Bolgatanga Area Donates Items Worth GH¢ 20,985.00 To Navrongo Central Prisons web

Bolgatanga Area Donates Items Worth GH¢ 20,985.00 To Navrongo Central Prisons

The Area Head, Apostle David Amankwaa, and his wife, Mrs. Rosemond Amankwaa, accompanied by 31 ministers and wives, along with some Church officers, presented the items, GH¢ 20,985.00, to the facility on Friday, December 15, 2023.

The donated items included bags of Gari, local rice, maize, millet, groundnut, T. Roll, soap, detergent, toothpaste, toothbrush, bottled water, sachet water, drugs, beans, and a cash donation of GH¢ 1,000.00.

Apostle David Amankwaa informed the officer in charge of the prisons, DSP Oscar Piuyire, that Scripture admonishes Christians to remember those in prisons (Hebrews 13:3), and the five-year strategic vision of The Church of Pentecost mandates Church members to minister to all classes of people, including the marginalised and the destitute.

DSP Oscar Piuyire, in receiving the items, expressed profound gratitude to the Church for the kind gesture shown to them.

He assured the Church that the donations would be used for their intended purpose and would go a long way to alleviate the plight of the inmates.

A gospel message was preached by Pastor Evans Kwesi Bawomiah on the topic, “I Bring You Good News” during their visit.

Reading from Luke 2:8-11 and 1 John 4:14, he explained that Jesus has been born to us, and whoever believes in Him would be saved.

The good news is that there is hope for those who believe in Jesus because God loves them.

Concluding his message, he told the inmates that how they came to the prison is not news anymore, but how they leave.

He encouraged them to accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour and be transformed so that they would leave the prisons transformed.

An altar call by Pastor Michael Peasah saw 49 inmates surrendering their lives to accept Christ, with all of them undergoing water baptism.

Eighteen of the inmates also rededicated their lives to God, while 10 received the Holy Spirit baptism with the evidence of speaking in tongues.

A hot lunch was served to all 200 inmates present, and they received it with joy.

One inmate (name undisclosed) on behalf of his brothers expressed their appreciation to the Church for their support and prayer.

He also pleaded with the Church to continue to support them by providing drugs for the infirmary to meet their health needs.

The visit ended after Apostle David Amankwaa had prayed for the officers and the inmates.

Report by Pastor Frank Ofori Attah (Bolga Area Media Committee Chairman).

PIWC-Sakumono Delegation Visits Nsawam Prison Transformation Assembly web

PIWC-Sakumono Delegation Visits Nsawam Prison Transformation Assembly

The Prisons Committee of the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Sakumono, paid a visit to the Transformation Assembly of The Church of Pentecost at Nsawam Medium Security Prison on Sunday, December 17, 2023.

The 21-member church delegation that undertook the visit was made up of the Resident Minister, Pastor Solomon Kwasi Kyei, some officers, and members.

According to the Assistant Prison Coordinator for PIWC-Sakumono, Elder Samuel Nkansah-Sakyi, the visit was to fellowship with the inmates, especially with the festive season approaching.

“Christmas is a period of celebration, so we came to celebrate with the inmates and put smiles on their faces,” he said.

The church delegation also donated items worth about GHS 12,000.00 to the inmates.

Receiving the items, Assistant Director of Prisons (ADP) Nii Armah Ayittey thanked the church for the show of love and asked for more such gestures from civil society and other churches.

The Resident Minister for the facility, Pastor (ASP) Thomas Owusu Brefo, who was also present, revealed that there are about 3,468 inmates in the Nsawam Medium prison.

He also mentioned that there are other denominations in the prison, all supporting the reformation of the inmates.

He thanked the team for the show of love and encouraged other organisations and churches to also come and support the inmates.

The visit coincided with the send-off service in honor of the Presiding Elder of the Assembly, Elder Frank Addo Yeboah, who had been incarcerated for the past 20 years, but presided over the assembly for the last eight years.

It was a joyous and memorable occasion for him and his family, who came in their numbers to witness the programme. The service was officiated by the Nsawam Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Francis Yaw Adu.

