Posts in category: Moving With Chairman

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost and President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has eulogised the Late Apostle Dr Micheal Kwabena Ntumy, describing him as “a man that Heaven greatly loved.”

Delivering a sermon titled “A Man Greatly Loved” at the memorial service for Apostle Ntumy, former Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, at the Forecourt of the State House on Saturday, February 24, 2024, Apostle Nyamekye said: “There was, and there is something between God and Apostle Dr Michael Kwabena Ntumy that we may not understand. But we can say that Heaven loved and loves him; he was and is precious to God.

“Chairman Ntumy was a wonder. He was a wonderful, surprising sign of what God can do. He was greatly loved by The Church of Pentecost.”

Using Prophet Daniel in the Bible as a case study, Chairman Nyamekye emphasised how the Angel Gabriel in the book of Daniel Chapter 9:22-23 and the Angel who came to interpret God’s revelation to Daniel in Daniel 10:10-11 all described the prophet as “Man greatly loved.”

According to him, the angels called Daniel so due to their observation of how Heaven saw and treated him.

Apostle Nyamekye clarified that neither Prophet Daniel’s ability to make great kings and queens bow before God, his great wisdom, strong prayer life, purity, and all other qualities were the reasons Heaven loved him.

However, he believes that God loved Daniel because of his righteousness.

Eulogising the life of Apostle Dr Michael Ntumy, Chairman Eric Nyamekye spoke about how the former Chairman refused to return to Ghana during the war in Liberia on the request of the then Executive Council of the church but chose to put his life on the line for God’s work.

Considering this and the several challenges Apostle Ntumy went through, including surviving multiple accidents, 18 surgeries in 15 years as well as two deliberate food poison attempts on his life, Apostle Eric Nyamekye drew a conclusion that the late Apostle Ntumy loved God and his work, making God also loving him exceptionally.

He stated: “The fact that God loves a person does not insulate him from human predicaments.”

Apostle Ntumy’s memorial service was graced by many prominent persons in Ghana and beyond, including the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Dr Mahmud Bawumia, Former President John Dramani Mahama, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Akosua Frema Osei Opara, Ministers of State and Members of Parliament, heads of Churches and para-church organisations, the members of the Church’s Executive Council, the former Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, among others.

PENTECOST NEWS

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has urged church leaders to think of nations, not just churches, and to have passion and zeal for the gospel.

He made this call at the Missions Board Meeting held at the Pentecost Missions Transit Quarters in Accra on February 20, 2024.

He delivered a sermon on the topic “The Power Of The Scattered Believers”, based on Acts 8:1-8, which narrates the story of how the persecution of the early church led to the scattering of the believers and the spread of the gospel in Samaria.

He said that God can use the scattered servants to change the community and the nation, even in the midst of persecution and opposition.

He commended the International Missions Director and the board members for their good advice and guidance that enabled the church to establish its presence in 19 nations in one year.

The Chairman also challenged the church to be a ‘seeing’ ministry, not just a ‘hearing’ one, and to demonstrate the power of God through signs and wonders.

He said that the church should bring great joy to the broken cities and transform them with love and grace.

 “When there is not great joy in the city, then the city is a broken city. Life comes through scattered servants, whether young, old, or any age between,” he said and encouraged the church to be faithful and courageous in the face of challenges and opposition.

Apostle Nyamekye emphasised the importance of unleashing the potential of every believer, regardless of their age, education, or status, and equipping them for the Great Commission.

He said, “It is not about whether they’re educated or illiterates, not shortness or bigness – what is important is to unleash them, direct them, raise them and let them go.”

He stated that the unleashing business should include children, who are also agents of transformation.

The meeting was attended by the General Secretary of the Church, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, the International Missions Director, Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang Bekoe, Apostle Larri Banimpo (Executive Council Member / National Head for Togo), Apostle James Raj (Executive Council Member / National Head, India), Apostle Miezou Amalanon K. Ernest (President, CoP La Cote D’Ivoire), and Apostle Dr. Lord Elorm Donkor (National Head, CoP UK).

Also present were Pastor George Prah (Member, Missions Board), Elder Dr. Lawyer Ken Aboah (Member, Missions Board), Pastor Emmanuel Appah (Finance and Administration Director, CoP), Elder Prof. Owusu Korankye (Finance Board Chairman) and others.

PENTECOST NEWS.

