Pentecost Convention Centre Gets New Board

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With ChairmanMoving With GsMoving With IMDTop Stories

A ten-member board chaired by Apostle Sylvester Arhin (Executive Council Member and Tamale Area Head) of The Church of Pentecost has been inaugurated to oversee the operations of the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), a multi-purpose Christian retreat and event centre, located at Gomoa Fetteh, near Kasoa.

Other members of the board are Apostle James Kwabena Asare (Kasoa Area Head), Apostle Lawrence Otu-Nyarko (Finance and Administration Director of the church), Pastor Prince Odoom (Centre Manager), and Pastor James Orhin Agyin (Projects Development & Estate Manager of the church).

The rest are Elder Robert Mensah (PIWC-Sunyani), Elder Augustine Sarpong (PIWC-Atomic), Lawyer Benjamin Ampoma-Boateng (PIWC-Kokomlemle), Deaconess Mary Ankomah Sarpong (Madina District) and Mrs Diana Frema Nyarko (Headquarters).

Inaugurating the board at the General Headquarters of the church at La, Accra on Tuesday, September 6, 2022, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, thanked members of the board for accepting to serve the church in that capacity.

According to the Chairman, though they were carefully chosen based on their expertise and experiences, they should see it as pure grace, having been selected out of the millions of members to contribute their quota to the growth of the church.

He noted that The Church of Pentecost is doing great largely due to the fervent prayers coupled with laid-down administrative structures.

He said that boards and committees are some of the structures that are helping the church to thrive.

Apostle Nyamekye charged the board to bring to bear their rich knowledge, expertise and experiences to take the PCC to another level.

He further urged them to ensure that the purpose of constructing the Convention Centre is kept in focus.

“The Pentecost Convention Centre was built for a purpose. The purpose is to make the place a retreat centre. Therefore, the ambiance at the place should look like a Christian retreat centre, and the presence of God should be felt there,” he said, adding, “This purpose must be jealously guarded.”

Reading from Ephesians 4:16, he entreated them to work in love and collaboration with other sectors of the church.

In response, the Board Chairman, Apostle Sylvester Arhin, gave thanks to God for the opportunity to serve the church. He promised to bring their God-given knowledge and expertise to bear to effectively run the Centre.

He also commended his predecessors for the good work done.

As part of the functions of the board, it is to develop policies that will help the Centre Manager to manage and run the facility in a sustainable manner; publicise the existence of the Centre to engender greater patronage, and make the place secure and user-friendly to patrons.

In attendance were Apostles Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi and Emmanuel Agyemang Bekoe, the General Secretary and the International Missions Director of the church, respectively.

PENTECOST NEWS.

GPCC Inducts Apostle Okuley Tettey As New General Secretary

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With ChairmanMoving With GsTop Stories

History was made in the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) as Apostle Immanuel Nii Okuley Tettey, Director of Administration of The Apostolic Church-Ghana, was inducted into the office of General Secretary of the Council.

Apostle Immanuel Nii Okuley Tettey takes over from Reverend Dr. Emmanuel Teimah Barrigah of the Global Evangelical Church, who has served the Council for the past five years.

A memorable farewell and induction service was held on Saturday, August 27, 2022, at the Global Evangelical Church, Adonai Chapel in Madina.

In his welcome address, the President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), who doubles as the President of Assemblies of God Ghana, Rev. Prof. Paul Frimpong-Manso revealed that with the support of the National Executive Council, the transformational leadership of Rev. Dr. Barrigah did not only unite the churches but impacted positively in the close working relationships with Sister Councils.

“During the campaign for the “Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill” you worked together with promoters of the Bill to mobilise the GPCC family across the country to present Memoranda, including your physical appearance at the Parliamentary Select Committee’s sittings to defend our position in favour of the Bill,” Rev. Prof. Frimpong-Manso added.

Sermon

Delivering the sermon on the topic, “The True Value Of Our Work Is With The Lord,” the 2nd Vice President of GPCC, who doubles as Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye admonished the clergy to eschew unnecessary complaints associated with their ministries and work in the Lord.

