MOSES' ENCOUNTER WITH GOD - A GLORIOUS TRANSFORMATION web

Moses’ Encounter With God: A Glorious Transformation

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INTRODUCTION

The story of Moses meeting God and coming with a shining face of God’s glory is a remarkable event recorded in the Bible. This divine encounter not only highlights Moses’ unique relationship with God but also holds a profound message for the New Testament Church. Through biblical references, we will explore the significance of Moses’ radiant face, its fading glory, and how it relates to the concept of ever-increasing glory in the context of the Church.

MOSES’ ENCOUNTER WITH GOD

In the book of Exodus, we read about Moses’ intimate encounters with God on Mount Sinai. During one such encounter, as Moses communed with the Almighty, his face was transfigured and began to radiate God’s glory. Exodus 34:29 describes it, saying, “When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the covenant law in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord.”

THE SHINING FACE OF GOD’S GLORY

The radiant face of Moses signified the divine presence and glory that enveloped him during his communion with God. This radiant glow represented the awe-inspiring majesty, holiness, and power of the Almighty. It was a visible manifestation of Moses’ close relationship with God and the divine authority he possessed as a chosen leader with a divine commission.

THE FADING GLORY

However, the brightness of Moses’ face was temporary. Exodus 34:29 further states, “But afterwards, when Moses went in before the Lord to speak with Him, he would remove the veil until he came out. And when he came out and told the Israelites what he had been commanded, they saw that his face was radiant. Then Moses would put the veil back over his face until he went in to speak with the Lord again.”

The radiance of Moses’ face was a typology of the glory of the Old Testament Church, which was fading. According to 2 Corinthians 3:13, “We are not like Moses, who would put a veil over his face to prevent the Israelites from seeing the end of what was passing away.”

Moses’ face gradually lost its radiance as time passed, and he interacted with the people. The fading glory symbolised that the extraordinary radiance was not an inherent attribute of Moses himself but a reflection of God’s glory bestowed upon him. The temporary nature of this radiance highlighted the limitations of the Old Testament Church and pointed toward a greater glory that would come in the future through the New Testament Church.

THE BIRTH OF THE CHURCH: DAY OF PENTECOST

The New Testament Church was birthed on the day of Pentecost, as recounted in the book of Acts Chapter 2. Filled with the Holy Spirit, the apostles spoke in different tongues, boldly proclaiming the Gospel to a diverse crowd. The miraculous events of Pentecost marked the beginning of a new era, where the power of the Holy Spirit ignited a movement that would impact the world.

THE CHURCH AS THE BODY OF CHRIST

The apostle Paul extensively used the metaphor of the Church as the “Body of Christ” in his letters to various congregations. In 1 Corinthians 12:27, he writes, “Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” This imagery emphasises the unity, diversity, and interdependence within the Church. Each believer, with their unique gifts and talents, contributes to the growth and edification of the Church, leading to ever-increasing glory.

THE CHURCH’S GROWTH AND INFLUENCE

The book of Acts chronicles the rapid growth and impact of the early Church. Acts 2:47 states, “And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” This verse highlights the continuous expansion of the Church as more people embraced the message of salvation. The Church’s influence grew, and through its teachings, miracles, and acts of love, it became a beacon of hope and transformation for communities far and wide.

THE CHURCH’S ETERNAL PURPOSE

Ephesians 3:10-11 unveils a profound mystery regarding the Church: “[God’s] intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to His eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

The New Testament Church serves as a vessel through which God’s wisdom is revealed to the spiritual realm. It is a central part of God’s eternal plan, contributing to the ever-increasing glory of His Kingdom.

THE CHURCH’S CALL TO SHINE

In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus declares to His disciples, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” These words emphasise the Church’s role in radiating God’s glory and transforming the world. As the Church lives out its calling, it becomes a beacon of hope, drawing people to the abundant life found in Christ.

