The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has called on church leaders to arise and take charge of their church in order to achieve set goals and growth.
He made the call on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, during the Day One of the orientation for newly appointed leaders at the Pentecost Pension House, Gbawe, Accra.
Speaking on the topic, Building God’s Church; The Role Of The Church Leader,’ Apostle Nyamekye revealed that the church as an institution is both an organism and an organisation.
He highlighted that as an organism, the church’s life must be maintained, and as an organisation it needs leadership.
He indicated that the life of the church which must be maintained is represented in growth, reproduction and adaptation.
He cautioned that the church should not be seen as a company because companies live only based on social purposes, but the church is for the holistic growth of its members and society.
Apostle Nyamekye mentioned that two things that release the energies of members are when God arises in His power and when leaders arise and take charge.
He urged leaders to focus on prayer and creating environments for members to encounter God, asserting that true leadership combines diligence, vision, and character, rather than authority or glamour.
Apostle Eric Nyamekye maintained that while pastoral titles are important, effective leadership requires continuous learning and dedication to spiritual growth.
The Kasoa Area Head of The Church Pentecost, Apostle James Kwabena Asare, has declared that God still loves all persons regardless of their sins.
He made this declaration on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, during the Day 2 of the Greater Accra Unleashed Crusade, being held at the Black Star Square, Accra.
Delivering the sermon, Apostle Asare emphasised the importance of reconciliation with God and how the church is called to be God’s ambassador in this mission.
He explained that reconciliation means coming back to a relationship with God, and that God is making an appeal to the lost to turn and be reconciled to Him.
Apostle Asare further elaborated that reconciliation means God is no longer going to count a person’s sins against him or her again. He stressed that no human can claim to have never sinned, and that God could have punished humanity but He has decided to use His grace to clean and forgive permanently.
Drawing from Romans 10:8, Apostle Asare said that God is persistent in His quest to grant salvation to everyone. He admonished the unsaved to turn to God, and accept this salvation.
Using the story of Zacchaeus as a case study, he explained that Zacchaeus positioned himself at a place where he could encounter God. He emphasised that Jesus knows the heart of everyone who is willing to reconcile and deliberately decided to pass by Zacchaeus, so he can encounter Him.
‘This is why God sent The Church of Pentecost to the Black Star Square to be His ambassadors in the mission of reconciliation, so run to Christ regardless of your sins and be saved,’ he stated.
Ghana’s gospel diva, Piesie Esther, delivered a spectacular ministration on Wednesday night [August 21, 2024], at the ongoing Greater Accra Unleashed Crusade, igniting the Black Star Square with divine power.
In what could only be described as electrifying, the 2023 Best Gospel Artiste began her ministration with popular Pentecost songs, immediately drawing the congregation into a powerful worship experience. She then transitioned into her award-winning hit, ‘Awurade Mo,’ elevating the atmosphere from great to truly extraordinary.
Her rendition of Pentecostal evangelistic songs captivated the audience, creating a spiritual connection that was both profound and uplifting. The crowd wasn’t just listening – they were immersed in a powerful moment of divine encounter.
Piesie Esther’s performance was more than just a musical presentation; it was a ministry in itself. Her voice, filled with anointing, left an indelible impact, turning a night of worship into a heavenly experience that will be cherished by all who witnessed it.
The Church of Pentecost’s Greater Accra Unleashed Crusade, which began on Tuesday evening at Black Star Square (formerly Independence Square) in the heart of Ghana’s capital, Accra, has been an awe-inspiring and a spiritual experience.
The event’s scale and meticulous organisation have been remarkable. From the protocol team to the technical and sound engineering, every detail has been executed flawlessly, ensuring that thousands of attendees and online viewers are fully engaged.
Giant LED screens at key points ensure everyone is part of the experience, and the use of sign language interpreters reflects the church’s commitment to inclusivity. The song ministrations, led by vibrant choirs and seasoned gospel artists from Ghana, have elevated the worship atmosphere, filling it with a profound sense of divine presence.
What stands out most is the active participation of the youth, whose energy and dedication are a testament to the church’s bright future. Their involvement has added a vibrant dynamism to the crusade.
Moreover, the well-coordinated security measures have ensured a safe environment for all attendees.