“Stop complaining, you may never know how far reaching the river of life in you is flowing and who it is blessing,” Apostle Nyamekye cautioned, urging them to be fountains through which the life of Jesus can flow through like rivers of waters to bless others. 

The Chairman further said that to fulfil God’s assignment on earth, Christians must stay connected to Jesus, the source of the living water, so that the rivers of life will constantly flow through them in blessing others, adding, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

He, then, encouraged Rev. Dr. Barrigah and Apostle Tettey to look up to God and not to men who only distract the call of God.

Profile of Apostle Tettey

Immanuel Nii Okuley Tettey, was called into the Ascension Ministry of The Apostolic Church-Ghana as an Assistant Pastor in 2009, and ordained as a non-salaried Pastor in 2012, all in the Tema Community 5 Assembly of the Church. In 2015, he moved to into the full-time ministry and served at Asylum Down Assembly.

Before his appointment as General Secretary, Apostle Tettey, was the Director of Administration of The Apostolic Church-Ghana, from 2021, a role he executed exceptionally. He had earlier worked as the Personal Assistant to the President of The Apostolic Church-Ghana (2015 -2019), and the Administrative Manager (2019-2021).

As an institutional pillar, he has concurrently worked as a Development Planning, Institutional and Organisation Development (I/OD) Expert with over 25 years post-qualification experience in Public Administration, Institutional Capacity Building and Local Governance. 

Former National Executives of the Council, were also honoured for meritoriously serving for years.

Present were Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi (General Secretary), Prophet David Kankam Beditor (Ashaiman Area Head & Executive Council Member), Apostle Samuel Yaw Antwi (Cape Coast Area Head & Former GPCC General Secretary), and Apostle Lawrence Otu-Nyarko (Finance & Administrative Director, COP).

Others were Apostle Martin Seth Appiah (Madina Area Head), Apostle Lt. Col. Benjamin Kumi-Woode (Director of Religious Affairs, Ghana Armed Forces), Apostle Abraham Swanzy (National Director, Ghana Evangelism Committee), and Apostle Ekow Badu-Woode Rtd. (Former GPCC General Secretary).

PENTECOST NEWS.

Apostle Asante Ends Service In Koforidua Area After 4 Years

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With GsTop Stories

The Koforidua Area of The Church of Pentecost has held a farewell service in honour of Apostle Samuel Osei Asante, the outgoing Area Head and an Executive Council Member of the church, and his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Osei Asante, after 4 years.

The glorious service which was held yesterday at the Central Tabernacle in Koforidua, was officiated by the General Secretary of the church, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi.

Many well-wishers, royals, government officials, ministers in various para-church organisations, ministers of the church, and members attended to demonstrate their love for the out-going Area and his family.

Delivering a sermon on the topic, “But As For You Man Of God,” Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi admonished men of God to avoid being entangled in vices of the world because of the name upon them.

“There are certain things we must flee from; some vices we ought to flee from and pursue virtue, and determine to avoid certain people and characters if we want to maintain our standards as men of God,” Apostle Kumi-Larbi stated.

Reading from Hebrews 11:24-27, the General Secretary said that Moses was the only one referred to as a ‘Man of God’ in the Torah (5 Books of Moses) because he refused the false identity, chose to be mistreated with God’s people, placed value on certain things and considered the reproach of Christ, urging Christians to have priorities in knowing the things to refuse and those to choose.

The out-going Eastern Regional Co-ordinating Committee Chairman was welcomed in the Area on September 23, 2022, after taking over from the now Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye.

Apostle Samuel Osei Asante is described as a man of integrity, who demonstrated a lot of humility in his relationship with people during his stay in Koforidua. He showed skill, maturity and sensitivity in dealing with others, especially in difficult situations.

Through the four-year leadership style of Apostle Asante, he was seen to be a man of the Word. He showed much passion and purposefulness in the completion of any task he apportioned to do in the Area. He was also a team player, who fostered good relationships with all his minsters and their families.

During his tenure as Area Head, he personally contributed immensely to the construction of the new ultra-modern Area Mission House and other district projects. Among such projects are the New Juaben, Kwamoso, Akropong, Mile 14 and Okorase district mission houses and church buildings.

