Don’t Retire Your Spiritual Gifts web

Don’t Retire Your Spiritual Gifts – Apostle Ato-Addison To Retirees

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Apostle Rigwell Ato Addison, a former General Secretary and a retired minister of The Church of Pentecost, has advised ministers and wives on retirement not to let their spiritual gifts lie dormant but to continue exercising their spiritual gifts.

Apostle Addison gave this advice today when he gave a presentation on the topic: “How to Thrive in Retirement” at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) in Millennium City, near Kasoa in the Central Region.

Sharing insights into retirement life, Apostle Addison urged his fellow retired ministers and wives to continue engaging in spiritual disciplines such as morning devotion, reading the Bible, and undertaking special prayer retreats.

He emphasised that retirement does not signify an end to one’s relationship with God; thus, it’s important to maintain an active spiritual life even in retirement.

“In retirement, we are more in the presence of God than in active service,” he stated, adding: “When we do that, the presence of God will always be with you, His spirit will be with you, and all the spiritual benefits are with you. This way, the Lord attends to your prayers.”

Apostle Addison also advised them to be actively involved in the Church’s affairs and to take a keen interest in its growth.

He further noted that being engaged in the Church not only yields spiritual benefits but also physical ones.

He also encouraged them to join retired ministers’ associations within the Church and actively participate in their meetings.

“Remaining idle in retirement will accelerate the ageing process,” he cautioned.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Cultivate A Happy And Healthier Retirement Life web

Cultivate A Happy And Healthier Retirement Life – Apostle Nyamekye Advises

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Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, has offered guidance to retired ministers, ministers’ wives, widows, and widowers within the Church, urging them to embrace a joyful and healthy life during retirement while maintaining a continuous connection with God.

Apostle Nyamekye shared these insights on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, during the 2023 Retirement Seminar hosted at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

Addressing participants on the topic “One Thing I Ask Of The Lord, Two I Desire,” using scriptural references from Psalm 27:4-5, he drew attention to King David’s prayerful aspirations in his later years.

“Even if you’re not preaching as often, you’re still a Christian with a unique wealth of experience from serving in the Lord’s sanctuaries for years,” he assured.

He emphasized that retiring ministers shouldn’t feel their ministry and priesthood have been taken away. Instead, he reminded them of their continuing role as carriers of priestly wisdom, vital for guiding the next generation.

Apostle Nyamekye emphasized that while their earthly journey is ongoing, their priestly role remains.

He urged the participants to stand as intermediaries between God and the people, highlighting the spiritual duty that continues even after retirement. Neglecting this responsibility, he noted, would be considered a sin.

“Harmony leads to happiness; disharmony leads to inner turmoil,” he underscored.

Quoting Psalm 31:7, he explained that it’s not only the heart that suffers but the soul as well. Maintaining a contented and optimistic mindset, he stressed, is crucial for a fulfilling, healthy life.

The Chairman recommended that retirees shield themselves from negativity and instead focus on uplifting words that elevate the spirit.

He highlighted the power of self-affirmation and the importance of positive thinking in nurturing happiness and health.

Apostle Nyamekye encouraged the elderly to shed negativity and maintain a Christ-like attitude, acknowledging that not everyone will be supportive.

He likened life to a stage, and despite stepping out of the limelight, he urged them to continue making their lives meaningful even behind the scenes.

PENTECOST NEWS

Elder Anim-Yirenkyi Applauded For 31-Year Service At Pension Office web

Elder Anim-Yirenkyi Applauded For 31-Year Service At Pension Office

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Elder Ebenezer Anim-Yirenkyi, Principal Finance Officer at the Pension Office of The Church of Pentecost, received a standing ovation from participants of this year’s Retirement Seminar in recognition of his dedicated service to the Church for over three decades. Elder Anim-Yirenkyi retires from his role this year, having served God and the Church in this capacity for 31 years.

Apostle David Amankwaa, a member of the Pension Board of the Church, eulogised the retiring officer on Day 2 of the Retirement Seminar currently underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Millennium City, near Kasoa in the Central Region.

He commended Elder Anim-Yirenkyi for playing a pioneering role in the establishment of the office and led the retired ministers, wives, and widows present to applaud him for his service.

Speaking with PENTECOST NEWS on the sidelines of the event, Elder Anim Yirenkyi said, “I feel very honoured by the gesture. But more importantly, looking back on how far the Pension Office has come, I feel very fulfilled. When I look at the fund we were managing at the time and how far we have come, I give glory to God. But all I can say is, I feel very fulfilled.”

The Pension Office was set up 31 years ago by the Church to see to the welfare of retired ministers, ministers’ wives, widows, and children of ministers who pass on in active ministry.

