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The Church Of Pentecost Commends Jospong Group & CSIR For Food Security Conference

The Church of Pentecost has lauded the Jospong Group of Companies and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) for organising the maiden Ghana Food Security Conference.

The conference, being held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, aims to address the issue of food security in Ghana and explore ways to enhance it through collaborating with Ghanaian scientists.

The event, themed “Enhancing Food Security: The Role of Ghanaian Scientists,” has brought together over 200 scientists, experts and stakeholders in and outside the country to discuss practical ways of improving Ghana’s food security situation.

In a speech delivered on behalf of the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, the General Secretary of the Church, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, commended Elder Dr. Joseph Siaw-Agyapong, Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group of Companies, for his commitment to improving the lives of people and introducing the unique idea of strengthening public and private sector collaboration for food sufficiency.

According to the General Secretary, The Church of Pentecost sees the conference as a significant and timely initiative to help Ghana achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2: “End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.”

He further noted that the objectives of the conference align with the Church’s five-year vision of “Possessing the Nations,” and therefore, assured Elder Dr. Siaw-Agyapong of the Church’s unwavering support in various ways to fulfil the food security vision.

“The Church of Pentecost believes that by equipping its members with the values, principles, and lifestyles of the Kingdom of God, we can actively contribute to the nation’s transformational development, just as Elder Siaw Agyepong and his wife, Mrs. Cynthian Agyepong (Chief Executive Officer of the Asian African Consortium), are doing in addressing food security challenges,” he said.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi, therefore, lauded the partnership between the CSIR, known for its mandate to drive national development through scientific and technological research, and the Asian African Consortium (AAC) of the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC).

The African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development reports that around 1.5 million Ghanaians experience food insecurity, with undernutrition, overnutrition, and micronutrient deficiencies persisting across all life stages.

The 2023 Ghana Food Security Conference is expected to provide a platform for Ghanaian scientists, experts and stakeholders to share knowledge, strategies, and innovative solutions to deal with this worrying trend.

The conference’s objective is that these steps would be implemented to produce enough food to feed Ghanaians and even explore opportunities for food exportation.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Stakeholders Gather To Enhance Food Production & Combat Food Insecurity

GHAFSEC 2023: Stakeholders Gather To Enhance Food Production & Combat Food Insecurity

The Ghana Food Security Conference 2023 (GHAFSEC) is underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) in Gomoa Fetteh. The conference, being broadcast live on Pent TV and Metro TV, has brought together a diverse group of stakeholders in and outside Ghana to address the country’s critical issue of food security.

Prominent figures such as Apostle Eric Nyamekye (Chairman, The Church of Pentecost), represented by Apostle N.Y. Kumi-Larbi, Elder Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong (Executive Chairman, Jospong Group of Companies), Mrs. Adelaide Agyepong (Chief Executive Officer, Asian African Consortium) and Prof. Paul P. Bosu (Director-General of Council for Scientific and Industrial Research), among several others are taking part in the event.

In his address, the General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, highlighted the country’s current challenges of food insecurity, including undernutrition, overnutrition, and micronutrient deficiencies.

He, therefore, commended the initiatives of the Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), the Asian African Consortium (AAC), and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in driving collaboration and innovation towards ensuring food sufficiency.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi also assured JGC/AAC and the CSIR of the Church’s unwavering support in ensuring that the shared dream becomes a reality.

He cited the biblical example of Joseph in Egypt, who successfully implemented a stockpiling system to ensure food security during times of drought and expressed optimism that the conference would achieve its intended objective.

Elder Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, representing the Jospong Group of Companies, emphasised the significance of the venue’s religious atmosphere and the gathering of experts from academia and industry in addressing food security. He also highlighted the attempt of successive governments to address the issue but to no avail while acknowledging the key role of scientists and researchers in dealing with the challenge.

Dr. Agyepong, therefore, expressed Jospong Group’s commitment as a private sector entity to collaborate with scientists and researchers in tackling food security challenges.