The Koforidua Area Women’s Ministry described Mrs Elizabeth Osei Asante as a woman of prayer. Her teachings in God’s word demonstrates how deeply rooted she is in the Word of God. These qualities were seen in her assistance in the introduction of the bi-monthly Area (Zonal) prayers into the Women’s Ministry.

“Her regular visits and teachings to the Ministry at all levels encouraged most of the women to attend meetings. Her smiles and hospitality drew many people, especially the women, to her,” it stated.

The Aburi Amankralo, Elder Nana Otopah Boateng III, on behalf of the traditional leaders enstooled Apostle Asante as the “Nkosuohene” of The Church of Pentecost for his dedicated service towards the church and the chiefs.

Apostle Samuel and Mrs. Elizabeth Osei Asante, are leaving the Koforidua Area in the Eastern Region to the Kaneshie Area in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana.

In his response, Apostle Asante expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the leadership of the church for their thoughtfulness and support throughout his four-year stay in Koforidua. He further donated GHS¢20,000 to the Koforidua Area, to support their activities and projects.

Gracing the occasion were Nana Ampem Darkoa (Dabanhene Abiriw), Nana Ansa Sasraku (Aburi Akwamu Gyaasehene), Nene Tei Korle (Koforidua Korle Nkwanta Odikuro), Manya Nene Nyomo (Divisional Queenmother Somanya), Nana Kwarfo Asante (Adanse Abuasuhene), and Elder Nana Odei Asiedu (Larteh Krontihene).

Also present were Apostle Samuel Yaw Antwi (Cape Coast Area Head and Executive Council Member), Apostle Francis Yaw Adu (Nsawam Area Head), Apostle Seth Kwaku Asomaning (Akim Oda Area Head), Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi (Asamankese Area Head), Apostle Samuel Nana Yaw Agyei (Kade Area Head), Mrs Brigetta Adjei Kwarteng (wife of Bompata Area Head), and Mrs Philomina Mireku (Women’s Ministry Director)

PENTECOST NEWS

Apostle Anthony Ekuban Donates GH ₵20,000 To Suhum Area

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With GsTop Stories

Members within the Suhum Area of The Church of Pentecost could not hide their joy as their immediate past Area Head, Apostle Anthony Eghan Kwesi Ekuban (retired), donated GH₵ 20,000.00 of his retirement benefits to support the work of God in the Area.

He donated the amount during a retirement service held in his honour on Sunday, August 21, 2022, at the L. A. Nyarko Memorial Sanctuary in Suhum.

In an interview with PENTECOST NEWS, Apostle Ekuban said that the presentation was done to help support the activities and projects of the Area and further encourage the members to serve God well. 

As a former Chairman of the Suhum Local Council of Churches, Apostle Ekuban (retired) used his position to unite the body of Christ in the municipality. Through his influence, the various ecumenical bodies have forged a stronger force to promote the Kingdom of God in Suhum and its environs.

The retired Suhum Area Head was called into the full-time ministry of The Church of Pentecost in 1986 and served in nine duty stations of the church. He began his ministerial journey at Nsawkaw (1986-1990); Nkrankwanta (1990-1992); Sunyani West (1992-1997), and New Tafo (1997-2000). He was called into missions in 2000 and served as a Missionary in Tanzania (2000-2007). Having been called into the office of Apostle, he was recalled home and sent to Wa as Area Head (2007-2011). He was  later posted to Goaso Area (2011-2014), Anyaa-Ablekuma (2014-2017), and Suhum Area (2017-2022).

The General Secretary applauded Apostle Anthony Kwesi Eghan Ekuban for serving meritoriously as a minister of the church, and for his kind gesture.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Education Minister Calls On The Church Of Pentecost Leadership

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With ChairmanMoving With GsTop Stories

The Minister for Education, Honourable Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, today (August 23, 2022), paid a courtesy call on the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, at the Church’s General Headquarters, in Accra.

According to the Minister of Education, the visit marks the beginning of his “listening tour” to dialogue with religious leaders in Ghana to find out their assessment of the various policies introduced by his ministry and how they could be improved to better serve the needs of the citizenry.