The office is overseen by the Pension Board, which is constitutionally mandated, among others, to manage the Pentecost Ministers’ Welfare Fund and also organise programmes for retired ministers and wives with approval from the Executive Council.

The Board is chaired by Apostle John Appiah Aidoo (Abuakwa Area Head), and has Apostle Lawrence Otu-Nyarko, Apostle David Amankwaa, Pastor Issa-Gustav Abubakar (Secretary), Elder Emmanuel Anane Boate, Elder Lawyer Kweku Agyei Gyamfi, Elder Nathan Kwaffo, Elder Benjamin Enoch Donkor, and Elder Lawrence Adu Kusi, as members.

The Pension Office, which began with less than 10 retired ministers of the Church, now takes care of over 500 retired ministers, wives, and widows. Presently, the office is sponsoring 49 children of ministers who passed on in active service through their education.

Over 500 ministers and widows are currently participating in this year’s retirement seminar. Speakers of the event include Apostle Eric Nyamekye (Chairman of The Church of Pentecost), Apostle Rigwell Ato Addison (Rtd.), Apostle Dr. Alfred Koduah (Rtd.), Apostle Prof. Peter Ohene Kyei (Rtd.), Apostle Dr. Philip Osei-Korsah, Elder Dr. Ken Aboah, Elder Lawyer Adu Gyamfi, and Elder Kofi Owusu.

Some of the special side attractions introduced in this year’s conference include indoor games, cardiovascular exercises, and old Pentecostal tunes.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Christian Service Does Not End In Retirement web

Christian Service Does Not End In Retirement – Retired Ministers Told

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Mrs. Grace Amoah Baffour, a retired minister’s wife of The Church of Pentecost, has called on the Church’s retired ministers and wives to continue to serve God and the Church even in retirement.

Mrs. Baffour said this on Thursday, August 10, 2023, when she exhorted participants of the ongoing Retirement Seminar at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Millenium City, near Kasoa.

Preaching on the topic: “Repositioning the Local Church for Maximum Impact Role of a Retired Minister,” with 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20, Mrs. Baffour emphasised the instrumental role that ministers and their spouses play in the growth of the Church. She said that, like Apostle Paul, the crown of their labor in the Lord’s vineyard is to see succeeding generations holding fast to the faith that they entrusted to them.

According to her, ministerial service does not necessarily end in retirement, as there is still the opportunity for them to serve God beyond active service.

She cited Anna, who, even at the ripe age of 80, continued to serve in God’s house through prayer and fasting. “Likewise, we can also continue to intercede for the Church while in retirement,” she said.

Reading Psalm 27:4, she explained that although David was not the one to build the Lord’s temple, he contributed his part by providing the materials needed for its completion.

“As retired ministers, we can also encourage those in active service with the word of God, pray for the Church, and take an active part in the church activities,” she said, stressing that: “Our retirement is only physical because we our spirit is not retired.”

She also advised them not to fold their arms unconcerned but to be interested in everything that goes on in the Church. “We should not look down on ourselves and say we are now ‘backbenchers’ because even sometimes, substitutes come on and score goals,” she said.

PENTECOST NEWS.

PIWC-Ho Organises Orientation, Prayers For BECE Candidates web

PIWC-Ho Organises Orientation, Prayers For BECE Candidates

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The Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) in Ho has organised a preparation seminar for Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates in the church. 

Speaking at the event, which took place on Saturday, August 5, 2023, in the church’s auditorium at Mawuli Estate in Ho, Mr Joseph Mawuena, a Chief Examiner and the Regional Vice-Chairman of the Scripture Union took the candidates through the ‘dos and don’ts’ before, during and after the examination.

Quoting 2 Timothy 1: 7 and Isaiah 47: 10, Mr Mawuena asked the candidates, numbering about 60, to be confident, bold and not afraid.

He advised them to desist from learning deep into the night and refrain from engaging in any substances or drugs in their efforts to study.

“Prepare yourselves psychologically, spiritually and physically. Go early and know your sitting place and have the search by invigilators,” he said, adding, “Search yourselves first and be sure of having no unwanted items.”

Mr Joseph Mawuena asked the candidates to “own the answer booklet by writing how your name is registered for the exams. Write your index number and the name of the paper.”

He further advised them to read the instructions carefully and be conversant with the rubrics, saying, “It is necessary to write your index number; know it off head. Subject yourself to the instructions and pass well. Read through the questions and make your selections. Answer your questions in the order you can easily tackle. A fresh question must be started on a fresh page.” 

He asked the candidates to comport themselves and not be in a hurry to go out after they had finished answering the questions.

