Posts in category: Moving With Gs

Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, the General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, has asserted that prayer remains the heritage of Christians.

He has, therefore, called on believers to keep to prayer as it has immense implications.

He noted that prayer should be an integral part of the daily routines of Christians until their last breath.

Apostle Gyau Obuobi made this known on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at the climax of the Osu District’s one-week fasting and prayer event held at the Osu Central Auditorium from October 16 to 22, 2023.

The event, which was on the theme, “The Local Church Called To Prayer, For Maximum Impact” (Acts 12:5 and 1 Thessalonians 5:17), brought together church members eager to embrace the transformative power of prayer.

The General Secretary highlighted the significance of prayer, touching on several key points.

He drew a parallel between prayer and heritage, likening prayer to something passed down from generation to generation, saying, “In The Church of Pentecost, prayer is not just a tradition but a precious heritage.”

Apostle Obuobi urged the church to guard it and pass it on to future generations, much like Naboth, who refused to relinquish his inheritance.

He noted that in The Church of Pentecost, prayer is a defining feature that sets the church apart, adding, “Prayer is a core element of Pentecostalism, ingrained in our services and lifestyle. Apostolic believers learn the art of prayer and cannot be separated from it, for it is an integral part of Pentecostalism.”

The General Secretary passionately emphasised that prayer acts as a catalyst for revival. He cited the example of the Wesley Brothers, known for their fervent prayer life.

He emphasised that prayer is not optional for Christians but an absolute necessity since it is essential to the Christian disciple’s life. He encouraged the congregation to spend much time praying, reminding them there is no substitute for it.

He referenced Matthew 21:12-13 and Isaiah 56:7, underlining God’s expectation for the church to be a “House of Prayer.”

He disclosed that miracles, signs, and wonders followed when the first church prayed. This principle, he mentioned, remains unchanged, and by continuing in prayer, the church can anticipate remarkable miracles and divine interventions.

Apostle Obuobi concluded by sharing insights into the outcomes of prayer.

He quoted Bill Hybels, stating that prayer is the key to unlocking God’s consistent and prevailing power in one’s life.

“Through prayer, individuals and the church can tap into the divine power,” he admonished.

Apostle Obuobi noted that in prayer, God speaks and directs.

“Prayer is not merely presenting requests to God; it is a channel through which miracles and opportunities are granted,” he declared.

Among those present were Mrs Korkor Obuobi, the wife of the General Secretary, and Pastor Gabriel Owusu and his wife, Priscilla (Osu District Minister).

PENTECOST NEWS

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, has hinted that the Spirit of Power granted to believers by the Holy Spirit is able to transform them for maximum impact.

He made this known on Sunday, October 15, 2023, during the climax of the week-long “Fire Conference 2023” organised by the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Atomic, in Accra.  

The conference, which was themed, “The Spirit of Pentecost For Maximum Impact,” featured the General Secretary of the Church as the main speaker.

Apostle Obuobi expounded on the topic, “The Spirit of Power” and highlighted the significance of the event of Pentecost for the Church and humanity.

He explained that Pentecost was the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the disciples of Jesus Christ, as recorded in Acts 2:1-4.

He highlighted the four things that happened on that day: a sound of a mighty rushing wind filled the house where they were sitting, tongues of fire appeared and rested on each of them, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they began to speak in other languages as the Spirit enabled them.

He further stated that the Spirit of Pentecost has two key characteristics: the Spirit of power and the Spirit of holiness.

He quoted Acts 1:8, where Jesus promised his followers that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them and be his witnesses to the ends of the earth.

He also cited Luke 24:49, where Jesus instructed his disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they were clothed with power from on high.

Apostle Obuobi emphasised that God never intended for his children to walk without clothes, meaning that believers need to be clothed with the power of the Holy Spirit.

He said that this power sets believers apart as people of God and enables them to perform extraordinary miracles, as demonstrated by the apostles in the book of Acts.

He described the power of the Holy Spirit as immeasurable, unlimited, and surpassing, according to Ephesians 1:19. He stressed that this power was the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, as recorded in Matthew 28:1-6.

He also pointed out that God did not give believers a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, love, and self-control, as stated in 2 Timothy 1:7.

The General Secretary outlined three purposes of the Spirit of power in the lives of believers.

The first purpose, according to him, is to transform their lives from ordinary to extraordinary, from natural to supernatural, and from weak to strong.

He said: “You cannot encounter the Spirit and not have your lives transformed. This power transforms the ordinary into extraordinary, the natural into supernatural. The power also transforms the weak and makes him strong.”

The second purpose is to transform their nations and societies by being salt and light to the world and influencing others with their godly character and conduct, adding, “When one’s life is transformed, they (believers) in turn transform society and nations.”