“Churches have mission schools that provide support and ensure the success of the educational system in Ghana. Many things are happening in the educational space, such as the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) High Schools built across the country, which I have the wonderful opportunity of briefing the Church about,” Hon. Dr. Adutwum stated.

He further stated that the Education Ministry is operationalising a major transformation in the sector to make it fit for its purpose, and in so doing, transform the fortunes of the country.

Hon. Adutwum added that his engagement with religious leaders also provides him with a unique opportunity to court the support of religious leaders, who are also key stakeholders in the sector, in his quest to transform the educational system.

He, therefore, thanked the leadership of the Church for the warm reception accorded him and also lauded the Church for its immense contribution to the transformation of Ghana and the world at large.

The Chairman, who described the initiative as “a step in the right direction,” commended the minister for acknowledging religious bodies as major key stakeholders in the educational sector, and making the necessary effort to engage with them.

He explained that human beings, as managers of the earth, need to be educated to understand and effectively and efficiently manage their environment.

He also praised him for the good work he is doing to champion education, which according to him, is very key to the development of any country.

“You are a good ambassador of The Church of Pentecost and we, as a Church, are very proud of you for attaining the level of a sector minister in the country,” he said.

He further encouraged the Minister to continue to introduce great and innovative ideas to transform the sector and to take advantage of the media to share with the citizenry the work he is doing in the educational space.

Present were Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi (General Secretary), Apostle Lawrence Otu-Nyarko (Finance & Administrative Director, COP), Apostle Vincent Anane-Denteh (Men’s Ministry Director), Pastor Prof. William Otoo Ellis (Children’s Ministry Director), Elder Richard Amaning (Pentecost Social Services, PENTSOS Director), and Mrs. Eunice Anima Pumpuni, (Institutional Development and Support Manager, PENTSOS).

PENTECOST NEWS.

Apostle Eghan Ekuban Bows Out After 36 Years In Ministry

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With GsTop Stories

The L.A. Nyarko Memorial Sanctuary in Suhum, yesterday could not contain the well-wishers, ministers, and members of The Church of Pentecost and beyond, as Apostle Anthony Kwesi Eghan Ekuban, Suhum Area Head, and his wife, Mrs. Jennifer Ekuban, retired from the full-time ministry of the church after 36 years of meritorious service.

The General Secretary of the church, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, officiated the memorable retirement service. He was strongly supported by the Coordinator for the Eastern Regional Coordinating Committee, who doubles as the Area Head of Koforidua, Apostle Samuel Osei Asante.

Anthony Eghan Kwesi Ekuban, was born on March 24, 1957 at Bremang Asikuma in the Central Region of Ghana to Opanyin Francis Eghan Ekuban (deceased) and Madam Mary Appiah. He had his basic education at Bremang Asikuma Primary School. He proceeded to Oninku Drive No. 2 Middle School in Tema in 1972 where he obtained the Middle School Leaving Certificate (MSLC).

Before his call into the full-time ministry of The Church of Pentecost, in 1986, he worked with Sterling Products as Quality Control Manager. While in active ministry, he served in nine administrative stations of the church. They are Nsawkaw (1986- 1990); Nkrankwanta (1990 – 1992); Sunyani West (1992 – 1997); and New Tafo (1997 – 2000). Between 2000 and 2007, he was sent as a National Head and Missionary to Tanzania and returned to Ghana as an Area Head in Wa (2007 – 2011); Goaso (2011 – 2014); Anyaa Ablekuma (2014 – 2017) and Suhum (2017 – 2022).

He served as the Chairman of Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council in Suhum (2019- 2022) and Chairman of the Local Council of Churches (LCC), Suhum (2020- 2022).

Apostle Anthony Eghan Ekuban is married to Mrs. Jennifer Ekuban, with whom they have four children and nine grandchildren.

Delivering the sermon on the topic, “The God We Worship,” using Psalm 86:8-10 as scriptural reference, the Koforidua Area Head of the church, Apostle Asante indicated that despite we living in a world where so many people claim to know God, their lives speaks otherwise.

He said that we worship the God of the Bible who through His words, created the heavens and the earth.

