Posts in category: MPWDs

The Northern Sector of the Ministry to Persons with Disabilities (MPWDs) of The Church of Pentecost, led by Pastor Joshua Korku Semador, on Sunday, October 26, 2025, donated essential items to the Tongo School for the Deaf in the Bolgatanga Area. The gesture formed part of the ministry’s mandate to demonstrate Christ’s love through practical acts of service and inclusivity.

The event brought together several dignitaries, including the Bolgatanga Area MPWDs Coordinator, Pastor Nicholas Adimah; the Tongo District Minister, Overseer Joseph Yirenkyi Duodu; the Presiding Deaconess of the Deaf Assembly, Deaconess Matilda Teni; and the Assistant Headmaster of the school, Mr. Abugri Douglas, together with members of staff and students.

During the short ceremony, Overseer Duodu shared a brief exhortation based on 1 John 5:11–12, reminding all that true life and fulfillment are found only in Jesus Christ. His message was warmly received, leading 21 students to surrender their lives to Christ, after which 15 were baptized by immersion.

The team presented items including three 15kg washing machines, two large packs of sanitary pads, and two boxes of Bibles. The donations were received with great joy and gratitude by the students and staff. Mr. Douglas, on behalf of the school, expressed profound appreciation to The Church of Pentecost for the thoughtful gesture, assuring that the items would be well maintained and put to good use.

In his closing remarks, Pastor Semador encouraged the students to pursue both academic and spiritual excellence, urging them not to view their hearing impairment as a barrier but as an opportunity to inspire others through perseverance and faith.

The exercise reflected the Church’s commitment to holistic ministry, meeting both the physical and spiritual needs of individuals, and reinforced its mission of transforming society with the values and principles of the Kingdom of God.

Report by Bolgatanga Area Media Team

The 2025 edition of the Sign Language Interpreters Conference (SLIC’25), organized by the Ministry to Persons with Disabilities (MPWDs) of The Church of Pentecost, gathered sign language interpreters from across the nation under the theme “Unleashed: The Sign Language Interpreter on a Mission.”

Held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, from October 16 to 18, the conference served as a revival and recommissioning ground for interpreters, affirming their calling as missionaries of God on divine assignment.

The atmosphere was one of empowerment, learning, and spiritual renewal, emphasizing the growing importance of sign language interpretation in promoting accessibility, inclusion, and equality for the Deaf community. In his keynote address, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, highlighted that one of the key interventions of Vision 2023 and Vision 2028 is the intentional strengthening of the MPWDs Ministry. Through this ministry, he said, the Church reaffirms its divine mandate to reach all people with the gospel of Christ, without barriers or discrimination.

The conference featured a series of insightful and capacity-building presentations. Pastor Isaac Aboagye, MPWDs Pastor for Western and Western North Sectors, provided an overview of the ministry’s mission and structure. Pastor Joshua Korku Semador, MPWDs Pastor for the Northern Sector, spoke on “Discipling Persons with Disabilities for Christ,” while Mr. Marco Stanley Nyarko, a sign language lecturer at KNUST, taught on “Sign Language Linguistics.” Participants also benefited from a session on “The Ethics of Sign Language Interpreting” by Mr. Juventus Duorinaah, Executive Director of the Ghana National Association of the Deaf, and a presentation on “Interpreting Techniques in the Church Setting” by Dr. Cyril Mawuli Honu-Mensah of the University of Education, Winneba.

Other impactful sessions included “Working with the Deaf: Things to Know” by Pastor Reuben Peter Wuni, Ministry to the Deaf, and “Growing Spiritually as an Interpreter” by Pastor Benjamin Ofei-Badu, Home and Urban Missions Coordinator of The Church of Pentecost. Participants were grouped into beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels for breakout discussions, followed by an engaging Q&A session that provided clarity and direction for interpreters’ growth.

A major highlight of SLIC’25 was a panel discussion featuring experienced interpreters and leaders from the Deaf community. They explored the evolving role of sign language interpretation in ministry and the broader call to inclusivity in the body of Christ. Moments of worship, prayer, praise, and fellowship created a deeply spiritual and unifying atmosphere throughout the event.

At the closing session, Pastor Alexander Nyame, National Coordinator for MPWDs, spoke on the topic “Beyond Interpreting: Understanding the Missionary Nature of Interpreting.” Drawing from the call of Moses, he emphasized that God does not focus on ability but on availability. “To function as a missionary interpreter,” he noted, “one must cultivate spiritual intimacy, develop theological understanding, serve with love, depend on the Holy Spirit for empowerment, and carry the message beyond church walls, into homes, schools, and communities.”