RELATING MOSES’ DIVINE ENCOUNTER TO THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH

In the New Testament, Apostle Paul draws a parallel between Moses’ experience and the transformation happening within the Church. In 2 Corinthians 3:18, Paul writes, “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

Paul speaks of a surpassing glory that surpasses the fading radiance of Moses’ face. He explains that as believers in Christ, we have direct access to the glory of God through the indwelling Holy Spirit. The glory we experience is not temporary but continues to increase and transform us into the image of Christ. It is a process of spiritual growth and sanctification that unfolds throughout our lives, manifesting the ever-increasing glory of God in the New Testament Church.

CONCLUSION

Though temporary, the account of Moses meeting God and his shining face serves as a powerful metaphor for the transformative journey of believers in the New Testament Church. We, like Moses, have the privilege of communing with God and experiencing His glory. However, unlike Moses, our access to God’s glory is not transitory but ever-increasing, leading to a continual transformation into the likeness of Christ. As members of the New Testament Church, we are called to embrace this transformative process, allowing the glory of God to shine through us and reflect His love, grace, and power to the world.

Written by Benjamin Mwinbeogre Zii

Mentor The Children Under Your Care – General Secretary Tells Children’s Ministry Workers web

Mentor The Children Under Your Care – General Secretary Tells Children’s Ministry Workers

by with No Comment Children's MinistryChurch NewsMoving With GsTop Stories

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, has advised Children’s Ministry workers to mentor the children under their care in order to effectively shape the spiritual foundation of the next generation.

Speaking on the topic: “Mentoring the Next Generation: The Role of Children Workers” at the just-ended Foundation Builders Conference (FBC’2023), Apostle Kumi-Larbi urged the Children’s Ministry workers not to give up, bearing in mind that they significantly contribute to the lives of the young ones they teach.

“There’s nothing good that can be achieved without a good foundation. Yet, foundation builders are less celebrated, but those who stand on it enjoy the glory. You might not know what you are doing for the young ones you teach, but do not give up,” he encouraged.

Drawing from Ephesians 4:11-13, Apostle Kumi-Larbi highlighted the essential work of child workers in impacting children’s lives, saying that The Church of Pentecost would never lack leaders due to the dedicated efforts of the children’s workers who serve as the foundation builders.

“By building a solid spiritual foundation for the children of the Church, you play a vital role in ensuring continuous growth and leadership development within the Church,” he said.

The General Secretary noted that mentors, as wise and trusted counsellors or teachers, offer invaluable guidance and support to less experienced individuals over an extended period.

He further noted that mentors are crucial in equipping and shaping the next generation, providing them with the necessary skills and navigating the challenges of the professional world.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi cited biblical examples of mentorship, such as the relationship between Eli and Samuel, Elijah and Elisha, and Jesus and His disciples, as inspiration for effective mentoring.

He highlighted the importance of relational mentorship, stating that Jesus was always present and interacted with His disciples daily, and, therefore, urged the foundation builders to conduct themselves in a manner that resonates with their mentees.

“Before you can impact somebody, the person needs to follow you,” Apostle Kumi-Larbi remarked, referencing Matthew 16:24.

The General Secretary said mentors should lead by example, demonstrating a genuine interest in their mentees’ growth and learning.

He explained that mentoring involves helping mentees identify, develop, and utilise their God-given talents.

He also stressed the importance of nurturing and supporting the young ones, setting an exemplary standard for them to follow, and ultimately enabling them to become mentors themselves.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi’s presentation also touched on the “Barnabas Model,” citing the relationship between Barnabas and Paul as a powerful example of mentorship.

He also highlighted how Barnabas sponsored and supported Paul’s acceptance into the apostolic community, ultimately transforming him from a persecuted member to a devoted minister of Christ.

He encouraged foundation builders to stand by young men and defend them, actively shaping and releasing them into the church’s service.

“Mentoring the next generation requires us to come to their level, groom them, defend them and unleash them,” he said.