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost and President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has advised church leaders to seek the peace and prosperity of the nation, especially during an election year.

“When the economy in our nation grows, the churches will also grow. So, seek the peace and prosperity of the land because if it has peace, you too will have peace. We should not excuse ourselves from working for the good of our country because God has linked our peace with its peace, our prosperity with its prosperity,” he said.

The GPCC President made this appeal on Tuesday, February 14, 2024, during the 2024 Heads of Churches and Organisations Conference at the Pentecost Convention Centre, Gomoa-Fetteh, when he delivered a sermon on the topic “The Church: God’s Instrument for Peace and Transformation.”

Drawing from Ephesians 3:1-10, Apostle Nyamekye stressed that “God’s intent is that His wisdom will be made known to rulers and forces that govern nations. We are God’s strategic community to bring transformation to societies. We do that so we can salvage our nations to God. The church isn’t an end in itself; it is a means to an end.”

He further quoted John Baker, saying, “Religion is an escape mechanism to suffering.” He reminded the congregation that “When you are born again, it doesn’t insulate you against suffering. But we came to Jesus because he takes away the sins of the world. Jesus has plans for us. All the plans are wrapped up in his Word.”

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost urged Christians to focus on God’s plans for them rather than being preoccupied with what the devil has against them. He said, “Our future is better than our now because the scripture is true. Go back to the simplicity of the gospel. Christianity is a relationship with Christ.”

Referencing Jeremiah 28:2-4, 10, 15, 17, he encouraged Christians to increase in number, even in foreign lands, and not to be deceived by false prophets. He said, “Life is real, there are no easy roads. As long as the earth remains, there will be planting time and harvest time.”

He also urged Christians to seek the peace and prosperity of their land, saying, “When the economy in our nation grows, the churches will also grow. So, seek the peace and prosperity of the land because if it has peace, you too will have peace. We should not excuse ourselves from working for the good of our country because God has linked our peace with its peace, our prosperity with its prosperity. Churches are strategic partners to bring transformation to the nations.”

Apostle Nyamekye concluded his sermon by reminding the congregation of their role in society.

“We are persons in community. We are shaped in many ways by the environment we find ourselves. Corrupt social structures will make life difficult for all of us. Ministry should be part of society, if we do not care about our society, the devil will have a ‘field day’. Mere independence from colonial rule does not solve our problems. Whether we will enjoy God’s providence depends on how we manage what He has freely given. When we do not manage what He has entrusted to us, we corrupt it and eventually lose it”, he bemoaned.

Apostle Nyamekye further addressed the issue of corruption, stating, “Corruption is a human activity. We all need to help in creating environments in our spheres of operation that will be hostile to corruption.”

He identified incompetence and greed as the two key problems leading to mismanagement and corruption.

He outlined the devastating effects of corruption, saying, “Corruption results in poverty, lack of development, diseases, premature deaths, hopelessness, unemployment. Corruption is a social danger; it facilitates environmental degradation. It destroys nations, future, it undermines honesty and hard work. It also favours the privileged few.”

In his call to action, Apostle Nyamekye urged Christians to move away from corrupt practices and to pray for those who seek the peace of the nation.

He concluded by saying, “The key to the nation’s development lies in the character of its people.”

He emphasised the importance of personal integrity and character in nation-building and societal transformation.

PENTECOST NEWS.

The annual Heads of Churches and Organisations Conference, organised by the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), has commenced at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) in Gomoa-Fetteh.

The three-day event, which began on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, is set to conclude on February 15, 2024.

The conference is being held under the theme “The Church: God’s Instrument For Peace And Transformation” (Ephesians 2:17).

In his address, the GPCC President, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, emphasised the transformative role of the church in society, stating, “The church remains the hope for the manifestation of the glory of God. We cannot limit our focus to just salvation of souls while ignoring the state of society; it is crucial we care about both.”

With the upcoming elections in Ghana, Apostle Nyamekye highlighted the significant role the church plays during such crucial times. He said, “This year, we will be heading to the polls to elect politicians to head Ghana; the role of the church in this crucial time cannot be overestimated. This requires us to provide our best support in any way possible to ensure that the peace of this nation is safeguarded from one election to another.”

Apostle Nyamekye also urged attendees to maintain a stance of non-partisanship, stating, “We must be a part of the solution, not part of the problem.”

He encouraged participants to recommit themselves to their calling as ministers of the gospel and to be agents of reconciliation in a broken world.