Indeed, The Church of Pentecost’s Greater Accra Unleashed Crusade has been a resounding success, showcasing the power of faith, organization, and a united vision.
The outgoing Evangelism Ministry Director of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Amos Jimmy Markin, has called on all unbelievers who have been caught up in the webs of sin to turn from their sins and be reconciled with God because sin is devastatingly evil.
He made the clarion call Tuesday night (August 20, 2024), at the Black Star (Independence) Square during the first day of the Greater Accra Unleashed Crusade.
Speaking on the topic, ‘Be Reconciled To Him,’ which is the theme for the crusade, Apostle Dr Jimmy Markin explained that God created the earth and all that is in it for a purpose and reason. He indicated that God created man for His own pleasure – that man will love, serve and rejoice in Him, all the days of their lives.
However, due to the sins of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, the relationship between God and humanity was broken, causing a separation.
Apostle Dr Jimmy Markin noted that the effect of sin is that it estranges the relationship between man and God.
He bemoaned that the biggest challenge of the world presently is that people are seeking for everything everywhere but not God. This, he said, is causing discomfort, torment and wars in the world.
‘However, the good news is that God is ringing out, seeking to reconcile with mankind,’ he said.
He added that God has demonstrated His willingness to forgive and reconcile with man by sacrificing His only begotten Son for the sins of the world that all who believe in Him will be saved.
Apostle Dr Amos Jimmy Markin indicated that reconciliation with God can be achieved through turning away from sinful ways and accepting Jesus as one’s Lord and personal Saviour by confessing that He is the Son of God and the only source of salvation.
The Greater Accra Unleashed Crusade commenced on Tuesday with thousands in attendance and many giving their souls to Christ.
The Black Star Square in Accra, Ghana, was set ablaze as The Church of Pentecost’s Greater Accra Unleashed Crusade kicked off in grand style on Tuesday evening, August 20, 2024. By 5:00 PM, the atmosphere was already electrified with waves of people streaming into the iconic venue from all corners of the Greater Accra Metropolitan area.
The air was thick with anticipation as the Voice of Pentecost and other anointed song ministers led the crowd in powerful, spirit-filled song ministrations. The charged atmosphere left no doubt that the power of God was moving mightily in the square.
One of the night’s most stirring moments came when Pastor Hayford N. Yatimbo shared his deeply personal testimony of conversion. His story, filled with the grace and power of God, resonated deeply with the crowd, elevating collective faith and inspiring hope.
As buses continued to arrive, bringing more worshippers to partake in the powerful crusade, it became clear that the fire of revival had truly been ignited at Independence Square.
The Unleashed Crusade which will end on Friday is more than just an event; it is a divine encounter, drawing thousands into the transformative power of the gospel.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has prayed for peace in the Middle East, calling on divine intervention as Pastor Emmanuel Asante of The Church of Pentecost embarks on missions in Israel.
The mayor said this during the farewell service for Pastor Asante and his family on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at The Church of Pentecost in Brooklyn, USA.
Mayor Adams, who boldly professed his faith in Jesus, described Christ as the Prince of Peace. He attributed his position as mayor to the grace of God and the unwavering support of the African community in New York.
Mayor Adams expressed deep admiration for the members of The Church of Pentecost, particularly praising the church’s discipline, hard work, and significant contributions to the Brooklyn community over the past two decades.
He highlighted the unity and cooperation he has received from the church and commended the impact it has had on the local community.
To honour Pastor Asante and his family, Mayor Adams presented them with a citation and extended his best wishes for their continued ministry in Israel.
The officiating minister, Apostle Frank Asirifi, led a prayer for Mayor Adams and the city of New York, asking for God’s guidance and blessings upon the mayor’s leadership.
In his sermon, Apostle Asirifi urged Christians to always be prepared for God’s call, using the story of the donkey from Luke 19: 28-38 as an illustration.
He disclosed that one’s location cannot hinder God’s plans for them. He, therefore, urged Christians to be ready and willing vessels for God’s use at all times.
Apostle Asirifi also highlighted the privileges that come with being used by God. This includes association and accessibility, while warning against the dangers of exploiting these privileges.
Drawing from his own experiences as a missionary in Guyana, he assured the Asante family that the same God who guided him would also lead them to fulfil their divine mandate in Israel, the Promised Land.