Therefore, he urged those who do not know God to endeavour to accept and do the will of God, saying, “God exists and never changes; He is the creator of the world who is still in the business of creating; he is eternal, incomprehensible but knowable.”

According to him, in our quest to worship God, He revealed Himself in three dimensions, which are being in the form of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

The Executive Council Member stated that “worship is the praise, adoration, and reverence of God both in public and private,” adding, “it is a celebration of the worthiness of God by which honour is given to His name.”

The testimony of the General Council described Apostle Ekuban as a disciplined and hardworking man of God. According to them, he demonstrated empathy towards all who engaged with him.

“With his evangelistic enthusiasm, Apostle A.E.K. Ekuban submits to the will of God in winning souls into His Kingdom,” the testimony stated.

The Suhum Area Women’s Ministry also described Mrs Jennifer Ekuban as a woman of prayer who constantly stood on her feet for long hours in prayers, which is indeed remarkable, saying, “She is humble, kind, and respectful towards everyone. She is polite and patient in dealing with people and issues, hence a unifier and great team player.”

“Apostle Ekuban is an innovative leader who always seeks better ways to push boundaries and break new grounds. Under his leadership, the relationship between the church and other churches has moved to a new pedestal,” the Suhum Area Presbytery stated…

Poised as a man who exhibited servant-leadership, the Area Pastorate of Suhum further described Apostle Ekuban as a leader who brought a lot of transformation to the area. According to the testimony, he was greatly concerned about the welfare of the brilliant-but-needy students in the area and improved upon the enrolment drive of beneficiaries of the area scholarship scheme.

Gracing the occasion were Barima Amoako Kokra Boame (Kokorasehene), Owoabrempong Odi Agyeibea (Kokorasehemaa), Nana Konadu Kontie (Homosuhemaa), among other chiefs and traditional leaders in Suhum.

Also present were Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi (Asamankese Area), Prophet Foster Aniakwaa (Nkawkaw Area), Apostle Daniel Yeboah Nsaful (Koforidua Effiduase Area), Apostle Seth Kwaku Asomaning (Akim Oda Area), Apostle Victor Asamoah (Afram Plains Area), Apostle Samunel Nana Yaw Agyei (Kade Area), Apostle Yaw Adu (Nsawam Area), Mrs Grace Gakpetor (wife of Agormanya Area Head), and Dcns. Beatrice Kwafo (former Women’s Ministry Director).

In their response, Apostle Anthony Eghan Ekuban (Retired) and his family expressed their utmost thanks to God and the leadership of the church for their continuous support throughout their 36 years of ministry.

The General Secretary lauded Apostle Anthony Ekuban for meritoriously serving diligently, saying, “Well done!”

PENTECOST NEWS

Prisons Directorate Calls On The Church of Pentecost Leadership

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With GsTop Stories

A three-member delegation from the Ghana Prisons Service yesterday paid a courtesy call on the leadership of The Church of Pentecost at the Church’s Headquarters at La in Accra.

The team, led by Mr. Isaac Kofi Egyir, the Director General of the Ghana Prisons Service, were received by Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi (General Secretary, The Church of Pentecost), Apostle Lawrence Otu-Nyarko (Finance and Administration Director, The Church of Pentecost-Headquarters), and Pastor Prof. William Otoo Ellis (Children’s Ministry Director of the Church), on behalf of the Chairman of the Church, Apostle Eric Nyamekye.

The purpose of the visit, according to Mr. Isaac Egyir, was to express his outfit’s appreciation to The Church of Pentecost for its continued support to the Prisons Service, especially in the area of infrastructural development, and to explore future collaborative efforts.

The visit was also to finalise details on the official commissioning and handing over of a correctional facility constructed by the Church. The project is part of efforts to assist the government in solving the challenge of overcrowding in Ghanaian prisons.

Mr Egyir also revealed that the Service has introduced an outreach and community engagement initiative, dubbed the “Stay Out of Trouble” campaign, targeted at schools and churches. The initiative, among other things, seeks to educate the citizenry, particularly children and youth, on crimes and its consequences.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi, on his part, thanked the delegation for the visit and assured the team of the Church’s commitment to ensuring the welfare, reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of prison inmates to make them responsible, productive and law-abiding members of society.