The conference features a line-up of distinguished speakers, including Apostle Eric Nyamekye (President, GPCC), Rt. Rev. Gordon Kisseih (1st Vice President, GPCC), and Apostle Dr. Aaron Ami-Narh (2nd Vice President, GPCC).

Among those present were Apostle Emmanuel Tettey (General Secretary, GPCC), Rev. Dr. Francis Sey (Treasurer of GPCC), Apostle General Sam Koranchie Ankrah (Former First Vice President, GPCC), and Bishop Samuel Mensah (Former NEC Member, GPCC), among others.

PENTECOST NEWS.

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has called on officers of the Church to gracefully embrace “Vision 2028” in order to foster the transformation of society.

In his sermon, Apostle Nyamekye emphasised the importance of leadership and vision in the church.

He stated, “God always gives his people leaders. The Vision given to the leader by God is for the whole church, not for a single individual.”

He said this on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, during a presentation on the “Rationale For Theme 2024” during the Takoradi Area Apostolisation service. The event, which began on February 6, 2024, is set to conclude on February 11, 2024.

He praised the officers of The Church of Pentecost, describing them as the custodians of the church.

He said, “Our officers are our most important constituents. Their faithful service has made the church what it is today.”

Apostle Nyamekye urged the officers to own and work with the vision, stating, “We need to imbibe the vision into the officers.”

He discussed the church’s ‘Vision 2028’, which seeks to “unleash the whole church to transform their world with the values and principles of the Kingdom of God.”

He explained the concept of unleashing as “to cause the tremendous power locked up in the church to be released for the transformation of society.”

He added, “We all have power granted to us by God, and we are to release that tremendous power to the world to transform it.”

Apostle Nyamekye stressed the importance of upholding principles in workplaces to prevent corruption.

He explained that transformation takes two forms: the conversion of the soul and the conversion of society through the Gospel.

He emphasised the church’s responsibility to illuminate the world with Kingdom values and principles to combat societal corruption.

The Chairman stressed the importance of lighting up the world with Kingdom values and principles.

He said, “As light of the world, we are to go into the world and light up the world with Kingdom values and principles.”

He reaffirmed that Christ as the ultimate life-transformer and encouraged attendees to embody His teachings in their daily lives.

He concluded by reminding officers of the theme for 2024, “a people of God unleashed to transform their world,” and urged them to live within the values of the Kingdom for the world to see.

He said, “As people of the Kingdom, let us live within the values of the Kingdom for the world to see. We must intentionally raise our children to impact the state.”

PENTECOST NEWS.

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has urged church leaders to embrace change and adhere to established systems to propel the church forward. 

He made this call during the Ministers and Wives session of the Takoradi Area Apostolisation service.

Apostle Nyamekye, in his sermon, emphasised the importance of understanding the dynamics of systems.

He stated: “To comprehend events or processes in any ministry, we need to understand how people work together.”

He further explained that a system is any group of people in regular contact with each other and that all organised human entities exhibit unique dynamics governed by their own rules and interactions.

The Chairman delved into the principles governing systems, stating, “Any action taken by a person in the group will have an effect throughout the entire system.”

He also discussed the inherent resistance to change within systems, pointing out that “systems act to preserve themselves.” indicating the challenges leaders face in implementing change within established structures.

He emphasised the importance of adapting roles, rules, and rituals to support organisational change, asserting changing a system or an organisation’s culture takes commitment, persistence, hard work, and time.

Apostle Nyamekye stressed the necessity for leaders to internalise and embody the vision they seek to instil within their congregations.

The event, which began on February 6, 2024, is set to end on February 11, 2024. It was attended by the wife of the Chairman, Mrs Mary Nyamekye, Apostle Sylvester Arhin (Takoradi Area Head), Apostle Onyinah Gyamfi (Dunkwa Area Head), Apostle Emmanuel Kwesi Osei Fosu (Sefwi Bekwa Area), Apostle ADP James Tetteh (Sekondi Area Head), Elder Prof. Stephen Owusu Korankye (Finance Board Chairman), Apostle Ekow Badu Woode (Rtd) and Apostle Robert Ackon (Rtd).

Ministers and wives in the Sekondi and Takoradi Areas of the Church were also present.

PENTECOST NEWS

The Chairman of The Chuch of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, and his family have funded the construction of a new Mission House for the Asokore District of the Church, in the Ashanti Region. 