Apostle Obuobi noted that the third purpose is to make an impact for God’s kingdom by preaching the gospel, healing the sick, casting out demons, and doing good works.

“The Spirit of Pentecost is released onto men for impact. A life that carries the Spirit of God is a life that makes impact. The Holy Spirit is not meant for only speaking in tongues, but to empower us to have much impact,” he explained.

He concluded by urging the congregation to seek and receive the Spirit of Pentecost, which is the spirit of power, and to use it for God’s glory.

He prayed for God to fill everyone with his Spirit and empower them to be effective witnesses for Christ.

He also challenged Christians to live up to their calling as God’s children and not just consume resources, but make a difference where they are.

He quoted Apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Other speakers at the conference included Apostle Dr Amos Jimmy Markin (Director of Evangelism Ministry), Apostle William Boakye Agyarko (Haatso Area Head), and Elder Seth Peasah (El-Bethel Prayer Centre).

The Fire Conference 2023 started on Monday, October 9, 2023. It was attended by hundreds of members and visitors.

The conference was aimed at igniting a fresh fire in the hearts of believers and equipping them with the power of the Holy Spirit to fulfill their divine mandate on earth. It was also a time of worship, prayer, fellowship, testimonies, and miracles.

PENTECOST NEWS

ABSA Bank Ghana has presented a plaque to The Church of Pentecost to appreciate the strong partnership the Church has built with the bank over the years.

A team from ABSA comprising the Acting Relationship Manager, Anita Ofori, and the Head of Customer Engagements and Insights Customer Experience Department, Adwoa Kyerewa Amponsah, were at the Headquarters of the Church at La, Accra, on Friday, October 6, 2023, to convey the bank’s appreciation to the Church.

According to Ms. Ofori, the visit formed part of the activities marking the bank’s Customer Service Month, celebrated in October every year. 

“We are here to show our appreciation to The Church of Pentecost, our top customer, to present this gift to show our appreciation to the Church. We also wish to congratulate you on your assumption as the new General Secretary of the Church,” she said.

The General Secretary, Apostle Obuobi, on his part, expressed his joy for the visit and thanked the bank for the award.

“The Church of Pentecost has had a long-standing relationship with ABSA. We have had no challenge with ABSA in managing our funds,” he indicated.

Apostle Obuobi assured the bank of the Church’s intention to continue to work with them for the mutual benefit of both organisations.

He took the opportunity to introduce the new Finance and Administration Director (FAD) of the Church, Pastor Emmanuel Kwabena Appah, to the bank officials.

PENTECOST NEWS  

In an effort to bolster their collaboration and explore avenues for cooperation, the General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, made a courtesy visit to the Executive Director of the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG), Dr. Peter Kwame Yeboah, at his office in Accra yesterday.

The Church delegation, consisting of Pastor Felix Okyere Anti (Administrative Secretary to the General Secretary), Elder Frank Nsiah Adutwum (Operations Coordinator, PENTSOS), and Elder Alexander Kwame Nketsiah Frimpong (Health Coordinator, Pentecost Health Services), was warmly welcomed by Dr. Peter Kwame Yeboah and his deputy, Dr. James Duah.

Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi expressed The Church of Pentecost’s unwavering commitment to its vision of influencing every aspect of society with Kingdom principles and values, with a particular emphasis on providing high-quality healthcare not only to its members but to all citizens of Ghana.

According to the General Secretary, the meeting was convened in recognition of CHAG’s significant support to health facilities owned and managed by The Church of Pentecost through the Pentecost Social Services (PENTSOS), including the provision of personnel and technical expertise.

Apostle Obuobi emphasised the need for a strengthened relationship between the two organisations to contribute to the nation’s health sector and overall development. He urged both entities to collaborate and pool their resources for the betterment of not only their members but the entire nation.

In response, Mr. Yeboah congratulated Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi on his election to the high office of General Secretary at The Church of Pentecost. He expressed his gratitude for the historic meeting, marking the first official engagement between CHAG and The Church of Pentecost’s leadership.

Mr. Yeboah lauded The Church of Pentecost’s deliberate efforts to contribute to Ghana’s socio-economic development, particularly in the health sector.

He commended the Church for its substantial investments in health infrastructure, underscoring the vital role of healing ministry in evangelism.

During the meeting, potential collaboration opportunities were discussed, aiming for mutual benefit.

Mr. Yeboah urged the organisations to build on the progress achieved thus far and explore further avenues for enhanced partnership in the future.

The Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) is an Implementing Partner, with Agency status, for the Ministry of Health.

The core mandate of CHAG is to promote the Healing Ministry of Jesus Christ, and to be a reliable partner in the health sector in providing the health needs of the people in Ghana.