The Director-General was accompanied by Elder Dr. Francis Omane-Addo (Director of Prison Welfare and Human Resource) and Rev. Canon S. S. Adoma-Okine (Chaplain General of Ghana Prisons Service).

PENTECOST NEWS.

The Church Of Pentecost-Canada Organises Retreat For Church Leaders

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With GsMoving With IMDTop Stories

A two-day leadership retreat (Apostolisation) has been organised for ministers, ministers’ wives and officers of The Church of Pentecost (COP) in Canada.

The event, which took place from July 29 to 30, 2022, in Edmonton, Alberta, had the General Secretary of the Church, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, and the International Missions Director (IMD), Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang Bekoe as main speakers.

The retreat was hosted by the National Head of COP-Canada, Apostle Ransford Obeng Gyamfi, and drew participants from Western Canada and across the nation, including the various Heads of the Church in Canada; namely Apostle Dr. James McKeown Quainoo, Apostle Daniel Nii Lomotey Engmann, Apostle Dr. Alex Agyei-Gyamera, Apostle Joseph Christian Fynn-Sackey and Pastor George Zephaniah Amon.

Speaking on the topic “My Father My Father” (2 Kings 2:11-12) at the Ministers and Wives session on Friday, July 29, Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang-Bekoe reiterated the importance of fatherhood in “possessing the nations” agenda of the church. 

According to the IMD, fathers are a great help to their children and therefore encouraged ministers to play fatherly roles in the lives of the church members. 

Quoting from 1 Corinthians 4:15, the IMD said that the need for fathers in the church cannot be overemphasised as Paul was a father to many in the Corinthian church.

Apostle Agyemang-Bekoe further noted that fatherhood as a concept does not die, saying, “this is why when the dead body fell on the bones of Elisha, he resurrected.”

The IMD also spoke on what Heads expect from ministers and their spouses and vice versa.

Apostle Agyemang Bekoe spoke on “Keeping the Fire Burning” (Leviticus 6:9, 12-13) during the Saturday session of the retreat held for officers and ministers and wives.

Drawing from the Old Testament way of sacrifice with the altar and censer, the IMD explained the importance of maintaining the Holy Spirit fire in the church. 

He indicated that ministers and officers must be consumed on the altar for them to be burnt before they can go up (excel in service).

He said that it is the duty of the ministers and officers to remove all the ashes, which represents the weaknesses of the church, from the altar, explaining that “allowing the ashes to remain will impede the flames.”

Apostle Agyemang Bekoe also indicated that it behoves them to add more firewood (teaching on the Holy Spirit) so that fire on the altar would continue to blaze.

As the original fire came from the Lord, the IMD cautioned church leaders to be wary of strange and fake fires from questionable sources, notwithstanding the fact that the COP is part of the larger army of Jesus Christ (the Body of Christ).

Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang-Bekoe also explained the significance of the spices (myrrh, onycha, galbanum, and pure frankincense) used in the censer at the altar of fire. 

The IMD explained that the myrrh, which the wise man presented to Jesus Christ at birth, stands for preservation. 

He further noted that the purpose of onycha is for soothing and nourishment, while galbanum performs a dual purpose as a flavouring agent and wounds healer.

“Similarly, the frankincense served as a pain killer that makes a person younger,” he added.

Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, in turn, reiterated the importance of keeping the fire of the Holy Spirit burning in the church by encouraging ministers and officers to read and meditate on Leviticus 6 to 9.  

According to the General Secretary, when ministers are consecrated to go and minister, they need to be guided by the rules of conduct in order not to be like the sons of Aaron who offered strange fire and were cut off by the LORD. 

He emphasised the need for ministers and officers to be conversant with the Ministers’ Manual, Church Constitution, Rules of Conduct, and the Ministerial Welfare Practices to be able to work effectively and efficiently. 

Apostles Kumi-Larbi and Agyemang-Bekoe also discussed the key features that make The Church of Pentecost distinctive.

The General Secretary and the IMD also highlighted some aspects of the rules of conduct and key characteristics of The Church of Pentecost brand, respectively.