Delivering a sermon at the event, Apostle Yaw Adu urged the inmates and all gathered to know their purpose on earth, to try and finish the work assigned to them by God as salt and light of the world.

“May we shine wherever we go and may we carry the image and glory of God everywhere we go,” Apostle Yaw Adu said.

He read from John 4:34; 18:37-38; 1 Peter 5:4 and Luke 2:9, among other scriptures, and admonished all present to give themselves to the work of God as well as not give up on doing good to fellow Christians.

The occasion was also served as an induction service for the new Presiding Elder of the Assembly and his assistant.

Apostle Yaw Adu charged the incoming Presiding Elder and his assistant to continue with the good work of their predecessor.

“Leadership is a spirit; exemplify love, grace, and faith and demonstrate a transformation that has taken place within you,” he said.

Reading from 1 Timothy 3:1-16; 2 Timothy 4:1-8; 3:1-17, he charged the newly elected leaders of the transformation assembly to be responsible, accommodating, and above all show gratitude to their fellow inmates.

An altar call by Pastor Solomon Kwasi Kyei during the service yielded 15 souls to the glory of God.

Also present at the event was Pastor Percy Opoku Ahwenee Danquah, the Tsopoli District Minister, and Chairman of the Tema Area Prisons Committee.

Report by Yaa Asantewaah Adu Boahene.

Obuasi Area Holds Special Prayer Vigil For AngloGold Ashanti Amid Economic Concerns web

Obuasi Area Holds Special Prayer Vigil For AngloGold Ashanti Amid Economic Concerns

The Obuasi Area of The Church of Pentecost, led by Prophet David Kankam Beditor, organised an all-night prayer session on December 8, 2023, to intercede for the AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) Obuasi mine.

The AGA Obuasi mine, operational since 1897, has historically been a driving force behind Obuasi’s economic activities, providing substantial revenue and employment opportunities for the community. However, a recent closure and subsequent care and maintenance period led to a sharp downturn in the local economy, adversely affecting livelihoods dependent on the mine.

The mine, a cornerstone of the local economy, has faced challenges since its reopening, raising concerns about its viability and sustainability.

The prayer vigil, attended by over 7,000 members from 31 districts in the Obuasi Area, focused on seeking divine intervention for the company’s improved production, the well-being of its workers, and the overall prosperity of the Obuasi community. The event was under the theme, ‘Your Bitter Water Will Become Living Water,” inspired by Exodus 15:22.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by the mining industry, including environmental impacts, fluctuating gold prices, and security concerns, the leadership of the area expressed hope that through their prayers, God would bestow wisdom, guidance, and protection upon AngloGold Ashanti.

Prayers offered during the service extended beyond the company’s performance, encompassing the safety of workers, equipment, and operations, as well as the peace, harmony, and preservation of the natural environment in the Obuasi community.

Participants in the service expressed confidence that God has heard their pleas and will grant favor to AngloGold Ashanti, fostering not only the prosperity of the company but also the well-being of the people in the region.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Be A Blessing Unto Others web

Be A Blessing Unto Others – Apostle Samuel Obuobi Advises Christians

Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, the General Secretary of The Church Of Pentecost, has advised Christians to not only keep the blessing they have they have received from God to themselves, but more importantly, bless others as well.

This, according to him, is the only way they can make a proud impact on their generation.

Apostle Obuobi said this on Sunday, December 17, 2023, at the Pentecost International Convention Centre (PIWC), Asokwa.

Speaking on the theme: “Maximum Impact”, he began by quoting Kevin Kruse, stating, “Life is about making an impact, not making an income.” He challenged the conventional notion that life is solely about financial success, emphasizing the significance of making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Drawing parallels with the life of Abraham, Apostle Obuobi highlighted God’s objective to bless the entire world through Abraham, as mentioned in Genesis 12:3. He stressed that blessings from God, whether in the form of gifts, knowledge, or talents, are meant not only for personal gain but also to benefit others.

Apostle Obuobi quoted an unknown author, affirming that “Success is not measured in the amount of dollars you make, but the ‘amount’ of lives you impact.” He urged the congregation to recognize that success goes beyond monetary wealth, focusing on the transformative impact individuals can have on the lives of others.