He drew parallels to their successful waste management endeavours and stated his outfit’s readiness to support the translation of innovative research in the food sector into practical applications.

According to him, food insecurity contributes to Ghana’s high inflation rate and called for the government’s support in dealing with this once and for all, and reiterated Jospong Group’s willingness to serve the research community and collaborate on all fronts.

In her statement, Mrs. Adelaide Agyepong also expressed gratitude to the participants and highlighted the crucial role of science, research, and development in driving innovation and productivity in the agricultural sector.

She emphasised that agriculture continues to be the backbone of the Ghanaian economy, providing a source of income for about 45% of the population.

Mrs. Agyepong further acknowledged the presence of foreign partners from Thailand and Nigeria at the conference, noting that their expertise and experiences in rice production would enrich the discussions. She also stressed the need for immediate measures to enhance food production to combat rising food prices and the risk of increased food imports.

Prof. Paul P. Bosu, Director-General of CSIR, on his part, emphasised the importance of the partnership between the Jospong Group of Companies, the Asian African Consortium, and CSIR in addressing Ghana’s food security concerns.

He highlighted the need to establish inter-institutional technical teams and develop action plans to enhance the production of selected commodities such as rice, jute, maize, soya bean, tomato, and onion.

Prof. Bosu also underscored the significance of efficient coordination, accountability, and financing at the local level to transform Africa’s food systems.

The Ghana Food Security Conference 2023 serves as a crucial platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions and collaboration to enhance food production in the country.

The goal is to bridge the gaps in Ghana’s food security situation through innovation, investment, and sharing best practices. With the participation of local and international partners, the conference provides an opportunity to develop actionable plans, establish timelines, and allocate resources for sustainable food production in Ghana.

As the conference continues, it is hoped that the discussions and partnerships formed will pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future, ensuring that Ghanaians have access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to lead active and healthy lives.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Anyaa-Ablekuma Area Donates To Missionsweb

Anyaa-Ablekuma Area Donates To Missions

The Anyaa-Ablekuma Area of The Church of Pentecost, led by Apostle William Ohemeng-Kwakye, has made a significant donation to support missions work in and outside Ghana.

The donated items received by the Yendi, Sawla, and Tumu Areas included 105 pieces of half-piece cloth, 30 pieces of two-yard cloth material, 3 pieces of kente, 6 pieces of lace, 11 pairs of shoes, 16 pieces of women’s scarves, and 10 bedsheets.

The Anyaa-Ablekuma Area also purchased and donated four motorbikes to different areas for evangelistic purposes.

The Tempane District in Bawku Area also received a Royal motorbike, while the Sankpala District in Tamale Area was gifted a Haojue motorbike. The Aglakope District in Hohoe Area and the Jinavore District in Sawla Area were each provided with a Royal motorbike. In addition, the area donated a cash amount of GHȼ20,000.00 to the Zoipe District in Ho Area for the purchase of a tricycle.

The Anyaa-Ablekuma Area has also extended its benevolence beyond its borders. The area provided financial support to the external mission in Guinea Bissau, with a generous cash amount of GHȼ20,000.00 given to aid the purchase of essential evangelistic equipment.

This donation by the Anyaa-Ablekuma Area of the Church of Pentecost has been highly appreciated and commended for its commitment to supporting missions work.

The recipients of the donation have expressed their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for the valuable contribution made towards their evangelistic efforts.

This generous act of kindness by the Anyaa-Ablekuma Area will go a long way in supporting the missions’ work and improving the lives of many people.

Report by Anyaa-Ablekuma Area Media Team

Dambai Junction District Organises Mass Wedding For 7 Couplesweb

Dambai Junction District Organises Mass Wedding For 7 Couples

The Dambai Junction District in the Nkwanta Area of The Church of Pentecost organized a mass wedding for seven couples in the church on Saturday, May 6, 2023.

The historic event, the first of its kind in the district, was heavily attended by members of the church as well as community folks.

