duvor (Resident Minister of PIWC Konongo), Pastor James Kusi (Personal Assistant to the IMD) and some officers from PIWC Konongo.
The Aflao Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Michael Agyen Brefo, on Friday, April 12, 2024, dedicated the Salo Central Assembly church building in the Salo District.
He was ably assisted by the District Minister, Pastor Seth Asamani Wettey and other ministers in the Aflao Area.
The building was funded through grants from the Church’s General Headquarters, the Area, District and contributions from members of the Local Assembly.
Delivering a brief exhortation at the event on the topic: “The holy things of God” based on Isaiah 38-39, Daniel 1:1-2, Daniel 5:1-11, 2 Chronicles 7:1, the Anloga District Minister, Pastor Carlmax Obeng Boadu exhorted Christians not to treat the holy things of God with contempt.
He emphasised that anything that is connected to God is holy unto him. Relating his sermon to the church of God, Pastor Carlmax stressed that since the church s the gathering place of God’s people, it is holy unto him.
“God doesn’t want the value of his house to be diminished. Christians ought to exhibit the highest level of reverence and honour to God anytime they are in his presence,” he stated.
He therefore admonished the congregants to take good care of the building.
Dedicating the building, Apostle Michael Agyen Brefo expressed gratitude to the leadership of the Church for the financial assistance.
He commended the leadership of the Salo District, the current and past District Ministers, the district presbytery and the members for the successful completion of the project.
He admonished the church to exhibit sacrificial service to the Lord so that God will use them to build a strong church.
He encouraged the members to take good care of the church building since it is God’s holy place for the gathering of the saints.
The history of Salo Central Assembly could be traced back to 1976 through aggressive evangelism spearheaded by the late Pastor V.Y. Gogo (the then Anloga District Minister) through the instrumentality of the late Apostle K. K. C. Gadzeko (then an Elder and Witness Movement leader).
At the end of the outreach, souls were won, baptised and gathered for church service the following Sunday morning.
The Assembly started in a classroom as a place of worship. After 4 years of its existence, it was relocated to the late Efo Yador’s house, where a temporary structure was erected for church services. Few years later, the newly planted assembly faced diverse kinds of trials and persecutions from a cross section of the townsfolk who saw the church as a threat to their traditional religious worship. The church structure was burnt down on two occasions (in 1979 and 1993).
By the grace of God, the church bought a piece of land from the Gapkpetor family in 1990 with a temporary structure raised on it. In 1996, the local assembly through the hard work of Elder Gabriel Logah (the then presiding Elder) raised funds to commence her permanent building project.
The local assembly together with the members embarked on communal labour and raised the structure from foundation to the lintel level. Through the hard work of Pastors Enoch Nii Akrashie (the then Anloga District Minister) and Pastor Julius Semanyor (the first District Minister of Atorkor), the building project continued to the roofing level.
However, the project stalled for 10 years due to lack of funds. During the tenure of the late Apostle Blessed Bonney (Rtd.), the Area released Headquarters grant of GH¢14,000.00 for the roofing of the building. This therefore paved way for the laying of foundation stone which was held on March 12, 2011. Pastor Inusah Aturi (the then District Minister for Atorkor) also continued with the building project during his tenure.
In 2019, the Salo District was carved out of Atorkor with Pastor Seth Asamani Wettey stationed as the first District Minister. Through the gracious hand of God as well as the financial support from the Area and the diligence of the District and the local assembly, the project has been completed and dedicated.
Report by Pastor Francis Lamptey (Aflao Area Reporter)