Emphasising the role of the Holy Spirit, Apostle Obuobi explained that believers are empowered to make a difference in the world.

“The agenda of the Holy Ghost is to help us make it to Heaven. Not only is He to help us make it to Heaven, but more so, help us come to a point to make an impact”, he stressed.

He underscored the divine purpose for Christians to impact their generation positively and encouraged them to use the gifts and talents bestowed upon them by God.

The sermon conveyed a call to action, urging believers to leave an indelible mark, bring transformation to their spheres of influence, and positively influence their generation.

The General Secretary reminded Christians of life’s brevity and the importance of making an impact during the time they are alive.

Citing the example of Jesus, who lived only 33 years but profoundly influenced the world, Apostle Obuobi stressed the need for sacrifice to make a lasting impact. He cited Philippians 2:6-8 as an example of the sacrifice Jesus made for humanity.

Concluding, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi challenged Christians to become “salt and light” in the world, emphasizing that the ability to make an impact is directly proportional to the sacrifices one is willing to make.

“Your ability to make an impact depends on the level of sacrifice you make”, he said.

PENTECOST NEWS

Akweteyman Worship Centre Children's Ministry Holds 2nd Edition Of Altar of Praise web

Akweteyman Worship Centre Children’s Ministry Holds 2nd Edition Of “Altar of Praise”

The Akweteyman Worship Centre Children’s Ministry of The  Church of Pentecost has organised the second edition of its annual praise and worship programme dubbed, Altar of Praise.”

The event, which was under the theme: “When Our Praise Goes Up, His Glory Comes Down” (2Chronicles 5:13-14), was held on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at the church’s auditorium. The programme was chaired by the Achimota Area Head, Apostle Joseph Danzerl.

Exhorting the gathering on the event theme, Apotstle Joseph Danzerl said that praise is a key ingredient in living a joyful and content life.

He further noted that the act of praise and worship is a valuable way of instilling the spirit of Pentecostalism the children since it helps them to actively participate in services and inspire them to become part of the  larger family of faith.

Quoting from Matthew 21:16 Apostle Danzerl explained that praising the Lord Jesus with their children provide a beautiful opportunity for parents and guardians to model their faith to them and encourage them  to live a life which pleases God.

He added that the Lord values the innocent, sincerity, and pure heart of children, and therefore, parents and guardians should train them to also walk in the  ways  of God .

Concluding his message, the Achimota Area Head said: “Teaching children to praise The Lord is a precious gift to the church because such training strengthens their faith also  guide them to know God in His excellency.”

In all, 142 children took part in the service. The event also recorded an adult attendance of 76, to the glory of God.

Other distinguished personalities present were Apostle Johnny Lartey Peprah (Resident Minister), Mrs Dorcas Danzerl (Wife of the Achimota Area Head), the gospel music duo, “D’AFRIFA Brothers,” and all District Executive Committee members of the Worship Centre.

Report by Elder Derek Owusu (Achimota Area)

Scholarship Beneficiaries In La Area Grateful To The Church Of Pentecost web

Scholarship Beneficiaries In La Area Grateful To The Church Of Pentecost

Nine individuals who received full scholarships and have completed their various undergraduate programmes at the Pentecost University have expressed gratitude to God and the La Area of The Church of Pentecost for the kind gesture.

Accompanied by their parents, the beneficiaries expressed their profound gratitude to the church.

The La Area Head, Apostle Dr Dieudonne Komla Nuekpe, stated that one of the reasons for helping the beneficiaries is for them to be helpful to the church. 

Apostle Dr Nuekpe, an Executive Council Member of the church, charged the beneficiaries to remain in the church and help with the knowledge acquired. He prayed for lucrative jobs for them.

The beneficiaries studied various Bachelor of Science (BSc.) programmes in Information Technology, Human Resources, Nursing, Marketing, Midwifery and Accounting. 