He also advised the children’s workers to foster an environment of mutual sharing, trust, and enrichment, where mentors and mentees learn from each other.

The General Secretary concluded his presentation by discussing the faces of mentoring, which include parenthood, pace-setting, and partnering.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi said that mentors not only give back but also enhance their own leadership skills and gain new perspectives. He, therefore, encouraged Children’s Ministry workers to live a life of significance by sharing their time and expertise with their mentees, enabling them to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

PENTECOST NEWS.

The Souls Of Children With Disabilities Are Precious To God – Pastor Nyame web

The Souls Of Children With Disabilities Are Precious To God – Pastor Nyame

by with No Comment Children's MinistryChurch NewsMPWDsTop Stories

The Coordinator of the Ministry to Persons with Disabilities (MPWDs) of The Church of Pentecost, Pastor Alexander Nyame, has urged Children’s Workers to strive to integrate children with Disabilities (CWDs) into the Children’s Ministry because they are also precious to God.The MPWDs National Coordinator made this passionate appeal when he addressed participants of the Foundation Builders Conference (FBC’23) yesterday at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.Quoting from Psalm 127:3, Pastor Nyame reminded Children’s workers that children are a gift from God, a reward bestowed upon humanity. “This gift is not limited to those without disabilities, for a child with a disability will grow into an adult with a disability. Each soul, irrespective of any physical or mental challenges, holds immeasurable worth in the eyes of God,” he said.Pastor Nyame also referred to Genesis 1:26-27 to buttress the point that God intends no person to be left behind. He explained that the spiritual nature of all souls, including those with disabilities, remains unaltered and unaffected by physical limitations, as mentioned in Revelation 20:11-12 and 1 John 3:2.Highlighting the various types of disabilities, Pastor Nyame noted that not all children with disabilities are born with their impairments. He further explained the different types of disabilities children face, including deafness, visual impairment, developmental delays, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, albinism, and neurological impairments such as cerebral palsy and epilepsy. He observed that CWDs encounter daily barriers in the form of social, attitudinal, physical, architectural, and information or communication challenges, and the church can alleviate these challenges by ensuring their full inclusion into the church.To address the inclusion of CWDs into the Children’s Ministry, Pastor Nyame proposed several strategies, such as making meeting venues for Children’s Ministry classes accessible to all children and ensuring equal participation. He also advocated for the proactive preparation of children in the ministry to accept and welcome CWDs, promoting a change in attitudes towards CWDs and fostering inclusivity.The MPWDs Coordinator further stressed the importance of planning lessons with children with disabilities in mind, tailoring activities and materials to accommodate their unique needs. He also encouraged the integration of CWDs into all Children’s Ministry activities, including Bible study, prayer, and initiatives like the Jethro Initiative and OCOB initiative. “We must also extend invitations to children with disabilities outside the church, ensuring that no child is left excluded,” he said.Pastor Nyame also underscored the need for adequate support for children with impairments and suggested that parents of children with disabilities be included in the team of teachers at the Children’s Ministry, saying: “By doing so, the church can create an environment where children with disabilities truly belong.”Pastor Nyame ended his presentation by reiterating that children with disabilities are individuals with souls who require equal opportunities for the salvation of their souls. He, therefore, urged children’s workers to allow the Holy Spirit to instil in them a special love for children with disabilities within them, as every soul counts.PENTECOST NEWS.

Ministers' Wives Urged To Live Within Their Means pn

Ministers’ Wives Urged To Live Within Their Means

by with No Comment Church NewsTop Stories

Mrs. Mabel Darko, wife of the Twereboa District Minister of The Church of Pentecost, has advised ministers’ wives to strive to live within their means even in the face of societal pressures.

Mrs. Darko gave this advice on Thursday, July 6, 2023 at the Greater-Accra Region Ministers Wives prayer meeting held at the Dr. Thomas Wyatt Memorial Temple in Accra.