The Presiding Elder, Albert Abakah-Yawson, assured the candidates of the provisions of God in the examination.

The Resident Minister, Pastor David Francis Akayue, and Pastor Isaac Aboagye of Godokpe District took the candidates through a prayer session.

The church presented pens, pencils and other souvenirs to the candidates.

Report by Enyonam Dormevenu, Ho.

Church Builders On Sunday; Nation Wreckers On Weekdays web

Church Builders On Sunday; Nation Wreckers On Weekdays

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In the last five years, The Church of Pentecost, under the leadership of Apostle Eric Nyamekye, has dedicated herself to the vision of influencing the public sphere with Kingdom values and principles as part of the “Possessing the Nations” agenda. This initiative aims to steer the country towards a path of progress and prosperity, leveraging values that combat bribery, corruption, theft, armed robbery, and other societal vices. However, within the Christian community, there appears to be scepticism that casts a shadow over this agenda and vision.

A well-known Ghanaian songwriter once remarked in one of his songs that “Part-Time Christians are fighting a full-time devil,” suggesting that Christians only display righteousness in the church and act the opposite in the public space. This perspective resonates with the songwriter’s observation of the lifestyles of Christians in his context.

Ghana boasts a Christian majority, with numerous employees in the country’s public institutions identifying as Christians. While the church in Ghana experiences commendable growth, the state institutions are encountering rapid deterioration. Surprisingly, many of these public servants are active church leaders who contribute significantly to the church’s expansion.

Hence, the question arises: “Why are the very individuals building the church seemingly causing the downfall of public institutions?”

This is partly because, in the eyes of the Ghanaian, all endeavours connected to the church are perceived as God’s work, demanding devotion and sacrifices. But where does this perspective leave the public offices they hold and the nation they serve? While they dedicate themselves diligently to the church, their commitment to the government and state establishments appears lacklustre. Instead, public officeholders prioritise personal gains over the welfare of the institutions they work in. This prompts the query: Could it be that some of these leaders merely assume the role of churchgoers on Sundays, only to transform into thieves and robbers from Monday to Saturday? This contradiction is disheartening, especially when contrasted with the Biblical teaching to “do everything as if working for God.”

In my view, Christianity parallels military service, where the adage “once a soldier, always a soldier” rings true. Similarly, a church leader or a Christian should embody their faith from Sunday to Sunday, regardless of the circumstances, be it within the church auditorium, on the streets, or at the workplace. If one has embraced Christ as Lord and Saviour, then they ought to dedicate their lives to Him. Consequently, every action—whether mundane tasks, strolls, or professional duties—should radiate Christ’s teachings. Christians must internalise the belief that all their endeavours, whether for individuals, private enterprises, institutions, government, or the nation at large, are a testament to their service to God.

Hence, if one occupies a governmental role and withholds funds earmarked for school construction, thereby indirectly driving someone to resort to armed robbery due to lack of educational opportunities, it can be argued that they bear a share of responsibility for that criminal activity.

As such, let us reevaluate our conduct and commit to serving the Lord not solely within the church’s walls but also within the realm of public service.

Written by Oheneba Nyarko

2023 Retirement Seminar Underway web

2023 Retirement Seminar Underway

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The 2023 Retirement Seminar, an annual event for retired ministers and their wives, widows, and widowers within The Church of Pentecost, has commenced at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, near Kasoa.

Organised by the Pension Board of The Church of Pentecost, the seminar began on Tuesday. It will end on Thursday, August 10, 2023, focusing on the theme, “Repositioning the Local Church: The Role of the Retired Minister,” based on 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20 and Psalm 92:12-14.

The speakers for the seminar include Apostle Eric Nyamekye (Chairman), Apostle John Appiah Aidoo (Chairman, Pension Board), Apostle Dr Philip Osei Korsah (Director, Counselling Ministry), Apostle Rigwell Ato Addison (Rtd) – Trustee & Former General Secretary of the church, Apostle Dr Alfred Koduah (Rtd) – former General Secretary, and Apostle Prof. Peter Ohene-Kyei (Rtd) – former Rector of Pentecost University.

Others are Elder Lawyer Kwaku Agyei Gyamfi (Member of the Pension Board & Legal Advisor to the church), Elder Kofi Owusu (Dietician), Elder Paul Kofi Mante (MD, Ecobank EDC), and Elder Dr Kwabena Boamah (MD, Stanbic Investment Management).