CHAG also seeks to promote the growth, development, and sustainability of Church Health Services at all places especially in the hard-to-reach and the marginalised segments of the society through holistic health service provision and training.

The meeting between the two leaders signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing relationship between The Church of Pentecost and CHAG, with both organisations committed to advancing healthcare and contributing to the overall well-being of the nation.

PENTECOST NEWS.

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, has emphasised that one of God’s fundamental purposes for His children on Earth is to have a meaningful impact on their generation, and this divine calling is not exclusive to men but extends to women as well.

The General Secretary made this assertion when he addressed participants of the ongoing ABIDEDOES Conference today at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh. ABIDEDOES is derived from the combination of the names of notable Bible characters: Abigail, Deborah, Dorcas, and Salomey.

Quoting Ephesians 2:10, Apostle Obuobi noted that God intricately designed each individual and that no one is a mistake or an afterthought in His divine plan.

He highlighted the unique role of women, stating, “You have been created as a woman to make a difference in society.”

Drawing from the biblical narrative, Apostle Obuobi illustrated how women have historically played pivotal roles in shaping their societies and impacting their worlds.

He cited examples of remarkable women in the Bible, whose stories continue to inspire believers today

He noted that Deborah emerged as a beacon of strength for the entire nation of Israel, known for her exceptional courage.

Apostle Obuobi lauded her for leading her people to victory in a pivotal war that reshaped the course of the nation’s history.

“Through the acts of bravery of Deborah, she impacted her world,” he said

Abigail is another Bible figure who is celebrated for her wisdom and counsel which played a pivotal role in preventing a tragedy.

“Her intervention not only saved her husband, Nabal, from death but also prevented David from committing murder,” he said.

Dorcas left a lasting legacy through her generosity and acts of charity. Her impact was so profound that even after her passing, people refused to let her body go to the grave.

Priscilla, along with her husband, risked her life for the work of God, leaving an indelible mark on her generation.

Apostle Obuobi highlighted her selflessness and sacrifice as key factors in her impactful life.

“All these women shared a common trait: they possessed unique skills and qualities. Therefore, one of the prerequisites for women to have maximum impact in their generation is the possession of unique skills,” he emphasised.

Quoting Proverbs 22:29, Apostle Obuobi encouraged women to recognize the opportunities that come with skillfulness and expertise.

He also referenced Proverbs 31:10-26, urging women to continually learn new skills and sharpen existing ones as they seek to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others.

PENTECOST NEWS

Great leaders walk off the stage when the applause is loudest, and this was the case for Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, who formally brought his service as the General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost to an end on Saturday, September 2, 2023.

An induction and farewell service was held at the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Atomic, Accra, to appreciate him and his family in recognition of his ten years of meritorious service to the Church and country.

The President of the Apostolic Church of Ghana, Apostle Dr. Aaron Ami-Narh, showered praises on Apostle Kumi-Larbi when he exhorted congregants at the event. “Apostle Kumi-Larbi, you are a great man in this nation and beyond. You are a book that all should read. You are a professor in the act of leading from behind. You are an oil wheel that achieves great results in silence,” he said.

During the service, the Women’s Ministry and the General Council of The Church of Pentecost also gave glowing testimonies about Apostle Kumi-Larbi and his wife, Rose, touting their significant contributions to the Church and the Body of Christ.

In his response, Apostle Kumi-Larbi thanked God for the sustaining grace for the last ten years. He expressed gratitude to the immediate-past Chairman, Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah (Rtd.), who nominated him ten years ago for the high office, and the current Chairman, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, for the trust reposed in him to nominate him for a second term.

He was also grateful to his predecessors for their support. He was equally thankful to former President John Dramani Mahama and President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for always opening their doors to him and the Church.

He also appreciated all who contributed in diverse ways to make his tenure successful, including his wife, Mrs. Rose Dansoa Kumi-Larbi, children, and other relatives.

The event also saw the induction of the Chairman of the Church, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, to commence his second term; the General Secretary, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, as well as the four Executive Council Members, namely Apostle A.N.Y. Kumi-Larbi, Apostle Dr. Amos Jimmy Markin, Apostle Dr. Dieudonne Komla Nuekpe, and Apostle Banimpo Lare.

PENTECOST NEWS

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost has expressed his admiration for the outgoing General Secretary, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, describing him as a selfless man.

“Over the years, the Lord has blessed The Church of Pentecost with selfless leaders, and our brother and friend, Apostle Kumi-Larbi, is one of them,” he said during a brief presentation and appreciation ceremony held yesterday for the outgoing General Secretary and his family at the Church’s Headquarters.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi leaves the Headquarters after a decade-long service as the Chief Scribe of the Church.