Drawing inspiration from Matthew 6:25-34, Mrs. Darko highlighted the need for ministers wives to align their lifestyles with their financial capabilities.

 “We must cut our coats according to our material. In other words, our lifestyles must align with our financial realities,” she emphasised.

She further advised  them not to place unnecessary pressure on their husbands’ finances through extravagant spending or unsustainable practices.

She said that when they embrace lifestyles that aligns with their financial means, they would achieve financial stability and foster healthier relationships within their families.

Mrs. Darko highlighted several factors that commonly put pressure on women’s finances such as pressure from family, social function commitments and unnecessary comparisons with others, among others.

“The tendency to compare oneself with others can drive unnecessary and often unaffordable spending,” she cautioned and rather urged them to be content with what God had blessed them.

To help ministers wives manage their finances effectively and find contentment within their means, Mrs. Darko provided practical guidance such as budgeting, encourage open and honest communication:with their spouses about financial matters, prioritising needs over wants, and engaging in financial literacy programmes or seeking professional advice in order to make sound financial choices.

PENTECOST NEWS

RELATING WITH MCKEOWN & NYAMEKYE 2 web

Relating With Mckeown And Nyamekye: Confronting & Carefronting The Clash Of Veterans, Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, & Gen Zeds In Church

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The world finds itself at a crossroads in terms of communication, interaction, and shared meaning. Ama Ata Aidoo’s “The Dilemma of a Ghost” and Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart” reflect the confusion and challenges in connecting across generations. This clash of culture, expectations, and identities extends even to the church, where the generational gap poses a significant responsibility for church leaders. They must understand the complexities of different backgrounds and navigate the assimilation of various generations in the church building. The challenge lies not only in preaching or teaching, but also in the overall context of the church, including architectural design, space structure, music, seating, and fellowship time.

The struggle becomes evident when selecting a topic for this article that would appeal to all generations. Feedback from friends and elders revealed the generational preferences in topic choices. This highlights the core issue of intergenerational clash, which the church must address before it leads to a crash. Terms like “cross-generational interactions” and “intergenerational interactions” are used interchangeably to describe engagements between people of different age groups. This trend has intensified interactional problems and conflicts between different generations.

The intergenerational conflict is not exclusive to the Church but presents a unique challenge. As an institution that admits all generations without restrictions, the Church faces the task of addressing this phenomenon. The decline in the number of Methodists in Ghana, for instance, has been attributed to the intergenerational gap. Church leaders at all levels must take a critical look at ministry to children, teens, and young adults to ensure strategic engagement and growth.

Over a decade ago, church leaders recognised the need for strategic ministry to cater to the increasing youth population. The current chairman has continued to emphasise this viewpoint, introducing innovative approaches to ministry that foster an intergenerational and multicultural environment. Within each generation, there may be sections with differing views on leadership focus and practices. This necessitates intentional engagement at all levels, particularly in local assemblies, to address generational conflicts and bridge the gap in godly and modern ways.

Scholars identify generational blocs differently, but the commonly accepted ones are Veterans, Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zeds. A quick look at these age brackets highlights the significant gap that exists. The church leader must find ways to serve each generation appropriately, considering their unique responses, preferences, energy levels, and needs, ensuring everyone leaves the church fulfilled.

For example, a Baby Boomer may arrive at church late due to the time it takes to prepare at that age, while a Gen Zed energetically praises God through dance. The Baby Boomer may sit or stand, perplexed by the younger generation’s behavior, and eventually doze off. A Millennial usher may wake them up harshly, leading to feeble protests from the Boomer. Meanwhile, the chatty Gen Zeds comment on every church activity. Segregation and division may gradually emerge. The challenge is to find solutions that ensure all generations can partake in the feast of the Lord, addressing these situations with care and inclusivity. (Exodus 10:9).To be continued.