The speakers will cover a wide range of topics, including the Ministers’ Welfare Fund Policy, Willing Process and Procedure, Interstate Succession Law, Emotional Health in Retirement (including aspects like Empty Nest Syndrome and Loneliness), Ageing and Associated Health Concerns, Diet and Exercise in Old Age, Staying Socially Connected During Retirement, Continuing Ministry in Retirement, Investment Insights, and Sharing Life Experiences in Retirement/Thriving in Retirement.

In his welcome address, Apostle John Appiah Aidoo, the Chairman of the Pension Board, highlighted the performance of the 2022 Pentecost Ministers’ Welfare Fund.

“As of December 2022, the total number of retirees and spouses in the church stood at 278, with an additional 141 widows,” he said.

He noted that 26 ministers and their wives were added to the list after retiring this year. He stressed that the fund supports 49 ministers’ children under the scheme.

Highlighting the significance of the seminar’s theme, Apostle Aidoo emphasised the crucial role retired ministers and their partners play as pioneers and spiritual guards within the church.

The Chairman of the church, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, urged the participants to seek the Lord’s presence for their health and happiness, acknowledging that old age is a blessing that comes with its unique challenges, including loneliness.

“Old age is a blessing, but all things being equal, ageing also means closer to the grave; it means loneliness for most people,” he stated, adding, “The utmost desire and hope is for health and happiness.”

He prayed that their spirits would be strong in the Lord, their souls filled with fortune and their bodies be strong.

The seminar is attended by about 500 participants and virtually for remote participation.

PENTECOST NEWS

Waiting Room The Hindsight Of Patience & Trust web

Waiting Room: The Hindsight Of Patience & Trust

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Many times, we find ourselves pondering when the “heavenly secretary” will swing open the door and announce that the Master is ready to attend to us, inviting us to enter. But until that moment arrives, we can only sit and wait.

A “waiting room” is a designated space where individuals await their turn to be attended to. Its primary purpose is to provide clients with a convenient and comfortable place to relax while anticipating their moment. Similarly, the waiting room of the Lord illustrates the profound patience required to rely on God’s timetable and divine plan for our lives.

The scriptures furnish us with numerous passages meant to instruct and guide those who find themselves in the waiting room of life. These passages serve as reminders of the virtues of patience, trust, and faith in the face of life’s delays. The story of Abram stands as a narrative example of patiently enduring the wait for the fulfilment of God’s promises. Despite his advanced age and Sarah’s infertility, Abraham unwaveringly trusted in God’s faithfulness. After the passage of time, he finally became the father of Isaac, affirming the word of God in Romans 8:18: “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (NIV).

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV).  This scripture from Proverbs serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of entrusting ourselves to God’s wisdom and guidance. It advises us to relinquish our limited understanding and wholeheartedly rely on God, trusting that our paths are being directed according to His perfect timing.

Attempting to predict when the waiting will conclude can lead to substantial disappointment, as the waiting room of the Lord defies prediction. It may yield results soon or perhaps later. “But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.” – Romans 8:25 (NIV). This verse from Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans underscores the significance of patience while dwelling in the waiting room of the Lord. It encourages us to persevere in our waiting, even when the manifestation of God’s promises remains elusive because we maintain hope and belief in His eventual fulfillment of His plans in His own time.

Mobile phones have become an integral part of our lives. These devices require charging before they can be used, and during the charging process, we wait patiently, assured that the phone will eventually be fully charged. Some individuals might opt to use their devices while they are charging, which prolongs the charging time (reflecting impatience in the waiting room). In contrast, others choose to wait patiently until the battery reaches its full capacity before utilising it. The waiting room of the Lord is not an easy space to inhabit, yet it holds rewards for those who endure the wait with patience. It doesn’t weaken us; rather, it empowers the weak and bestows strength upon the weary. “But they who wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31 (KJV).

The Waiting Room of the Lord enjoins us, as children of God, to cultivate patience, trust, and faith. The scriptures mentioned above serve as reminders of the eventual glory that awaits us after our sojourn in the waiting room of the Lord. “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end, it shall speak and not lie: though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” – Habakkuk 2:3 (KJV).

May this piece serve as a wellspring of inspiration and encouragement to those who, like you, await patiently in the waiting room, steadfastly believing in and trusting the unfolding plans of God in His perfect timing.

Written by Elizabeth Asamoah (Anum District, Ho Area)

Thomas Nyarko Worship Centre Gets New Mission House web

Thomas Nyarko Worship Centre Gets New Mission House

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The newly-constructed Mission House of the Thomas Nyarko Worship Centre in the Teshie-Nungua Area of The Church of Pentecost was dedicated on Sunday, August 6, 2023.

The service was officiated by the Area Head, Apostle Wilberforce Nkrumah- Agyeman, with assistance from the outgoing Resident Minister for Thomas Nyarko Worship Centre, Overseer Emmanuel Marfo.