He further stated, “God is an inclusive God, and through sign language interpreters, this truth is made visible.”

SLIC’25 concluded with renewed passion and gratitude as interpreters returned to their Districts and Areas, ready to serve as instruments of divine inclusion. Indeed, a new generation of interpreters has been unleashed; on a mission to make Christ known to all.

Report by MPWDs Media Team

The National Coordinator for the Ministry to Persons with Disabilities (MPWDs), Pastor Alexander Nyame, has charged sign language interpreters to see their work as a divine calling and an active partnership in God’s redemptive mission.

He made this passionate call during the closing session of this year’s Sign Language Interpreters Conference held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, from October 16 to 18, 2025.

Speaking on the theme, “Beyond Interpreting – Understanding the Missionary Nature of Sign Language Interpreting” and drawing inspiration from Exodus 4:13-17, Galatians 1:24, Pastor Nyame emphasised that “God doesn’t focus on our abilities but on our availability.” He explained that God, in His wisdom, prepares His workers in unique ways and calls them in His own time to fulfill His purpose.

“In the mission of God, there is always someone with a message, but that person may not always have the capacity to deliver it. That is why interpreters are needed — to translate God’s message into the language of the people,” he disclosed.

Referencing Acts 1:8, he noted that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to reach beyond their comfort zones to people of diverse languages and communication styles.

“The mission of God is for all creation, including people who cannot hear. God has prepared interpreters as partners in this mission,” he said.

Pastor Nyame likened interpreters to Aaron, the mouthpiece of Moses, saying, “God will put His message into your mouth through His messenger so you can deliver what He has called you to deliver.”

He further stressed that being a sign language interpreter is not an auxiliary role but a ministry and partnership with God, so they have a stake in whether people will be saved or not, stressing, “Your ministry is vital to the filling of God’s house, because there will always be people with disabilities who need to hear the gospel.”

According to him, the effectiveness of interpreters depends not only on their skill but also on their availability and spiritual alignment.

“The ultimate interpreter is the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit that inspired the creation of sign language will help you refine your craft,” he said, adding, “Align yourself with God’s purpose and He will use your hands and your heart as gifts to His people.”

Encouraging interpreters to view themselves as missionaries, Pastor Nyame stated that their work is a form of cross-cultural and linguistic evangelism, saying, “Your interpretation translates Christ’s message into an accessible form. When you interpret with anointing, you will effect change in the lives of your recipients.”

He added: “Carry the mission of God beyond the walls of the church. You are sent by God with a message, and the message is as important as the messenger. Maintain a consistent life so that the message reaches its destination without interference.”

Concluding his message, Pastor Alexander Nyame assured sign language interpreters that “if God knows He can get virtues through you to people, He will get virtues to you.”

The conference ended with a renewed sense of purpose among participants, who were inspired to carry the gospel to the deaf community with passion, skill, and spiritual depth.

PENT NEWS

The National Coordinator of the Deaf Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, Pastor Peter Reuben Wuni, has urged sign language interpreters to deepen their understanding of the deaf community and see their work as a sacred bridge between the deaf and the hearing church.

Speaking at the Sign Language Interpreters Conference 2025 at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh on the topic, “Working with the Deaf: Things to Know,” Pastor Wuni acknowledged that the work of interpreters is demanding because of contextual and cultural variations across the world. He shared candid insights into the expectations of the deaf community, explaining that the deaf do not always understand everything that is interpreted to them.

“The deaf wish interpreters would improve upon their craft and listen to their suggestions. Many interpreters are proud of their ability to interpret, but often, people cannot understand what they are interpreting,” he said.

Expressing his gratitude to God for the progress made in the church’s engagement with the deaf community, Pastor Wuni noted that twenty years ago, there was nothing like professional sign language interpreters in the Church. He also commended the national coordinator for spearheading the conference, describing it as “a significant step towards inclusivity and excellence in ministry.”

According to the deaf pastor, the demand for professional interpreters is growing as prominent people are now employing their services. He, however, observed that collaboration between interpreters and the deaf community in Africa remains limited compared to other parts of the world.

“The most important thing is that interpreters should have the heart to meet the needs of deaf consumers,” he emphasised.