Apostle Yaw Adjei-Kwarteng, Kwadaso Area Head and Executive Council Member, dedicated the new manse on February 4, 2024.

The journey to the new Mission House began in May 2022 after attending a funeral at the existing Mission House. He discussed the need for a new Mission House with the then District Pastor, Emmanuel Asamoah Aboagye.

A few months later, a piece of land was acquired at GHS 20,000.00. Apostle Nyamekye contributed GHS 21,000.00 to cover the cost of the land and its registration.

The construction officially began with a sod-cutting ceremony performed by Apostle Keneth Baffoe Antwi, Ejisu Area Head, on September 11, 2022.

Architect Elder Professor Duah from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) revealed the design details of the new Mission House. The 5-bedroom building includes two living rooms, a storeroom, and a guest room. 

The Obuase Area Head of the Church, Prophet David Kankam Beditor, delivered a sermon titled “Unleashed to Live a Life that Reflects God’s Kingdom Values to Transform Your World.”

Drawing some lessons from Matthew 6:33, Prophet Beditor reminded believers that the ultimate aim in life is to go to Heaven. He asserted that the Kingdom of God, found in Jesus Christ, has many principles that followers must adhere to.

Referencing Matthew 5:5-13, the Obuase Area Head highlighted the numerous blessings in the Word of God. 

He pointed out that living by God’s word attracts blessings and makes the Kingdom of God our possession. He urged believers to maintain a pure heart, a prerequisite for seeing God.

Drawing lessons from the Parable of the Prodigal Son, Prophet Kankam Beditor emphasised the themes of reconciliation and restoration. He noted that just as the father in the parable welcomed back his unworthy son, God expects his children to reconcile with others and help those who have strayed from the Kingdom of God.

Present at the service were the wife of the Chairman, Mrs Mary Nyamekye and their family, Apostle Yaw Agyei Kwateng (Ashanti Region RCC Coordinator/ Executive Council Member), Apostle Dr Deudenne Nuekpe (La Area Head/Executive Council Member), Apostle Peter Kofi Dzamekey (Asokwa Area Head), Prophet Samuel Tetteh Doku (New Tafo Area Head), Apostle John Obeng Kesse (Suame Area Head), Apostle Victor K. Asamoah (Bompata Area Head), and Apostle John Appiah Aidoo (Abuakwa Area Head). 

Also present were Apostle Samuel Kwabena Asare (Mampong Area Head), Apostle Daniel Owusu (Konongo Area Head), Apostle Fred Tiakor (Ashanti Bekwai Area Head), Apostle Samuel Edzii Davidson (Offinso Area Head), Apostle Gideon Obeng Darko Debrah (Atonsu Area Head), Apostle Daniel Nsaful (Old Tafo Area Head), Apostle Dr Ignatius Buertey (Asokwa PIWC Resident Minister), Pastor Emmanuel Asamoah Aboagye (Asokore District), Pastor Emmanuel Kyei Boate (Barekese District), Hon. Nana Ayew Afriyie (MP, Effiduase/Asokore Constituency), Elder Nana Amo Tobin (Tobinco Group of Companies), and Elder Nana K. Gyasi (Nana K. Gyasi Co. Ltd.)

PENTECOST NEWS

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost and President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has been recognised as one of the 100 Most Reputable Africans in the 2024 list by Reputation Poll International (RPI).

The annual publication by the leading reputation management and public relations consultancy firm acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields, establishing a robust reputation in the process.

Sharing the spotlight with Apostle Nyamekye is Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, the Inspector General of Police, His Eminence Peter Turkson (Cardinal of the Catholic Church), Pastor Dr. Mensa Otabil (Ghanaian Pastor and Motivational Speaker), HRM Drolor Bosso Adamtey (Suapolor, Se [Shai] Traditional Area), Mrs. Roberta Annan (Ghanaian Businesswoman, Investor and Philanthropist) and Mr. Eric Yirenkyi Danquah (Ghanaian Plant Geneticist).

The compilation spans diverse sectors such as politics, business, entertainment, and human rights advocacy, showcasing a broad array of influential personalities.

Ultimately, the 100 Most Reputable Africans in 2024, alphabetically listed, showcases the resilience and tenacity of the African continent. The compilation draws attention to individuals striving to change the world and improve the lives of others. It serves as both inspiration and a reminder of the multitude of gifted and accomplished individuals shaping the global landscape.