The District Minister, Pastor Michael Osei-Frempong, who officiated the service, was full of praise for the couples for accepting to be part of the event.

The couples, all of whom had already undergone the customary rites, could not hide their joy for having their marriages blessed.

Delivering the sermon on the theme “Patience in Marriage,” with scripture taken from Galatians 5:22, Elder Jacob Danso advised the couples to exercise patience in their marriages to foster peace and harmony in their homes.

The programme was attended by high-profile personalities in the area, including Mr. Emmanuel Obonda (Krachi Nchomuru Constituency Chairman), Miss Linda Mensah Koranchie (Krachi Government Hospital), King David Nkabonam (Oti Regional YEA Director), Mr. Patrick Koranteng (Deputy Director YEA), Mr. Nketia Safo (NDC Constituency Secretary, Krachi East), Mr. Aduan Dranford (Family Head), Hon. Samuel Owusu (NPP, Krachi East), and Apostle Noah Adeti (Miracle Prayer Ministry).

The heavy downpour after the occasion was indeed indicative of God’s blessings on the marriages.

Report by Nkwanta Area Media Team.

Presentation to the chief imam

Women’s Ministry Of The Church Of Pentecost Supports Religious Leaders In Akosombo

The Women’s Ministry of the New Combine District in the Agormanya Area of The Church of Pentecost recently reached out to various religious leaders in Akosombo, donating stationery and other items to them.

Led by Mrs Esther Kesse, the wife of the District Minister, the team visited notable figures such as Togbe Avor, a renowned fetish priest in the area, as well as the Chief Imam and others.

During the team’s visit, Togbe Avor graciously interrupted his ongoing annual festival to receive the women. Surprised and touched to witness a Christian fellowship in his shrine, Togbe Avor expressed his gratitude and shared that even his own Christian family members had abandoned him since he became the fetish priest 19 years ago.

Togbe Avor’s appreciation led to a subsequent visit from District Minister, Pastor Martin Berko Kesse, accompanied by some elders, who presented him with a church diary as per his request.

Overwhelmed with joy, Togbe Avor confessed that The Church of Pentecost’s demonstration of goodwill would foster peaceful coexistence among religious leaders. He encouraged his followers and TV viewers to attend The Church of Pentecost.

The team then visited the Chief Imam at his residence in Akosombo, offering a hamper and various church souvenirs as a gesture of support. The Chief Imam praised The Church of Pentecost and emphasized that the women’s actions set an example of harmony among different religious groups.

He expressed his gratitude for the footprints left by the Women’s Ministry and shared that he regularly listened to the Pentecost Hour broadcast on the information centre in the town. He promised to encourage his Muslim brothers to tune in as well.

Finally, the ministry concluded their day by visiting Nene George Chawe’s palace, the Chief of Kokonor, in Akosombo. The chief warmly welcomed the team and requested a prayer service with his entire family. The Women’s Ministry then presented a hamper and various stationery items to the chief.

Impressed by the visit, the chief invited the church to fellowship with him and his family in the palace regularly.

Report by Esther Kesse.

RIDE ON THE WINGS OF THE GOSPEL WEB

Ride On The Wings Of The Gospel

We live in very exciting times. We hear of the amazing waves of souls coming to Christ, and the news gets better when it comes from places that were unreachable in the past, and where preachers were brutally prevented with many becoming martyrs.

All over the world, there are news reports of people encountering the Lord Jesus Christ in visions and dreams, especially in the worlds of other religions. These revelations are always about Christ leading the people to accept Him as their Lord and Saviour. Incredible as this may sound, it is also a sad commentary on us as Christians that perhaps we are leaving our core mandate of witnessing to the world undone, compelling the Master to practically set foot in the field He left for us.