They are Asare Kingsford (BSc. Information Technology), Andoh Belinda (BSc. Human Ressource), Andoh Linda (BSc. Human Resource), Ankrah Abigail N. A. (BSc. Nursing) and Atiglo Ruby Yaa (BSc. Marketing). 

The rest are Ayerko Nanor Abigail (BSc. Nursing), Bentil Addo Seth (BSc. Information Technology), Duncan Beatrice (BSc. Midwifery) and Parker James Amo (BSc. Accounting).

The scholarship covered all fees and hostel fees throughout their studies.

Report by Overseer Daniel Nana Sei Mensah.

The 2023 Management & Staff Retreat web

The 2023 Management & Staff Retreat: A Magnificent Symphony of Joy and Fraternal Harmony

In the grand tapestry of The Church of Pentecost’s organizational history, marked by my own personal observation and experience from my participation in six previous management and staff retreats since my entry into the organization in 2016, the recently concluded 2023 retreat emerges as an ultimate pièce de résistance, orchestrating an unparalleled crescendo of joy.

This year’s retreat unfolded with a medley of fun-filled moments, nostalgic indoor games, a harmonious carols night session, and probably the most remarkable coup de grâce – a surprise barbecue (kyinkyinga) party that set the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Management’s strategic effort to infuse these moments with mirthful camaraderie was akin to conducting a symphony, harmonizing diverse elements to bring a staff body of diverse backgrounds together.

Against the backdrop of laughter and shared joy, the three prominent figures of the Church; the Chairman, the General Secretary, and the International Missions Director, added a touch of celestial grace to the festivities by honoring staff with the dignity of their presence, making the experience all the more priceless.

Amidst the revelry, a profound truth emerged: it doesn’t take much to elicit smiles and forge connections. Management’s thoughtful orchestration of this year’s retreat served as a gentle reminder that in the realm of organizational harmony, the subtlety of shared joy often speaks louder than grand gestures.

As we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our visionary leaders for this remarkable experience, we cannot help but reflect on the transformative power of such an unprecedented experience. Beyond mere entertainment, the retreat served as a catalyst for fostering a sense of belonging and community among both management and staff.

Indeed, in this ephemeral oasis of joy, even amidst personal sorrow – I, whose mother currently lies cold in the mortuary, awaiting to be sent on her final journey to her maker, momentarily set aside the weight of grief to revel in the collective merriment. Yes, the retreat proved to be a respite from life’s solemn cadence.

As the saying goes in Twi, “Onipa y3 ade3 aa os3 ayeyi”, literally translated to mean “He who does a good deed deserves praise,” Management deserves praise for treating us to such a memorable period of merriment and fraternal harmony.

Written by Elder Emmanuel Frimpong (Executive Assistant, Obuasi Area)

Christian Youth Charged To Sharpen Their Skills web

Christian Youth Charged To Sharpen Their Skills

The Director of The Church of Pentecost Men’s Ministry (PEMEM), Apostle Vincent Anane Denteh, has admonished Christian youth to sharpen themselves and help one another to be relevant in society.

Apostle Anane Denteh said this on Sunday, December 10, 2023, during the climax of the Ladies and Gents’ Wing Week Celebration of the Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA), University of Ghana, Legon.

Speaking on the topic, “Sharpening the Youth for Abundant Living,” with reference from Proverbs 27:17, Apostle Anane Denteh, an Executive Council Member, stressed the need to help one another in sharpening individual skills. 

According to him, it is natural that some old devices become blunt when used for a long time. Such devices are sometimes disposed of if they cannot perform the required task. Every one of us, he said, has sharp areas and blunt areas that need to be sharpened. 

He emphasised the need for Christians to allow themselves to be sharpened because everyone needs to be sharpened. 

He intimated that “sharpness” differs from “smartness” since a smart person does not always play by the rules, but a sharpened person does

To be a complete youth, Apostle Anane Denteh said some areas that are vital for their development include spiritual, physical, social and psychological development.

“Anything we do today is a rehearsal for what will come tomorrow. The Christian youth must be fully prepared for tomorrow since tomorrow is unknown,” he said. 

He, however, said that one cannot change the whole world, “but you have your sphere to influence.”