Below is the list of the 100 Most Reputable Africans in 2024:

1. Abderrahmane Sissako || Mauritanian-born Malian Film Director and Producer
2. Abshir Aden Ferro || Somalian Politician
3. Abdul Samad Isyaku Rabiu (CFR CON) || Business Man and Philanthropist
4. Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf || Somalia Judge and Attorney
5. Abdulrazak Gurnah || Tanzanian-British Novelist and Academic
6. Agnes Matilda Kalibata || President of Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA)
7. Alek Wek || South Sudanese-British Model and Designer
8. Angelique Kidjo || Singer & Songwriter and Actress
9. Ann Peacock
10. Armstrong Ume Takakang (Dr) || CEO, Nigeria’s Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI)
11. Berhane Asfaw || Ethiopian Palaeontologist
12. Bience Philomina Gawanas || Namibian Lawyer
13. Catherine Uju Ifejika || Lawyer and Legal Expert
14. Claude Joséphine Rose Cardinal || Italian Actress
15. Constance Connie Ferguson || Filmmaker, Businesswoman
16. Cynthia Davies CBE || CEO of the Diversifying Group
17. Danai Jekesai || Actress
18. Daniël Christiaan de Wet Swanepoel || South-African Professor
19. David Moinina Sengeh || Sierra-Leone Politician
20. Debra Mallowah || Vice President for Coca-Cola’s East and Central African franchise
21. Diébédo Francis Kéré || Architect
22. Denis Mukwege (Dr)|| Pentecostal Pastor and Congolese Gynaecologist
23. Drolor Bosso Adamtey (HRM) || Suapolor, Se (Shai) Traditional Area
24. Ebenezer Bonyah || Associate Professor
25. Elizabeth Maruma Mrema || Biodiversity Leader and Lawyer
26. Eric Nyamekye (Apostle) || Chairman of The Church of Pentecost
27. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf || Former President of Liberia
28. Emmanuel Mark Kembe || South Sudan Musician
29. Eric Yirenkyi Danquah || Ghanaian Plant Geneticist
30. Euvin Naidoo || South African Banking Executive
31. Femi Otedola || Nigerian Businessman and Philanthropist
32. Folorunsho Alakija || Nigerian Businessman                                                                               
33. Fransisco Aupa Indongo || Namibian Businessman and Politician
34. Fred Swaniker || Entrepreneur
35. Gabriel Aduda || Permanent Secretary Ministry of Petroleum Resources Nigeria
36. Gebisa Ejeta ||Ethiopian American Plant Breeder, Geneticist and Professor
37. George Akuffo Dampare (Dr) || Inspector General of Police, Ghana
38. Gideon Boko Duma || Motswana Politician
39. Gilbert Houngbo || Togolese Politician and Diplomat
40. Ibukun Awosika || Chairperson, Board of Directors, First Bank of Nigeria Limited
41. Isatou Ceesay || Gambian Activist and Social Entrepreneur
42. Jeanette Marais || CEO, Momentum Investment
43. Jahman Oladejo Anikulapo || Nigerian Journalist
44. Jean-Jacques Muyembe-Tamfum || Congolese Microbiologist
45. Jimmy Volmink || Dean, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Stellenbosch University
46. Joseph Nyumah Boakai || President of Liberia
47. Juldeh Camara || Musician
48. Julian Kyula || Co-Founder, Board Member, and Group CEO, MoDe
49. Jumoke Oduwole || Special Adviser to the President of Nigeria on Ease of Doing Business in the Office of the Vice President
50. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkellah || Sierra Leonean Agricultural Economist, Politician
51. Kennedy Odede || CEO, Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO)
52. Kenneth Sharpe || Zimbabwean Businessman, Philanthropist
53. Khairy Beshara || Egyptian Film Director
54. Ladisias Prosper Agbesi || CEO, Lash Group
55. Leymah Roberta Gbowee || Liberian Peace Activist
56. Mahmood Mamdani || Ugandan Scholar
57. Manuel Lopes Andrade (Tcheka) || Cape Verdean Singer, Songwriter and Guitarist
58. Masenate Mohato Seeiso (HRM) || Queen of Lesotho
59. Maud Chifamba || Academician
60. Mensa Otabil (Dr) || Ghanaian Pastor and Motivational Speaker
61. Mike Jocktane || Politician and Pastor of Gabonese Protestants
62. Mo Ibrahim || Founder, Mo Ibrahim Foundation  
63. Modupe Adefeso-Olateju || Organisational Leader and Policy Expert
64. Mogoeng Mogoeng || South African Jurist
65. Mohamed Hag Ali Hag el Hassan || Sudanese-Italian Mathematician and Physicist
66. Mohamed Osman Baloola || Sudanese Scientist and Inventor
67. Monique Nsanzabaganwa (Dr) || Deputy Chairperson, African Union Commission
68. Muhammed Bulama (Dr) || Deputy Director, Multi-Media of the APC Presidential Campaign for the 2023 Presidential Elections
69. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah || Namibian Politician
70. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Dr) || Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
71. Nnenna Oti (Prof) || Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Owerri.
72. Nuhu Ribadu mni || Nigerian Politician and retired Police Officer
73. Okello Oculi || Ugandan Novelist, Poet
74. Ory Okolloh || Blogger, Lawyer, and Activist
75. Pedro Verona Rodrigues Pires || Cape Verdean politician
76. Enenche Paul (Dr) || Medical Doctor, Televangelist
77. Peter Turkson (His Eminence) || Ghanaian Prelate, Cardinal of the Catholic Church
78. Polycarp Pengo (His Eminence) || Tanzanian Prelate, Cardinal of the Catholic Church
79. Rachid Yazami || Moroccan Scientist, Engineer and Inventor
80. Dr. Rajae Ghanimi || Medical Doctor
81. Rediet Abebe || Ethiopian Computer Scientist
82. Roberta Annan || Ghanaian Businesswoman, Investor and Philanthropist
83. Rosalia Hausiku Martins || Director, Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry Board
84. Ronald Lamola || Politician and Attorney
85. Rita Oyoku || Entrepreneur
86. Samia Suluhu Hassan || President of Tanzania
87. Sangu Delle (Dr) || Pan-African Entrepreneur and Investor
88. Sherrie Silver || Choreographer
89. Osinachi Kalu Okoro Egbu || Singer &Song Writer
90. Sinari Bolade Daranijo || Entrepreneur
91. Siya Kolisi || South African Rugby Player  
92. Sophia Karen Edem Ackuaku (Hon) || Managing Director, Amsos Ghana Ltd.
93. Sven Thieme || Namibian Businessman
94. Tariye Gbadegesin || CEO, ARM-Harith Infrastructure Investment
95. Sister Theopista Namukasa || Teacher
96. Trevor Noah || Comedian
97. Tom Alweendo || Namibian Politician
98. Vusi Thembekwayo || Businessman, Author, Speaker
99. Wanjira Mathai || Vice President and Regional Director for Africa, World Resources Institute Kenya
100. Zainab Hawa Bangura || Sierra Leonean Politician and Social Activist