In Matthew 28:18–20, Jesus revealed that all authority had been given to Him, and commissioned every Christian beginning from the disciples to ‘GO therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptising…and teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you…’. The resultant effect of Christ’s authority is our GOing to make disciples. The New King James Version of the Bible clarifies it; since Christ has the authority, we are equipped, boldened and entrusted, therefore, with making disciples of all nations. It is our assignment; when we fail God by keeping quiet, then Christ will bypass us to let ‘stones’ cry out (Luke 19:40) with the salvation message to a world in dire need of it (Romans 8:19). In preaching the gospel, we praise and please God with one of the highest kinds of worship we can give.

Jesus Christ will build His Church, with or without you and me. He will always have a remnant, but for those who do not ‘Go’ to make others disciples, this form of disobedient would have made them members of the gates of Hades, which try to prevail against the Church without avail (Matthew 16:18). Whenever someone comes to the saving knowledge of Christ and confesses Christ as their Lord and Saviour, they join Peter in making that confession of Christ as the Rock in Matthew 16:16 upon which the Church is being built. On this acknowledgement and acceptance, they automatically become additional human blocks laid on the Church Christ is building. However, before they become part of the building (make the confession), they must be moulded into blocks (preached to). This work is the responsibility of the co-labourers (Christians) and not the master (Christ).

As we mark Evangelism Week in The Church of Pentecost, this responsibility placed on us must drive us and carry us on to bring all other sheep outside the pen (John 10:16) through the only Way (John 14:6) into the pen (God’s Kingdom). Let us not relegate this task to visions and dreams of Christ to the unsaved. We must be seen on the ‘Go’. And as we go, we must reach all nations.

In the light of reaching all nations, the introduction of special ministries in The Church of Pentecost must be of interest to all Christians. These special ministries, such as Home and Urban Missions (HUM), Schools Outreach Ministry (SOM), Pentecost Workers’ Guild (PeWG), Ministry to Royals and Politicians, and Ministry to Persons with Disabilities (MPWDs), must be part of the fore-burner as we endeavour to reach all nations. These have become wings of the gospel we must all ride on to get the gospel going.

On May 13, 2023, the Okyeame (royal linguist) of Gomoa Jukwa in the Central Region of Ghana, Okyeame Kobina Akwando I, was laid to rest. As I sat through the burial service and heard the tributes read in memory of a man who was a Christian for just seven (7) months, I asked myself, ‘What if the gospel had not flown to this man?’

The introduction of the special ministries by Apostle Eric Kwabena Nyamekye, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, as part of the roadmap to achieving the church’s Vision 2023 mandate of possessing the nations, birthed a passion for embarking on ministry to the ghettoes and people living with disabilities in Swedru. The Lord blessed us, and an Assembly (local church) was opened for the hearing-impaired. One of the founding members of the Assembly was Sister Elizabeth Akwando, daughter of the late linguist. Through her, we got to know her family, which had all her siblings having a hearing impairment. Virtually the entire family except the Okyeame and his wife did not have the impairment.

The church took particular interest in their situation to offer any assistance we could. We also shared the gospel with the family; over time, Elizabeth’s life influenced her father and many household members to accept Christ. It is said that Okyeame Akwando I, a hard man to deal with, suddenly became sober and humane, and soon members of the royal family were influenced to accept Christ. Some members of the chief’s palace who had abandoned going to church soon started attending their former churches again due to the transformation they saw in Okyeame Akwando. This is the testimony of what preaching the gospel to just one soul can do. First, it was just Elizabeth, but today, the message has reached her entire family and the larger royal families of Gomoa Jukwa.

Every Christian is blessed with the mandate to ride on the wings of the gospel and get it to the world. When God saw the Ethiopian Eunuch searching the Scriptures, He sent Philip to preach the gospel to him, not angels or visions (Acts 8:26–31). Again, when the Centurion was visited by an angel for his devotion, he was asked to look for Peter (Acts 10:1–44). For ‘…how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? (Romans 10:14).