REFERENCES

Barsukov, V. N. (2018). Barriers to Social Integration of the Older Generation in Context of Intergenerational Communication Issues. Economic and social changes-facts trends forecast, 11(5), 214–230 

Urick, M. (2014). The presentation of self: dramaturgical theory and generations in organisations. Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, 12(4), 398–412

Guseltseva, M. C. (2017). Features of the intergenerational relations in the conditions of transitive society. World of Psychology, 1(89), 38–51

Venter, E. (2017). Bridging the communication gap between Generation Y and the Baby Boomer generation. International Journal of Adolescence and Youth, 22(4), 497–507  

Written by Pastor George Osei-Asiedu

Christian Women Must Serve As Role Models In The Church & Community - Mrs. Mary Nyamekye

Christian Women Must Serve As Role Models In The Church & Community – Mrs. Mary Nyamekye

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesWomen's Ministry

Mrs. Mary Nyamekye, the wife of the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, has said that Christian women possess a unique capacity to nurture spiritual growth and serve as role models within the local church and the community.

Mrs Nyamekye gave this charge to Christian women on Wednesday, July 5, 2023, when she participated in the recently-held weekly prayer meeting of the Kasoa Area Women’s Ministry at the Mountain View Worship Centre, Tuba.

Referencing Titus 2:3-5, she encouraged older women to teach younger women and to lead by example in matters of faith, love, purity, and homemaking.

Mrs. Nyamekye also stated that prayer holds immense power in the life of the church, hence like Hannah (1 Samuel 1:10-11) Christian women can fervently intercede for the needs of the congregation, the leaders, and the community.

“Women can lead prayer groups, organise prayer events, and encourage others to deepen their prayer lives,” she said, adding that by exemplifying a life of prayer, they can inspire other women to embrace the transformative power of intercession.

Mrs Nyamekye also emphasised the importance of hospitality and its significant avenue for Christian women to create an environment of warmth, love, and acceptance within the church community.

Referring to Romans 12:13, she said women help strengthen the church’s hospitality by facilitating gatherings, welcoming newcomers, and ensuring that everyone feels included and cared for.

“The efforts made in creating a hospitable atmosphere can foster meaningful connections and facilitate the growth of the church family, ” she said.

The wife of the Chairman further encouraged Christian women to possess valuable insights and gifts that can contribute to the teaching and discipleship ministries within the local church.

She cited Priscilla in Acts 18:26, who, alongside her husband Aquila, rightly divided the word of God and helped in expounding the way of the Lord to Apollos.

“Likewise, women can actively participate in Bible studies, Sunday School classes, or Women’s Ministry groups, where they can share their knowledge and passion for God’s word,” she said

Touching on the impact of Christian women on the community, Mrs. Nyamekye said they can actively engage in serving the community by demonstrating Christ’s love through compassionate actions.

She explained that since Christians are enjoined by Scriptures  to do good to all (Galatians 6:10), Christian women must also reach out to their communities through outreach programmes, support charitable initiatives, and encourage others to participate in acts of service.

“By embodying Christ’s love in practical ways, Christian women can inspire others to impact their local communities as well,” she said.

Mrs. Nyamekye ended her message by challenging women to rise to the occasion and make an impactful difference within the local church by embracing their roles as spiritual nurturers, prayer warriors, hospitable hosts, teachers, and servants, they can positively influence those around them.

PENTECOST NEWS

Live The COP Brand! – Apostle Kumi-Larbi Urges Missionaries web

Live The COP Brand! – Apostle Kumi-Larbi Urges Missionaries

by with No Comment Church NewsMissionsMoving With GsTop Stories

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost (CoP), Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, has emphasized the importance of missionaries embracing a Christ-centered lifestyle that aligns with the values and principles of The Church of Pentecost, regardless of their location.

According to the General Secretary, “Over the years, The Church of Pentecost has built a Christ-centered brand with our core values, culture, and rules of conduct handed down to us as a legacy from our forebears, which we must preserve and pass on to the next generation.”