Report by Pastor Frederick Appah, Winnipeg District

Apostle & Mrs Quainoo Retire From Active Ministry After 23 Years

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With GsMoving With IMDTop Stories

A colourful retirement service was held in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, for the Western Canada Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr. James McKeown, and his wife, Emily, who have brought their 23-year ministerial service to a glorious end.  

The event was officiated by the General Secretary of the Church, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, with support from Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang-Bekoe (International Missions Director), Apostle Michael Agyemang-Amoako (RCC Coordinator, Americas) and Apostle Ransford Obeng-Gyamfi (National Head, COP-Canada). 

Also present were Apostle Daniel Engmann (North York Area Head), Apostle Dr. Alex Agyei-Gyamera (Scarborough Area Head), Apostle Joseph Fynn-Sackey (Alberta Area Head), Pastor George Amon (British Columbia Area Head), the pastorate and their wives in Canada and other officers of the church. 

Over 600 participants attended the ceremony, including Apostle A. K. Miah (Rtd.), a former National Head of Canada, Pastor David Dompreh (Rtd.), Pastor Nicholas Ameyaw (Rtd.), Hon. Kelly McCauley (MP Edmonton West), Hon. Jon Havelock (former Alberta Justice Minister), Major Felix Tachie (Senior Clinical Chaplain, Canadian Armed Forces Health Services Centre), and Nana John Ankamah (Chief of Drobo Area, Ghana). 

Many ministers from sister churches in the community and community leaders also graced the service.

The General Secretary, Apostle Kumi-Larbi, preached on the topic “See that You Fulfill the Ministry that You Have Received” (Colossians 4:7). 

In his sermon, Apostle Kumi-Larbi stressed that each Christian has received a gifting, talent, or grace from the Lord (1 Corinthians 12:4-7; Ephesians 4:7; Romans 12).  

These giftings or graces, he further noted, comes from Christ and should be manifested towards the common good of the church and mankind, not their own benefit.

“If a person does not focus on what God has given them, they look at the peripherals – titles, fame, money, power, authority, thereby missing the mark,” he said.

According to the General Secretary, like Demas, some people are not able to finish their ministry well due to a lack of concentration on the work God has assigned to them, conflict with others, fighting leaders of the church, immorality, financial issues, bitterness, complacency, and burnouts resulting from discouragement (2 Timothy 4).

Apostle Kumi-Larbi, therefore, urged believers to concentrate on the call of God with unconditional obedience, and diligence, and wholeheartedly serve the Master (John 2:5). 

“Do not get distracted like Demas, but be like Paul, Timothy, Titus, Archippus, and others who completed their ministries,” he said while referring to John 2:5 and 2 Timothy 4:7-8. 

Apostle Kumi-Larbi, however, noted that not all who start the race finish. 

To finish one’s ministry well, the General Secretary advised believers to concentrate on the grace or gift they have received from God, remain connected to the God who called them, not confer with flesh and blood (Galatians 1:15-18) and fight the good fight by putting on the full armour of God despite dangers (2 Corinthians 4:8-10; 2 Corinthians 9).

He also advised them to get rid of any excess luggage (sin, worldliness, etc. Hebrews 12:1-3); and guard or hold on to the unadulterated faith until the Master says ‘well done”. 

The IMD presented a Certificate of Service plaque to the retiring minister on behalf of the General Council. 

In a testimony read on its behalf at the event, the General Council eulogised Apostle Dr. Quainoo “for raising leaders has been a key aspect of his ministry. One of his key preoccupations in each station where he has served has been to ensure that both presbyters and members are well equipped to take up leadership roles. His contribution toward strengthening the acumen of the leadership of the church is very noteworthy.”  

The retiring couple was also presented citations by the Western Canada Area Presbytery, Women’s Ministry, and Ghanaian-Canadian Ministers Fellowship of Toronto.

Apostle Dr. James McKeown Quainoo was called into full-time ministry in 1999 after serving as Field Assistant in Vancouver. He has since devoted himself to the service of God and The Church of Pentecost in Canada for the past 23 years.