PENTECOST NEWS.

The President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) and the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has called on Christians to be authentic by leading lives that reflect the image of Christ.

He made this call at the opening of the GPCC 5-day Discipleship Training on Monday, January 29, 2024, at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa-Fetteh.

He said that the nation does not need more pastors or churches but genuine followers of Christ who can bring transformation to society.

“The greatest need we have in this nation is not many more pastors and churches but authentic Christians, a people like Christ. It is only Jesus Christ that transforms, but until we have people like him, there will be no transformation,” he said.

He urged the participants to rethink what Christianity means and to live it out as a way of life, not just a title or a profession.

He also encouraged them to translate their religiosity into spirituality, which can impact the nation positively.

“We need to rethink Christianity. Christianity is not about titles or pastors but a way of life. Translate your religiosity to spirituality, which brings transformation. If we translate our numbers into real spirituality, we will be a blessing to the nation,” he said.

He quoted various scriptures to emphasise the importance of holding on to the teachings of Jesus Christ and conforming to His image.

He said God’s ultimate purpose for every born-again Christian is to reveal Christ in and through them. He added that God has given them everything they need to transform into the image of His son.

Apostle Nyamekye further explained that the seed of Christ in them gives them the potential to become like Him and that they should nurture and grow that seed by avoiding sin and erasing any mistakes.

“When you sin, it means you have missed the mark. Sin, to us, is a mistake; it is not a weakness. The seed of Christ in you has power over sin. When you miss the mark (make a mistake), do not continue in it, erase it,” he said.