Apostle Nkrumah-Agyeman commended the leadership of Thomas Nyarko Worship Centre for putting up the beautiful edifice to serve as a permanent place of residence for their Resident Minister.

Preaching on the topic “Repositioned to Stand Firm,” Apostle Wilberforce Nkrumah- Agyeman quoted various Bible texts including Matthew 7:24-27, 2 Kings 2:19-22 and Psalm 11:3 and explained that the builders in Jesus’ parable in Matthew 7:24-27 put up both buildings under similar circumstances and were faced with the same storm. However, it was the one whose foundation was on the rock that could withstand the raging storm.

He said that Christians are not immune to challenges and troubles of life because God has not promised a problem free Christianity.

He continued that the rain in the passage represents a short succession of trials while the flood represents a prolonged season of trials that becomes overwhelming.

He reiterated that all these trials come as a test, to test the faith of believers in Jesus Christ.

“It is only when Christians are deeply rooted in Jesus Christ and in His word, that they will be able to overcome every trial that comes their way,” he said adding, “As Christians, Jesus is our anchor and we must be firmly grounded in Him by abiding in His word because Jesus Christ is our sure foundation.”

Christians, according to him, should remain steadfast in the Lord when trials and tribulations come because the God of all grace will Himself restore them and make them strong, firm and steadfast, quoting from 1 Peter 5:10.

Apostle Nkrumah-Agyeman commended Elder Alfred Quainoo, a building contractor from the Tebibianor District of the Teshie-Nungua Area, who in short time was able to put up the ultra-modern Mission house.

Pastor Marfo expressed gratitude, on behalf of the Worship Centre, to the leadership of The Church of Pentecost and the Area for their invaluable support.

Report by Pastor Bernard T. Kofie

PENCO-La Area Declares 10% Dividend, Launches Kiddie Savings Account web

PENCO-La Area Declares 10% Dividend, Launches Kiddie Savings Account

by with No Comment Church NewsPENTSOSTop Stories

The President of Pentecost Co-operative Mutual Support and Social Services Society Limited (PENCO) of the La Area of The Church of Pentecost, Elder Prof. Raymond Dziwornu, has said that the Society continues to play a significant role in providing affordable financial products to improve the lives of its customers, after declaring a dividend of 10% on shareholders’ share value.

Elder Prof. Dziwornu revealed that the Society made a surplus of GHS 179,642.18 for the year 2022 and had a total asset of GHS 5,367,655.87 with a total membership of 5,102 as of December 31, 2022, representing about 7.23% increase over 2021 membership. He said the Society projects to increase its total assets to GHS6,000,000 and increase customer deposits by 15%.

Elder Prof. Dziwornu disclosed this at the Sixth Annual General Meeting (AGM) of PENCO-La Area held on Sunday, July 16, July 16, 2023, at Dr Thomas Wyatt Temple.

As part of the AGM, the Society launched an innovative product for children dubbed “Kiddie Savings Account.” Elder Prof. Dziwornu hinted that the new product is a medium to encourage children to save and instil savings habits in them, saying, “Children have the potential to save.” 

The President indicated that the account is available to children between the ages of one and eighteen. However, parents will hold the account in trust for their children until they turn 18. He urged parents to take advantage of the new initiative and open accounts for their children to help build their children’s savings habits.

Elder Prof. Dziwornu announced that PENCO-La Area will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024, and various activities have been earmarked for the celebration.

The meeting was also used to confirm the appointment of two board members to the offices of Vice President and Secretary, respectively. Her Ladyship Deaconess Barbara Tetteh Charway assumed the office of Vice President, while Elder Eric Padi Nyabey took the office of Secretary to the Board.

The Directors’ report, which Deaconess Dr Cynthia Addoquaye Tagoe read, indicated that “the Society, against all odds, made some substantial financial gains on which premises the board of directors propose to declare a dividend of 10% on shareholders’ share value. In all, a total of GHS 44,847.40 is to be paid as dividend to shareholders.” 

Elder Martin Obodai Atter officially declared the 10% dividend and was approved by members.

In a fraternal statement, the La Area Head, Apostle Dr Dieudonne Komla Nuekpe, encouraged the Society to keep up the good works for a better tomorrow. 

Awards were presented to some hardworking customers and the best-performing Local Assembly.

In his closing remarks, the President expressed the Board’s appreciation to the management, Loans and Supervisory Committee Members, Local Representatives and all shareholders and customers for their immense support for the Society’s activities. 

In attendance were officials from the Department of Co-operatives, La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) and PENCO APEX.

Report by Gina Akua Padi.