He made this call when addressing the newly-called missionaries to the internal and external mission areas of the Church yesterday at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

Delivering a paper on “Deepening The COP Brand,” Apostle Kumi-Larbi emphasised that “for the past 80 years, our forebears, being careful in observing the instructions in the covenant, the tenets, core values, church culture, and rules of conduct of the church, have given the CoP a unique and enviable brand which ought to be guarded jealously.

He encouraged all ministers and members of the church to brand themselves with the values and principles of Christ. He said that, like every other church, The Church of Pentecost has its own culture and foundational beliefs at the heart of its theology, governing system, and practical expression of Christian life and ministry.

“As a church, we love and cherish these practices so dearly. Everyone who comes into our fold must know and diligently apply themselves to these,” he stated.

He reiterated the need to reposition the church in this generation as a clarion call to deepen the brand as a church.

“We want to make The COP brand stronger and more intense to bring clarity to it and cause our members to become more interested in the church. These are virtues and values that must be jealously guarded and bequeathed from one generation to the other,” he added.

He urged the missionaries to carry a distinctive character of Christ, which has contributed to building a strong church through selfless service, sound biblical teaching, good leadership and succession, evangelism and discipleship, sacrificial giving, fellowship, and discipline.

“It thus behooves this generation to know, uphold, and jealously guard these time-tested Pentecostal distinctive attributes as we seek to reposition the local church for maximum impact,” he stressed.

The General Secretary concluded by saying that although the church began with people who were not so educated, yet, the Holy Ghost inspired them to create a brand that has made the church unique, distinguished, and respected in the world.

PENTECOST NEWS

PENSA-Cape Coast Sector Organises Leadership Summit web

PENSA-Cape Coast Sector Organises Leadership Summit

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

The third edition of the “Uncommon Leadership Summit” (ULS) organised by the Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA), Cape Coast Sector, took place from Friday, June 30, to Saturday, July 1, 2023.

The two-day residential event, held for the SCT, SCC, LCC, Working Team, and Patrons/Patronesses, was held under the theme “Repositioned to Lead for Maximum Impact on Campus” (Colossians 2:6-7; John 14:12) and took place at the Miracle Centre Auditorium of PENSA-Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU).

Held at the zonal levels – Cape Coast, Twifo Praso, and Dunkwa zones respectively – with over 180 participants, the summit aimed to reposition and ground PENSA leaders in Christ and empower them to make a maximum impact on their respective campuses.

The ULS began with a short video presentation on leadership, which encouraged PENSA leaders to avail themselves of leadership responsibilities, as they have been chosen by God to lead.

Pastor Joseph Zoot, the PENSA Traveling Secretary for the Mankesim Sector, spoke on the main theme of the summit.

In his presentation, he explained who a leader is and what it takes to be an uncommon leader.

Pastor Zoot mentioned that “to accomplish your goals as a leader, you should be enlightened in the word of God, believe in what God has deposited in you, and be firmly rooted and grounded in Christ.”

He also encouraged the participants to be leaders of influence who are filled with the Holy Spirit.

After sharing the spiritual and physical qualities of a leader with the participants, Pastor Zoot led the church in a session of intensive prayer for the infilling of the Holy Spirit.

The programme continued the next day with a presentation from the convener of the Uncommon Leadership Summit, Pastor Blessing Joseph Quayson, the PENSA Traveling Secretary for the Sector, who spoke on “The COP Brand – the Core Values of the Church.”

Pastor Quayson stated that “what makes us unique and distinct as a church is our brand, which includes core values, tenets of the church, and rules of conduct.”

He explained that core values are the things the Church holds in high esteem, such as evangelism, discipleship, ministry excellence, prayer, leadership development, church culture, tithe and offering, consistent Bible teachings, etc.

Pastor Quayson urged the PENSA leaders to study the core values and rules of conduct of CoP, as they make the Church distinct from others. He also encouraged PENSA leaders to serve wholeheartedly and sacrificially in the church and help build the local assemblies for maximum impact.