We have all been called to evangelise (Romans 10:15, Matthew 20:19). Let us gird our loins and get going. For we bear the gospel of peace on our feet (Ephesians 6:15). Those are “beautiful feet” (Romans 10:15); let us bring them to the world. Take a ride on the wings of the gospel, be a Philip and visit a confused world that needs to understand this Jesus you have (Acts 8:31). Hark the clarion call!

Written by George Osei-Asiedu

Aboakyer Festival Evangelism Outreach Records Over A Thousand Soulsweb

Aboakyer Festival Evangelism Outreach Records Over A Thousand Souls

In the heartland of Ghana’s Central Region, amidst the vibrant celebrations of the Aboakyer Festival, an extraordinary event unfolded, bringing forth a spiritual awakening and touching the lives of countless individuals.

This ancient bushbuck hunting festival, revered for its rich historical significance, drew both locals and tourists alike to the vibrant town of Winneba.

However, this year’s festivities took on an even more profound meaning as the Evangelism Ministry of The Church of Pentecost saw an opportunity to illuminate the festival with the light of the gospel message of Christ.

Led by the esteemed Elder Dr. Ken Aboah Esq., a trustee of The Church of Pentecost and a member of the Ministry’s National Executive Committee, the Evangelism team collaborated with the Winneba Area of the Church to embark on a series of evangelistic activities.

With passion burning in their hearts, the dedicated team engaged in a diverse range of outreach endeavours. They traversed the streets, knocking on doors and sharing the message of Christ through heartfelt conversations during their house-to-house evangelism efforts.

Emblazoned with powerful messages, they carried eye-catching placards, boldly proclaiming the good news to the festival-goers. And in a demonstration of compassionate care, they organised remarkable medical outreach, providing much-needed healthcare assistance to those in need.

The evangelistic activities reverberated throughout the festival, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of those who encountered the team.

The result of their unwavering dedication was astounding—a staggering 1037 individuals opened their hearts to the transformative power of Christ. Such a tremendous response filled the team’s spirits with overwhelming joy, as they witnessed lives being forever changed.

Among the countless testimonies of salvation, one story stood out as a testament to God’s miraculous touch. The team came in contact with a young man, plagued by the distressing condition of being unable to urinate without a catheter. With faith and compassion, they laid their hands upon him, praying fervently for his healing. Astonishingly, in a remarkable twist of fate, the young man experienced an instantaneous restoration of his bodily functions. No longer reliant on medical intervention, he rejoiced in the newfound freedom of being able to urinate naturally, witnessing the miraculous power of Christ firsthand.

In another awe-inspiring encounter, a man who had long been entrenched in occult practices made a life-altering decision. Captivated by the irresistible love of Christ, he surrendered his former life and willingly relinquished his talisman. This symbolic act signified a profound shift in his spiritual journey as he embraced the path of righteousness and renounced the darkness that had once consumed him. The talisman, a haunting reminder of his past, was consigned to the flames, forever vanquished by the radiant light of God’s grace.

The Aboakyer Festival, already known for its cultural splendour, became a profound testament to the transformative power of the gospel message. Lives were forever altered, souls were redeemed, and the town of Winneba basked in the glorious aftermath of a remarkable spiritual revival.

PENTECOST NEWS

KP1 English Assembly Unveils Children's Box Library WEB

KP1 English Assembly Unveils “Children’s Box Library”

The English Assembly of Kwabenya Point One (KP1) District in the Achimota Area of The Church of Pentecost officially launched the Children’s Ministry “Box Library” Project last Sunday.

The project, worth GHS 2,700.00, is stocked with 105 complete Bibles and other stationery items, etc.

The launching ceremony took place at the Children’s Ministry Quarters and was officiated by the District Minister, Pastor James Mckeown.

In his short exposition, Pastor McKeown encouraged all Children’s workers and officers in the Assembly to continue their good work.

He urged them to raise the standard of the Children’s Ministry with innovative projects like this, in order to bring more children in the community to Christ.