Pastor Emmanuel Asante and his family, after four years of dedicated service at the Brooklyn District, have been transferred to Israel as the national head.
The church members expressed deep gratitude to God for bringing the Asante family to them during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. They testified to Pastor Asante’s dedication, particularly in providing food to members during the lockdown and praying for the sick.
His leadership was especially impactful in revitalising the youth ministry, a legacy clearly evident during the farewell service.
The event, filled with spontaneous praise and worship, became a revival as members celebrated the tremendous work God had accomplished through Pastor Asante and his family.
The Cape Coast Area Head of The Church of Pentecost and Board Chairman of Pent media Centre, Apostle Samuel Yaw Antwi, has retired from active ministry.
A retirement service officiated by Apostle Eric Naymekye, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, was held on Sunday, August 18, 20224, at the New Examination Centre of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), to climax his many years of service.
Apostle Antwi has served The Church of Pentecost diligently for 30 years, playing several roles and functions, including Executive Council member the Coordinator of the Central Regional Coordinating Committee, and other boards and committees.
During his tenure as Pent Media Board Chairman, Apostle Antwi led Pent TV to acquire a free-to-air license. Through his effort, the church also acquired the license to operate Pent Radio Kumasi.
Apostle Samuel Yaw Antwi accepted the call into the full-time pastoral ministry of The Church of Pentecost in 1994. He began the ministry in Nsoatre where they laboured for the Lord from 1994 to 1999. From there, they were called into missions in Zimbabwe from 1999 to 2005. They were recalled home and stationed at Tema West from 2005 to 2007, and later to the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Asokwa, from 2007 to 2009.
Due to his dedication to duty, he was seconded to the National Secretariat of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) where he served as its General Secretary from 2009 to 2017, assisting in the day-to-day administration of the ecumenical body.
Apostle Eric Nyamekye who chaired the retirement service described Apostle Antwi as a very good friend and a dedicated servant of God who is always willing to offer himself for the conduct of any additional duties regardless of the inconvenience involved.
Apostle Emmanuel Ofei Ankra-Badu, the Tema Area Head and former Director of the Pentecost Men’s Ministry (PEMEM) of The Church of Pentecost, together with his wife, Mrs Rosina Ankra-Badu, were on Sunday, August 18, 2024, retired from active service of the church.
Their retirement service was held at the Safo Memorial Temple in Tema Community 5.
Speaking at the service on the topic, ‘Managing Transition; Changeover Period,’ the immediate past General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, stated that timing is important in life’s journey.
He drew attention to significant lessons from the scriptures, stating, ‘Transition is a shift from one place, while changeover is the result of transformation.’
The Ashaiman Area Head pointed to the stories of King David, Solomon, Moses, and Joshua as some cases of leadership transitions in the Bible.
Drawing lessons between leadership transitions and relay races, the former General Secretary compared the precision required in a baton changeover during the Olympics to the careful passing of responsibilities in life.
‘As a team, making an improper baton pass, false starting, or improper overtaking results in disqualification,’ he noted, adding that “in a relay race, individuals do not win; you win as a team. However, individual mistakes result in the whole team being disqualified.’
‘When you are given a duty, finish hard. But have it at the back of your mind that you have your own track to run. Finish well, and when the time is due, you will be rewarded,’ he ended.
PROFILE
Emmanuel Ofei Ankra-Badu was born on Friday, December 18, 1959, to the late Pastor William Ofei Badu of Akwapim Mampong (a minister of The Church of Pentecost) and Mrs Grace Ofei Badu, of Abura Dunkwa. He was named after his grandfather, the late Rev George Ankra-Badu, a former Synod Clerk of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana.
CALL INTO FULL-TIME MINISTRY
He accepted the call into the full-time ministry in 2001 and was posted to Jumapo, in the Eastern Region. In 2003, he was ordained a Pastor. He was called into the office of an Apostle in the year 2013, while serving as a missionary in Kenya. In 2016 he was appointed Director of the Pentecost Men’s Ministry (PEMEM), where he served for four years. He has served as an Area Head in two Areas – Winneba and Tema.
TESTIMONY
In a testimony read by the The General Council of The Church of Pentecost, the Council revealed that Apostle Emmanuel Ofei Ankra-Badu made significant contributions to The Church of Pentecost during his 24-year ministry.