Elder Evans Darko Addo, a member of the Working Team, spoke on the topic “What is expected from a Repositioned PENSA Leader.” He pointed out that a repositioned PENSA leader is expected to be loyal, above reproach, faithful in doing the work of God, and a soul winner.

The wife of the Traveling Secretary, Mrs. Esther Mansa Annan Quayson, continued with a talk on the topic “Is this Love” from 1 Samuel 13:1-23. She challenged the participants to pray effectively and seek godly counsel before entering into any relationship.

The summit ended with a prayer and impartation session led by Elder Bismark Afrifa Marfo, the Sector’s Financial Secretary, during which three participants received Holy Spirit baptism.

The 2023 edition of the Uncommon Leadership Summit was unique because some of the patrons/patronesses within the Cape Coast zone were invited to share their experiences and expectations.

Also present at the event were Mrs. Monica Zoot (Wife of Mankesim Travelling Secretary), Deaconess Rebecca Quarm (Patrons’ Representative on the Working Team) and other patrons.

The following institutions in the Cape Coast zone participated in the programme: Cape Coast Technical University (CCTU), Cape Coast Nursing and Midwifery Training college (CCNMTC), Psychiatric Nursing and Midwifery Training College (PNMTC), Ola College of Education (OLACOE), Komenda College of Education (KOMENCOE).

Report by Agnes Odei (PENSA CCTU Assistant Secretary)

129 Ministerial Students Commissioned Into Full-Time Ministry web

129 Ministerial Students Commissioned Into Full-Time Ministry

by with No Comment Church NewsTop Stories

One hundred and twenty-nine ministerial students of the 2022/2023 batch of the Pentecost School of Theology and Missions (PSTM) at Pentecost University were commissioned into the full-time ministry of The Church of Pentecost.

The commissioning service, which was held yesterday at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, was officiated by the Chancellor of Pentecost University and Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye.

The ministerial students comprised 114 Ghanaians and 15 from The Church of Pentecost’s external branches, including Nigeria, Liberia, Angola, Libya, India, Zimbabwe, Equatorial Guinea and Thailand.

Apostle Nyamekye highlighted the challenges young men and their wives face when responding to God’s call to serve in remote places.

He encouraged the newly commissioned ministers to continuously expand their knowledge and skills to become versatile in their calling.

To enhance the spiritual experience of the commissioned ministers, Apostle Nyamekye urged Area Heads to provide guidance and nurture them, emphasising the importance of sharing experiences and supporting their positive development.

The Chairman called on the church community to uplift the young ministers in prayer, ensuring their ministry success and ability to make a difference as co-workers in the Lord’s vineyard.

Addressing the ministers, Apostle Nyamekye emphasised the significance of being authentic Christians who demonstrate Christ in their daily lives.

He urged them to extend their influence beyond congregations and impact various spheres of society with the Kingdom of God’s values, principles, and lifestyle.

The Vice-Chancellor of Pentecost University, Apostle Professor Kwabena Agyapong-Kodua, reminded the ministers to keep Jesus as their focal point and rely on the Holy Spirit for their ministry.

He stressed that their dependency on the Holy Spirit would determine His work in and through them.

Apostle Dr Benjamin Ali, the Downtown-Ofaakor Area Head, encouraged the ministers to trust in God for their needs in ministry, highlighting the support and collaboration required for maximum impact.

Some members of the Executive Council attended the commissioning ceremony, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi (General Secretary, The COP); Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang Bekoe (International Missions Director); Apostle Samuel Yaw Antwi (Central Regional RCC Co-ordinator & Cape Coast Area Head); Prophet David Kankam Beditor (Greater Accra RCC Co-ordinator & Ashaiman Area Head); Apostle Samuel Osei Asante (Kaneshie Area Head), Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi (General Secretary-Elect & Asamankese Area Head), Area Heads, and Directors of Ministries.