He expressed concern that some interpreters deviate from their core purpose of bridging the communication gap between the deaf and the hearing, saying, “This work is not about competition. Accept criticism in good faith. The deaf want to fully participate in church services; they want to grow and serve. After interpreting, fellowship with them. Keep their information confidential; don’t discuss their issues publicly, or they will stop coming to church.”

Pastor Wuni further advised interpreters to build genuine relationships with the deaf rather than viewing them as projects to fix.

“Interact with the deaf so it doesn’t look like you love sign language but not deaf people. Be patient and flexible when communicating with them,” he said, adding, “Bridge their communication gap; don’t pity them.”

Concluding his presentation, Pastor Wuni urged interpreters to see themselves as channels through whom the deaf can experience God.

“Improve your interpreting skills and make the deaf hear God’s voice through you. The Bible says the deaf will hear – and that will happen through the interpreter,” he affirmed.

PENT NEWS

The Executive Director of the Ghana National Association of the Deaf (GNAD) and disability rights advocate, Mr Juventus Duorinaah, Esq., has underscored the importance of ethics and professionalism in sign language interpretation, describing the service of interpreters as “an indispensable bridge between the deaf and the hearing world.”

He charged participants at the Sign Language Interpreters Conference 2025 taking place at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

Speaking on the topic, “Ethics of Sign Language Interpreting,” Mr Duorinaah highlighted that the contribution of interpreters to the lives of the deaf community is “immeasurable.”

He stated: “Expertise is very important in translation. In translation, ethics are equally important—you must avoid anything that will constitute an abuse of rights to anybody.”

He charged interpreters to adhere strictly to professional principles and codes of conduct. Ethics, he said, “make our work professionally credible because sign language interpreting is a professional vocation. It builds trust, ensures fairness, and protects the rights and integrity of clients.”

Lawyer Duorinaah further admonished interpreters to maintain the highest standards of integrity and honesty.

“Say exactly what you hear. Avoid conflicts of interest, respect deadlines and commitments, and reject gifts or any undue influence,” he advised.

He cautioned against breaches of confidentiality, reminding participants that interpreters are bound by trust, saying, “Learn to keep client information confidential. Do not use information for personal gain, and disclose only with consent, legal obligation, or when safety is at risk.”

He also advised interpreters to accept only assignments within their area of expertise, adding that “if the job exceeds your capability, notify the client immediately.”

He emphasised impartiality and fairness as non-negotiable principles in professional conduct, indicating that the interpreter’s role is to listen and interpret—nothing more

Mr Duorinaah urged interpreters to maintain professional distance and be guided by ethical discipline.

PENT NEWS

A pioneer sign language interpreter and international expert, Mr Marco Stanley Nyarko, who is also a lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), has called for continuous professional development among sign language interpreters to enhance their effectiveness in communicating God’s word to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

He said this at the Sign Language Interpreters Conference 2025 at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, on Friday, October 17, 2025.

Speaking on the topic, “Sign Language Linguistics,”Mr Nyarko emphasised the need for interpreters to go beyond basic translation to become skilled mediators who bridge communication gaps between the hearing and the deaf community.

“Sign language interpreters need more training to be able to interpret God’s will and Word to PWDs,” he said. “We have to practice more to help us understand the Word.”

He explained that sign language is “a full-fledged natural language, just like spoken language.”He added: “We have English grammar and sign language grammar. Sign language is a visual language developed within the deaf community.”

Mr Nyarko described linguisticsas “the foundation of sign language,” explaining that clarity in sign interpretation depends not only on hand movements but also on facial expressions.

“Signing without facial expression—no deaf person will understand you. The facial expressions make communication clearer,” he said. He encouraged interpreters to learn idiomatic expressions unique to sign language and apply morphology—the structure of signs—to make their communication more meaningful.

“As an interpreter, you have to know how to process and analyse the source language very well so that the deaf can benefit fully,” he noted. “It’s not just translation—you are acting as a mediator to bridge language gaps so the deaf can understand better.”

He further advised interpreters to develop mental agility and creativity in their work. “Think very fast to interpret complex vocabularies,” he urged. “The best practice as an interpreter is to look beyond meaning—think outside the box to interpret the source language accurately.”

He explained that interpreters must consider context, as classroom interpreting differs from church interpreting. He also stressed the importance of conveying not only the message but the emotion and intent of the speaker.

Mr Marco Nyarko concluded by reminding interpreters of their sacred responsibility: “Your duty is to communicate and bridge the communication gap. As an interpreter, you become the eyes, ears, hands, and mouth for the deaf.”