“His journey included serving in various roles, from ITI-PENSA Travelling Secretary to Director of the Pentecost Men’s Ministry. Notably, he expanded the church’s presence in Kenya by establishing 12 new districts and 86 assemblies,” it read.
Continuing, the testimony noted that the former PEMEM Director introduced notable initiatives like the Bible Reading Marathon and ‘Men on their Knees’ Prayer Festival.
The Agona Swedru Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Derek Kwaning Mireku, concluded his 38 years of dedicated service in the full-time ministry of the church on Sunday, August 18, 2024.
His retirement service, held at the Area Revival Centre in Nkubem, Swedru, was officiated by the International Missions Director (IMD) of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang Bekoe. The event was attended by people from all walks of life, including active and retired ministers of the church, members, traditional rulers, and politicians. Notable attendees included the immediate past Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah (Rtd.), and Apostle Dr Dieudonne Komla Nuekpe (Executive Council Member/La Area Head).
Sermon
Delivering the sermon on the topic, ‘The Ministry of the Pillar of Cloud and Fire,’ based on Exodus 13:21-22, Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang Bekoe related how God protected and preserved the people of Israel during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, drawing parallels to present-day ministry.
He explained that God led the Israelites by a pillar of cloud during the day and by fire at night, symbolising God’s presence among His people. This dual theophany, he said, represents the manifestation of God. Further referencing Numbers 9:15-18, he noted that the pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire were the same.
Apostle Bekoe indicated that like the pillars of cloud and fire which provided guidance and light, ministry should be directed towards offering direction and illumination to humanity. He added that ministry involves both encampment (staying) and embarkment (going), likening it to a military service. He stressed that ministry is about obeying God’s commands, urging believers to follow the Master in obedience, saying, ‘If you cannot follow, you cannot lead.’
He encouraged Christians to make an impact in their respective spheres by providing direction and light to those around them, as ministry encompasses all aspects of a believer’s life.
Profile of Apostle Derek Kwaning Mireku
Born on June 21, 1959, Apostle Mireku began his education at Begoro Presbyterian Primary School ‘A’ in 1965 and continued at Begoro Presbyterian Boys Middle School, completing in 1975. He furthered his studies at Begoro Secondary Commercial, where he read Accounting and Economics, earning his ‘O’ and ‘A’ level certificates, respectively. He worked with the Ghana Education Service, serving as headteacher at Ahumahumaso L/A Middle School and later at Akroa Darko L/A Primary School. Six years later, in 1986, he was called into the full-time ministry at Begoro. He studied at the then Pentecost Bible College, now Pentecost University, whiles in ministry.
Apostle Mireku served in various districts, namely Daboase (1986-1991), Asankare (1991-1996), Tepa (1996-2002), Bompata (2002-2008), and Merry Villas in Accra (2008-2013). As an area head, he served at Essam-Debiso Area (2013-2019) and Agona Swedru Area (2019-2024).
He held several positions, including Estate Chairman, Goaso Area (1997-2002), Executive Committee Member, Goaso Area and Asokwa Areas (1997-2002) and (2005-2008), respectively. He was also elected as an Area Executive Committee Member at La Area (2010-2013). In para-church organisations, he served as the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) Ashanti Regional Technical Committee Chairman (2005-2008), Deputy GPCC Zonal Chairman at Essam-Debiso (2015-2018), Chairman of Local Council of Churches at Essam-Debiso (2015-2018), and Ghana Evangelism Committee Chairman for Agona Swedru (2019-2024), among others.
Testimonies
The immediate past Chairman, Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah (Rtd.), congratulated Apostle Mireku and his wife, Mama Elizabeth, for their diligent service. He praised Apostle Mireku as a calm and excellent pastor to work with. He recalled that Apostle Mireku, then a young pastor, was the first minister of The Church of Pentecost to be appointed into government as an Assembly Member at Daboase by the Rawlings regime in the late 1980s.
The General Council extolled his passion for soul-winning and discipleship, his ability to mentor, and his ease in connecting with everyone. They described him as a man of the Word whose teachings and sermons inspire and soothe the soul, saying, ‘His prayer life has been the secret of his ministerial success and has helped many to break through in life.’