He also shared some practical ways to manifest the image of Christ in their lives and actions. He said that the image or seed of Christ should not just remain in their hearts but must be seen in their body, as seen in 2 Corinthians 4:10-11. “People should think they have come to Jesus when they are around you. If Christ is in you, let Him be manifested in your body”, he revealed.

He added that to be able to do the works of God, they just need to believe in Jesus.

The Chairman cited Ephesians 4:11-13 and Ephesians 3:14-19 to stress the importance of teaching and prayer as the two major agents of transformation. He said that the scriptures and prayer should work hand in hand to help them grow in Christ.

He quoted Luke 4:20-22 and Colossians 2:2-3 to illustrate how Christlikeness should be holistic and affect every part of their body.

He said that growing into the image of Christ must also include growing in wisdom and knowledge and that the wisdom needed to deal with the affairs of life is found in the seed of Christ planted in them.

“When you say you are a good Christian, it doesn’t mean walk sanctimoniously, but rather Christ must be manifested in your body. In your normal conversation, gracious words must come out of your mouth”, he added.

Apostle Eric Nyamekye said that to become more and more like Christ, they should be like Him in power and in deed, and have power over sin and evil forces. He said that being a disciple is to be all like Christ is.

“When you are like Christ, do not think you will not suffer in life, but in the midst of all that, be able to shine like stars in the sky”, he encouraged.

“Unless we surrender our crowns, Christlikeness will be difficult to achieve”, he concluded.

The Discipleship Training is for all pastors, ministry leaders and church leaders. It is being held under the theme: Launching Transformational Disciples Movement.

The event is being organised in collaboration with the Keystone Project in the USA, under the leadership of Richard Warren Greene (Founder/President, Keystone Project – USA).

The seminar began on Monday, January 29 and is expected to end on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, has re-emphasised the need for Christians to think and behave as people with eternity and the future in mind.

Addressing the ministers and wives of The Church of Pentecost across the world at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) near Gomoa Fetteh, on the characteristics of the church unleashed, the Chairman iterated that it is not enough to say the church is unleashed when what it means has not been digested well.

“Teach the members what it means to be in the fortress of the church and what it means to impact the world. Teach them to see their work as a calling. They are a royal priesthood called to minister at their workplace,” he advised.

Apostle Nyamekye called on believers to practice whatever they learn in church, saying, “Church is about practising what you have learnt. There is so much life and power in scripture that teaching it can change situations. God’s word must shape the conscience of every Christian and let everything be scrutinised by scripture.”

He opined that righteousness serves as the basis of every society and nation. Apostle Nyamekye thus said the Church has a great task to perform in this regard.

“As a church unleashed, let’s find out what unique ministries we can embark on in society. We must target groups in the community for ministry,” he said, adding, “It is not about our seating capacity but sending capacity. We must send our members to minister outside the church’s walls.”

Citing Daniel as a case study, Apostle Nyamekye declared that Daniel did not just stick to religiosity but transferred it into spirituality. He defined spirituality as ‘the manifestation of the Spirit of Christ in your life’.

He reiterated the call for Christians to see their secular works as sacred because God, who is interested in the church, is also interested in banking, academia, and politics.

“Your secular work is as important as the clergy. God has gifted us with different graces and abilities, so use your abilities to do ministry. The Holy Spirit is still in you when you go to your workplace. You can’t say this one is secular. Everything is an act of worship,” he disclosed.

Spicing his exposition with sketches (short movies) on real-life situations, Apostle Nyamekye drove home the point that politicians only think of the next election, but Christians must think about the future of the nation and life in eternity. He said this mindset and attitude will make the Church concerned about the development of the nations and holy living.

Apostle Nyamekye advanced that the church must get into the affairs of society; otherwise, its light will not be felt, saying, “What is the use of light if it cannot penetrate the darkness?”

He made a passionate call for daily congregational prayers for the nations where the church operates. 

He cautioned against a lopsided approach to ministry where some churches focus on souls or social services.

“The church unleashed is involved in both soul-winning and social services because persons are not isolated individuals but embedded in society,” he instructed.

Apostle Eric Nyamekye asked Christians to work to revere God and avoid giving excuses.

He directed that every member of the church should be unleashed and assigned a ministry where they live and work.

“People progress when they are in frontline ministry. Get them unleashed to do ministry everywhere for their spiritual growth,” he concluded.

PENTECOST NEWS