Among those present at the event were Elder Derek Owusu (Achimota Area Children’s Ministry Secretary), Elder Twum Boavo (KP1 District Secretary), Elder Samuel Oko Mensah (English Assembly Presiding Elder), and Sister Doreen Mensah (English Assembly Children’s Ministry Leader).

Report by Elder Derek Owusu

Tamale Area Pastorate & Wives Schooled On Emotional Stability WEB

Tamale Area Pastorate & Wives Schooled On Emotional Stability

The Tamale Area of The Church of Pentecost organised a seminar on emotional stability for ministers and their wives in the area.

The event, which took place on Thursday, May 11, 2023, was facilitated by Elder Eric Agyapong, the Head of Mental Health at the Tamale Metropolitan District of the Ghana Health Service (GHS).

During his presentation, Elder Eric Agyapong emphasized the importance of ministers and their wives demonstrating a high level of emotional stability. He highlighted that emotional stability builds self-esteem and portrays maturity.

He further explained that the absence of emotional stability in the daily interactions of Church leaders with their members and officers can create a perception of chaos and mental or psychological weakness.

Referring to Proverbs 24:10, he emphasized that one’s emotional stability is tested in times of adversity or provocation. Therefore, ministers and their wives must be conscious of their reactions in such situations, as they are closely observed by those they interact with.

The Mental Health Officer then took the audience through the various stages of the grieving process.

He stated that the first stage is denial, followed by aggression or anger, and then bargaining. Other stages include acceptance, which, if not achieved, can lead to fixation at the depression stage and result in serious mental health issues.

Giving special attention to the Minister’s Wife, Elder Eric Agyapong explained that she must first understand herself as a woman. Women experience various changes in their bodies on a regular basis, such as pregnancy, menopause, and menstruation, which can lead to mood swings due to hormonal fluctuations.

He further advised that the minister’s wife must also recognize her roles as a pastor’s wife, a mother, a ministry partner, and sometimes a career woman. She must intentionally equip herself to respond appropriately to the various stressors she may encounter from different aspects of her life. By doing so, she can protect her marriage, relationships, and ministry, he noted, while adding that “the grace of God will be sufficient.”

Among the attendees at the seminar were Apostle Sylvester Arhin (Tamale Area Head and Executive Council Member) and his wife, Mrs. Regina Arhin, as well as Pastor Bernard Aziz Mohammed Abogorago (Area Secretary).

Report by Overseer Isaac Kwabena Tagoe (Assistant Area Reporter)

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Assin Foso Area Registers 2,086 Children Onto NHIS

The Children’s Ministry of The Church of Pentecost in the Assin Foso Area has registered a total of 2,086 children onto the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

This took place during a two-day medical outreach the Church organised for children in some deprived communities in the Area.

The event, which took place in five centres, namely Assin Tebil, Assin Nnuannua, Assin Bereku, Assin Akropong and Assin Hasowode, brought together hundreds of children who were assessed and treated for various health conditions such as malaria, worm infestation, malnutrition, skin rashes among others. Children whose NHIS cards had expired were renewed.

Speaking to the media, Pastor Samuel Avornyo, the Area Children’s Ministry Leader, noted that the gesture was motivated by the concern for the physical well-being of children in deprived communities.

He added that the Area recorded some preventable child mortality cases in its annual reports, hence the outreach.

Pastor Avornyo thanked Tobinco Pharmaceuticals Limited and Elder Francis Mensah for donating drugs towards the project. He also paid glowing tribute to Elder Sam (Assin Foso Area Executive Assistant) for supporting financially to register some of the children onto the NHIS.

At the end of the two-day event, 906 people (898 children and eight adults) were screened and treated for various ailments, while 40 others were referred for further medical examination. To the glory of God, 153 souls, comprising 129 children and 24 adults, were won for the Lord.

Parents and children who benefitted from the medical outreach were full of praise to The Church of Pentecost and the sponsors.

Report by Pastor Samuel Avornyo, Area Reporter