PENT NEWS

The Kpikpira District of The Church of Pentecost in the Bawku Area has held its third annual convention for Persons with Disabilities, under the Ministry to Persons With Disabilities (MPWDs).

The event, characterised by compassion, inclusion, and the transformative power of the gospel, was in line with the Church’s “Possessing the Nations” agenda. It took place on Saturday, September 27, 2025.

Delivering the sermon, the Bawku Area Head, Pastor Michael Akwasi Asante, referenced Acts 4:12 and Revelation 20:11–15, reminding participants of the eternal value of every soul and the certainty of divine judgement. He emphasised that “salvation is available to all, regardless of physical ability.”

Pastor Asante expressed gratitude to God, the Dagenham District of the UK, and Mr Charlie Roy (UK) for their generous donations. He also acknowledged the support of the Tempane Health Directorate, Tempane District Assembly, and the Garu Presbyterian Church.

A total of 204 participants attended the convention, including 63 Persons Living with Disabilities. Through the preaching of the Word, nine souls were won for Christ, with five  receiving water baptism. A highlight of the event was the moving testimony of 19-year-old Sister Abiba Laar, who had been wheelchair-bound all her life. Following her baptism, she testified of receiving renewed strength in her limbs, enabling her to walk with minimal assistance using crutches. Her testimony deeply inspired attendees and reaffirmed the power of God to heal and restore.

Beyond spiritual upliftment, the event also addressed physical and mental health needs. Free medical screening was provided, covering conditions such as typhoid, hepatitis B, HIV, blood pressure, haemoglobin levels, and assessments of the eyes, ears, nose, and throat. Mental health counselling was also offered by Mr Peter Duut, Head of Mental Health at the Tempane Health Directorate. Additionally, 23 individuals were registered onto the National Health Insurance Scheme.

In a gesture of practical love, the church donated two brand-new wheelchairs, valued at GHS 4,000, to persons with mobility challenges. A wholesome lunch was also served to all attendees, making the day both spiritually and physically refreshing.

The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including Mr Abdul Abdulai, Social Welfare Director at the Tempane District (representing the DCE); Mr Simon Atiimbey, Assistant Director for Special Education, GES; Catechist Clement Abugri, Livelihood Programme Officer; and Mr Mark Abangiba, Programme Officer for Empowerment.

The District Minister, Overseer Joseph Akuffo, commended the impact of Vision 2028 initiatives, noting that they have significantly reduced suicide cases among persons with disabilities through intentional outreach and community inclusion. He expressed appreciation to Pastor and Mrs Asante, and to Pastor Joshua Semador, MPWD Northern Sector Coordinator, for their continuous support.

Speaking on behalf of the DCE, Mr Abdul Abdulai lauded The Church of Pentecost for its vital social interventions across the Bawku Area and the nation. He assured participants that his office would work to provide the requested assistive devices, including tricycles, wheelchairs, and crutches, as well as educational support to promote mobility, independence, and access to learning.

The convention concluded in an atmosphere of joy, gratitude, and renewed hope, reflecting the church’s holistic vision to transform society through the power of Christ.

Report by Kpikpira District Media Committee

The Ministry to Persons with Disabilities (MPWDs) of The Church of Pentecost, in collaboration with the US-based non-governmental organisation Joni & Friends, has distributed a range of assistive devices, including wheelchairs, white canes, walking sticks, crutches, and mobility walkers, to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Lomé and Kara, Togo.

The initiative commenced on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the Centre Internationale d’Adoration de Pentecôte (CIAP) in Yokoe, Lomé, where dozens of recipients gathered to receive essential equipment designed to enhance their mobility and independence.

Apostle Lare Banimpo, Executive Council member of The Church of Pentecost and National Head for Togo, thanked both Joni & Friends and the church’s Executive Council for endorsing and supporting the initiative. He emphasised its wider social impact, noting that it benefits not only church members but also the broader Togolese community.

He commended the team’s dedication and encouraged them in their service, trusting that their efforts would be richly blessed by God.

The National Coordinator for the MPWDs, Pastor Alexander Nyame, also extended his gratitude to Apostle Banimpo for the warm reception and reaffirmed the team’s commitment to delivering high-quality assistive devices to all individuals in need.

Following the successful distribution in Lomé, the outreach team is scheduled to continue their mission in Kara from Wednesday, September 3 to Friday, September 5, 2025, aiming to extend this vital support to PWDs across northern Togo.

Pent News