The PEMEM Director implored the youth to avoid laziness. Referencing Proverbs 10:4 and Proverbs 12:24, he said that a lazy person cannot succeed, but a diligent person will be successful. He further advised them to avoid dwelling on their past or vulnerabilities and move into the future, avoid addictions, bad habits and ideological thinking, which could be political, social or religious.

Present at the meeting were the Resident PENSA Campus Pastor and wife, Pastor Kwadwo Obeng and Mrs Eunice Obeng.

Report by Pastor Kwadwo Obeng

Stress Is Inevitable In Life web

Stress Is Inevitable In Life – Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah Reveals

The Director of the Counselling Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Philip Osei-Korsah, has disclosed that stress is an inevitable part of life, emphasising that effective stress management allows individuals to pursue the divine agenda set by God.

He said this on Thursday when he delivered a paper at the ongoing 2023 Headquarters Management and Staff Retreat of The Church of Pentecost at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, near Kasoa.

Speaking on the topic, “Managing Life’s Issues; Issues of Marriage and Emotional Stress From a Biblical Perspective,” Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah explored the divine wisdom found in Scripture.

Beginning with Genesis 2, the Counselling Director emphasised the divine agenda for humankind, particularly in the institution of marriage.

He highlighted the transparency inherent in the relationship between the first man and woman, stressing the importance of openness and acceptance.

“If we aspire to overcome the challenges in modern marriages, we must adhere to the principle set by the Creator – transparency and acceptance,” he stated.

Drawing parallels between transparency and communication, Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah mentioned that transparency fosters acceptance, leading to effective communication in marriage.

“By acknowledging and accepting each other’s weaknesses, couples pave the way for open communication and understanding,” he added.

Transitioning to the broader theme of emotional stress, Apostle Dr Osei-Korsah acknowledged that stress is inevitable in life.

He delved into the physical, mental, and behavioural aspects of stress, shedding light on its various manifestations, from body aches to changes in eating habits and sexual difficulties.

He advised seeking wisdom from God’s word and saturating one’s life with Scripture to manage emotional stress effectively.

He emphasised the power of gratitude, encouraging individuals to express gratitude for life’s blessings and fostering a positive emotional shift.

Acknowledging the role of relationships, the Counselling Ministry Director urged individuals to avoid isolation and cultivate strong connections with friends and family for support during challenging times.

He emphasised the importance of physical health, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep in managing stress.

He also encouraged trusting God rather than circumstances, reminding believers that God sees and understands each situation.

In conclusion, Apostle Dr Philip Osei-Korsah offered a comprehensive approach to managing life’s challenges, blending biblical principles with practical strategies.

PENTECOST NEWS

Love Never Fails web

Love Never Fails – Pastor James Agyin Assures

The Projects, Development and Estate Manager at The Church of Pentecost Headquarters, Pastor James Orhin Agyin, has advised Christians to try love when hope and faith fail to work in their favour.

He made this assertion on Friday during the 2023 Headquarters Management and Staff Retreat at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, near Kasoa.

Preaching on the topic, “Love, Your Surest Bet For The Years Ahead,” he referred to 1 Corinthians 13:1, 4-8, where the apostle Paul describes love as the greatest of all virtues and contrasts it with faith and hope.

He revealed that God tried faith and hope with humanity but failed to produce the desired results.

According to him, God was disappointed and angry with the wickedness of the human race and almost gave up on them. However, he said, God then tried love, and the result was amazing.

He stressed that love was God’s last card for humanity, saying, “What faith and hope failed to achieve in 4000 years, love did within 33 years.”

Pastor Agyin disclosed that love was the ultimate expression of God’s grace and power. He encouraged the church to try love for the coming years and to see how it would work for them, stressing that love is the surest bet for the years ahead and that the church should embrace it as the ultimate virtue.

“Love never fails; what love cannot do does not exist,” he revealed.

He quoted Philippians 2:9, where the apostle Paul says that God exalted Jesus and gave him the name above every name because of his love and obedience.

“When God relied on love, he saved all,” he remarked.

He cautioned believers of the consequences of hatred, which can affect generations.

PENTECOST NEWS