Also present were faculty members and staff of Pentecost University, Apostle Dr Emmanuel Anim (Pro-VC and Director of PSTM); Apostle Johnny Lartey Peprah (Assistant Registrar, PSTM); Aps. Dr Christian Tsekpoe (Director, Post Graduate Studies and Research Directorate); Ps. Francis Broni (Chaplain, PSTM); Mr Foster Kobina Amoani (Registrar, Pentecost University); Mr Michael W. K. Gyimah (Chief Information Officer), Mr Abraham Nyebar (Ag. Chief Finance Officer), and HODs.

PENTECOST NEWS

‘Arrest’ Children For Christ Before The Police Arrest Them For Crime – Children's Workers Told web

‘Arrest’ Children For Christ Before The Police Arrest Them For Crime – Children’s Workers Told

by with No Comment Children's MinistryChurch NewsTop Stories

In a passionate plea to children’s workers, Apostle Semenya Yao Dogbe, the Takoradi Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, has emphasised the urgent need to “arrest children for Christ” before they fall victim to a life of crime.

Delivering a presentation titled “How the Children Ministry is Run in the Takoradi Area” at the ongoing 2023 Foundation Builders Conference (FBC’23) of the Children’s Ministry, Apostle Dogbe highlighted the critical importance of instilling moral and spiritual values in children during their formative years.

Drawing inspiration from Luke 18:16-18, where Jesus calls for children to come to Him, Apostle Dogbe stressed the need to catch children at a young age for Christ, ensuring their transplantation into the House of God and securing the future sustenance and growth of the church.

Quoting Psalm 92:13-14, he emphasised the promise that those transplanted into the Lord’s own house will flourish, remaining fruitful and vibrant even in old age.

Apostle Dogbe acknowledged the challenging world in which children live today, characterised by occultism, violence, disregard for authority, high rates of drug abuse, negative influences from social media, and various forms of sexualism.

He expressed concern over the dangerous trend of some children being trained for terrorism instead of being equipped to spread the gospel. He questioned whose responsibility it is to save these children for Christ before they become victims of crime themselves.

Aligning with the Church’s vision for 2023, “Possessing the Nations,” the Takoradi Area has placed a strong focus on the children’s ministry.

According to him, the leadership, workers, and members have been diligently nurturing and equipping children with the principles and values of the Kingdom, fostering their growth in wisdom, stature, and favour with God and humanity.

Citing Mark 9:36-37, where Jesus welcomes and values children, Apostle Dogbe emphasised that children have a share in His kingdom.

Apostle Dogbe said that. Children make up 27.91% of the total church membership of the Takoradi Area, emphasising that with these impressive statistics, Takoradi Area Children’s Ministry can potentially become a missions field for The Church of Pentecost in the future.

He outlined some activities the ministry undertook in addition to Sunday morning classes, such as intergenerational services, Jethro initiative classes, community clubs, and teachers’ training sessions.

He said the ministry has also implemented flagship projects of the Children’s Ministry, including the Box Library and One-Child-One-Bible.

He also stated that the Children’s Ministry collaborates with the Home and Urban Ministry (HUM), Ministry to People with Disability (MPWDS), and the School Outreach Ministry to reach out to children and orphanages, visit hospital children’s wards, and connect with basic schools.

“Additionally, the Takoradi Area generously donated 214 half pieces of clothing, valued at GHC 26,040.00, to minister’s wives in eight internal missions areas in Ghana.

“Takoradi Area Children’s Ministry donated 214 half pieces of cloth to ministers’ wives in eight areas of internal missions of Ghana valued at GHC 26,040.00. The presentation took place at PCC during the November Head’s meeting in 2022,” he said.

The second edition of the Foundation Builders’ Conference is currently underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, under the theme: “Rekindling the Zeal of the Children’s Worker for Maximum Impact.” The four-day conference, which began on Tuesday, July 5, 2023, had over 1000 children’s workers in attendance nationwide.

PENTECOST NEWS.