He pioneered the planting of the church in Vancouver and performed scouting duties for the churches in Calgary and Edmonton. These churches have now been well-established and grown to become integral districts for British Columbia and Alberta areas, respectively. 

His ministry work took him and his family to districts in Hamilton, PIWC North York, Montreal, McKeown (North York), and currently Western Canada, where he served as a Probationary Overseer, District Pastor, Area Head and an Apostle. 

He also served on many boards and committees in the Church in Canada, including as National Executive Council Member (1997-2022), National Secretary (2001-2006), and National Trustees Board Member (2001- 2022).

Other appointments he received in the course of the ministry are National Youth & Children’s Ministry Pastor (2002- 2004), National Youth Leader (2004-2006), National Youth Ministry Patron (2006- 2022), PIWC restructuring Committee Chairman (2013-2014), Constitution Review Committee Chairman (2015-2022), among several others.

Together with his wife, Mrs. Emily Quainoo, they established the first young ladies’ wing in Canada called the “Radiant Ladies” (now Virtuous Ladies). 

Mrs. Emily Quainoo also served on the National Children’s Ministry Executive Committee from 2005 to 2015 as the Deputy National Leader. She helped to compile a Sunday School Teachers training manual as well as a manual for teaching children with Special Needs. 

Under her leadership, the Canadian version of the Women’s Ministry’s syllabus was written and published. She also organised numerous ladies’ prayer conferences in every district and Area she served.  

She is also described as very hospitable, prayerful, a worshipper, a singer, a gifted song writer and a published author.

As part of the service, Apostle Joseph Fynn Sackey and Pastor George Amon were inducted into office as Area Heads for Alberta Area and British Columbia Area, respectively.

Report by Richard Kofi Adjei (Pentmedia Canada)

Make The Grace Of God Profitable – Apostle Kumi-Larbi To Christians

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With GsTop Stories

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, has advised Christians, particularly church leaders, to work hard to ensure the grace (gifts) they have received in the Lord produces the intended effect.

Apostle Kumi made this passionate appeal to Christians yesterday during his ministration at the ongoing National Prayer Conference at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

Speaking on the topic: “Making the Grace of God Profitable,” based on 1 Corinthians 15:10 and 2 Corinthians 6:1, the General Secretary of the Church asserted that the grace of God is received in vain when the recipients live or conduct themselves in an unworthy manner so that it nullifies its effect.

“When Christians are influenced by the evil of the world around them, it nullifies the grace of God they have been given. Christians are, therefore, to come out from the evils of society and be separate” he said.

He explained that the opportunity to become children of God is a calling received through grace in Christ, hence, Christians must endeavour to make profitable use of it.

He further noted that, unlike a career, job or profession that involves prolonged training and formal qualification, a calling is a strong inner impulse toward a particular course of action, especially when accompanied by a conviction of divine influence.

“So, to excel in our calling, we have received grace, which is the unmerited favour of God, so that we can better serve and glorify God,” he said.

Elaborating on the grace of God, the General Secretary said that Grace, which he described as an essential part of God’s character, is variously defined as “God’s favour toward the unworthy” or “God’s benevolence on the undeserving.” 

He further indicated that Grace is closely related to God’s benevolence, love, and mercy. 

According to him, one of the greatest ways that God shows grace to humanity is through the forgiveness of sins after their heartfelt repentance and submission to His laws. 

He added: “In His grace, God is willing to forgive us and bless us abundantly, even though we don’t deserve to be treated so well or dealt with so generously.”

Juxtaposing the grace and mercy of God, Apostle Kumi-Larbi stated that “Grace is when God gives us what we don’t deserve, and mercy is when God doesn’t give us what we do deserve.” 

He explained that Grace is repeatedly referred to as a gift in the Bible because it is given out freely to the recipients (Christians) at no expense. Hence, Christians should show gratitude and value for the Grace of God by not allowing it to be unproductive.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi noted that the effective use of the grace of God results in a life of servitude (humility and selflessness), sacrifice and Christlikeness (godliness).

“As the recipients of God’s grace, Christians are to be gracious to others. This is because Grace is given to us to serve others and to exercise our spiritual gifts for the building up of the church,” he advised.

PENTECOST NEWS.