Apostle Nyamekye, having worked with him, first as an Executive Council Member and as Chairman for the last five years, noted that one key trait of the outgoing General Secretary was his selfless nature.

He said that one of the banes of humanity is the ability to deal with and control the self.

He mentioned that the pride of life, lust of the flesh, and the desire for material possessions, all stem from the failure to manage one’s “self.”

He emphasised that keeping one’s self in check is not easy, which is why many people struggle to lead selfless lives.

Apostle Nyamekye, however, pointed to Daniel as one man who excelled .

He said that despite being a foreigner and a slave, Daniel served four Kings of Babylon because of his ability to control the “self.”

He then read Daniel 5:4-17, Daniel 2:29, and Daniel 6:4 to highlight various instances of how Daniel demonstrated extraordinary selfless behaviour.

“After being the only one to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, Daniel could have taken pride in that, but he was careful not to put himself above the other wise men,” he said, adding “he was able to keep the self in check.”

The Chairman likened the General Secretary to Daniel and urged all Christians to strive to emulate them, stressing that: “The world is in dire need of selfless men an women.”

“The spirit of the Holy God in Daniel and Apostle Kumi-Larbi is the same One in us. Therefore, if they were able to do this, then we also can do the same,” he added.

He also urged the outgoing General Secretary to steadfastly maintain the admirable quality of selflessness he consistently displayed during his tenure as General Secretary and to continue exemplifying it in Ashaiman, where he will now serve as Area Head.

In response, Apostle Kumi-Larbi expressed gratitude to God for His sustaining grace; the immediate-past Chairman, Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah (Rtd.) for nominating him for the high office and the current Chairman for nominating him to serve a second term.

He also thanked the ministry directors,as well as management and staff of the Headquarters for their support throughout his tenure.

He was also grateful to all who contributed in diverse ways to make his tenure successful.

PENTECOST NEWS.

The outgoing General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, has admonished Christians never to give up but to strive to be better each year, for God Himself will come through for them.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi said this on Thursday, August 31, 2023, during his last official engagement with the Staff and Management of the church’s Headquarters at La, Accra.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi takes a new role as Area Head for Ashaiman after serving as the chief scribe of the church and head of administration at the headquarters for the past ten years.

Speaking on the topic, “Divine Protocol – God’s Mercy, Grace and Favour,” the outgoing General Secretary noted that Christians have been privileged with divine protocol, which comes about after Christ has come into their lives.

He emphasised that God, in His divine wisdom, orchestrates events and connections in remarkable ways for those who trust in Him.

He noted that divine protocol emerges through a personal relationship with Christ, adding, “Divine protocol operates beyond the confines of worldly norms, as God follows His own distinct path in guiding His believers.”

Basing his sermon on scripture references from Psalm 37:23-26; 2 Samuel 9:1-13, 16:1-4, 19:24-30, and 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, Apostle Kumi-Larbi shared lessons from the stories of David and Saul. He emphasised the importance of maintaining relationships, respecting new leaders, and acknowledging the transformative power of encountering Jesus Christ.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi explained that mercy involves God’s compassion, kindness, and forgiveness for shortcomings, while grace empowers believers to embody virtuous qualities. 

He encouraged believers to seek God’s abundant grace and mercy, assuring them that these attributes transcend past mistakes and negative actions.

Referencing John 10:10, he reassured Christians that God’s protection shields them from harm, and they should embrace each new year with a sense of renewal and progression. 

He cited Hebrews 4:16, emphasising that approaching God’s throne of grace with confidence leads to receiving mercy and grace during times of need.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi urged believers not to underestimate life’s challenges but to entrust everything to God, especially in times of need. 

He emphasised that divine protocol encompasses God’s grace, favour, and mercy, and it aligns individuals with their unique paths.

Summing up his message, Apostle Kumi-Larbi shared profound insights learned from life’s journey:

1. God may use challenges and adversity for His higher purpose, even when it seems like life’s progression is delayed.

2. God’s responses to prayers are rooted in His sovereign will, reflecting His profound concern for His children’s growth.

3. The Christian journey involves navigating difficulties, but relying on God’s ways produces a beautiful result.

Apostle Dr. Philip Osei-Korsah, Director of the Counselling Ministry of the Church, extended gratitude to the outgoing General Secretary on behalf of the Staff and Management. 

“We want to celebrate the goodness of God in your life. We say a big thank you to God. You have served the Headquarters and the Church for the past ten years, and the grace has been sufficient,” he said.

Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi was called into the full-time ministry of The Church of Pentecost in 1999 and has since served as District Minister for Kojokrom, Awoshie and Michel Camp districts. He was appointed an Area Head in 2011 and was responsible for the Asamankese Area. 

He was called into the Office of Apostle in 2013 and elected General Secretary in 2013.  

PENTECOST NEWS