Transformers Conference 2024 Opens In Grand Style web

Transformers Conference 2024 Opens In Grand Style

The highly anticipated PENSA Ghana Conference 2024 kicked off its opening session with a powerful message of empowerment and transformation for young people across the country and beyond by the General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi.

The PENSA Ghana Conference is an annual national mega-gathering of all youth in the Church of Pentecost, Ghana and beyond.

This year’s edition, dubbed the Transformers Conference, began yesterday, January 2, 2023, and is expected to end on Friday, January 5, 2023, under the theme, “Young People Unleashed to Transform their World” (1 Peter 2:9; Acts 1:8).

The Transformers Conference has drawn a large number of youth in the Church eager to participate from three different centres: the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) in Gomoa Fetteh, KNUST in Kumasi, and UDS in Tamale.

In his opening address, the PENSA Ghana Coordinator, Elder Samuel Boahene, warmly welcomed the participants, ministers and distinguished guests.

Highlighting the significance of a PENSA Ghana Conference and its relevance in today’s context, he emphasised the importance of the Transformers Conference in achieving the vision of the second phase of the Possessing the Nations Agenda.

“There is a time when the youth need to arise and answer numerous questions. It is a time when the youth need to arise and make their presence felt. The time is now,” exclaimed Elder Boahene.

He further registered his sincerest appreciation to the Chairman of the Church and the leaders for their massive support and guidance in achieving this remarkable feat.

Take advantage of the unique opportunity to seek a personal encounter with the Lord. Draw strength and virtue, and share fellowship with participants drawn at the 3 locations in the country. Build a professional network. Leave this conference holistically empowered,” he advised.

The Youth Ministry Director of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Ebenezer Hagan, revealed that the conference is at the heart of the Chairman and the leaders of the church.

“The leadership took 50% of the actual registration fees,” he revealed.

He extended appreciation to the Area Heads, District Pastors and Youth leaders for taking the initiative to support the youth.

The conference means a lot to the Lord, who is the owner of the church, and also to the Chairman, who is the vision-bearer. It is also happening when the church of Pentecost has decided to prioritise the ministry of young people. We intend to reach everyone for Jesus”, he noted.

As part of the initiatives for the Youth Ministry’s Vision 2028, “Grounded in Christ, Reaching Everyone and Taking Everywhere for Christ”, the Apostle Hagan noted that the Professional Guilds will be launched to train young people to win their various fields of profession and take them for Christ.

He then gave a Clarion call to every youth to rise to the task and be challenged to take everywhere for God. He finally acknowledged participants joining from Nigeria, Togo, and other countries.

The former Youth Patron, Apostle Samuel Osei Asante, also the Area Head for Kaneshie, gave his opening remarks.

In his address, he made a profound statement that “For the youth to transform their world, they must be transformed first, hence, the need for the Transformers Conference.

“It is a conference for people who are transformers – a people ready for a change. You are to change society. It is possible. As young people, we are being unleashed to transform our world, and that is the burden on our hearts. If you can go out and transform others, you will be transformed. Take a decision. Be transformed”, he stressed.

The main speaker for the day, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, the General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, delivered an insightful exposition on the theme.

Drawing references from the theme scriptures, he spoke about the critical role of Christians in the Great Commission, calling for active engagement and commitment.

He emphasised that the Church is a container of the power of God, which is immeasurable, unlimited and surpassing; as such, the world must experience that power.

The opening session also featured uplifting ministrations from the PENSA Ghana Choir, adding a vibrant dimension to the event.

The PENSA Ghana Conference 2024 promises to be a landmark event, setting the stage for a transformative journey for young Pentecostals.

With a lineup of influential speakers, engaging sessions, and spiritual activities, the conference is poised to significantly impact the lives of many young people, empowering them to transform their world.

Report by Pensa Ghana Secretariat Team.

Couple Welcomes Quadruplets After 24 Years Of Childlessness web

Couple Welcomes Quadruplets After 24 Years Of Childlessness

Elder Godfred Kwame Asamoah Agyemang and his wife, Deaconess Louisa, of the Sunyani Central District of The Church of Pentecost, have joyfully welcomed quadruplets after patiently waiting and relying on God for the fruit of the womb for 24 years.

God graciously gave them three girls and a boy, namely Godfred Asamoah Agyemang Jnr (Adom), Ann Anima Asamoah Agyemang (Akyede), Maria Oduro Asamoah Agyemang (Ayeyi) and Louisa Pokuaa Asamoah Agyemang (Nhyira).

The naming and dedication ceremony for the quadruplets, which took place on Sunday, December 17, 2024, was officiated by Apostle James Gabriel Quardson (Sunyani Area Head), Apostle Robert Andoh (Essam Debiso Area Head), Apostle James Nana Ofori (Rtd), Pastor Stephen Dankyi Asante (Sunyani Central District Minister), and other ministers in Sunyani Area. 

Other dignitaries who graced the service were Odeneho Akosua Frema Dwabeng Ababio II (Queen of Domaa Ahenkro Traditional Area), Chiefs and other Queens in Sunyani and Domaa Ahenkro and Heads of Security Agencies.  

Elder Agyemang and his wife, Deaconess Louisa, got married on March 14, 1999, in Sunyani. Pastor Frederick Kweku Andoh, the then Sunyani District Minister, now Apostle and Area Head for Assin Fosu, officiated their wedding.

The couple, in an interview with Pentecost News, revealed they went through several miscarriages and sought medical attention and advice from gynaecologists and other specialists for 23 years but to no avail.

“We have faced numerous challenges, especially being a presiding elder who officiates naming service in the absence of my district pastor. Our situation sometimes discouraged and restrained my wife from attending church activities.

“We have suffered during this period of childlessness, but we never denied our faith in God,” Elder Agyemang said joyfully.

He, however, said they continued praying, believing God for a miracle, and his wife miraculously conceived in November 2022. 

“Our story looks similar to that of Abraham and Sara when God promised him at age 75 to be the father of many nations—but had to wait for 25 years before Sara conceived Isaac, their beloved son,” he said.

Elder Godfred Agyemang, popularly known as ‘ELLENGOZ,’ meaning “Evidence of God’s Glory,” described the societal pressure and stigmatisation as suicidal, emphasising the vital role their faith in God played in seeing them through their predicaments and cited Psalm 9:10, Romans 8:28 and Issaiah 1:21.

He encouraged couples not to be desperate for children during marriage but to understand that it is part of the benefit of marriage and always trust that God can do everything. 

Elder and Deaconess Asamoah Agyemang expressed their profound gratitude to all ministers, officers, members and everyone who supported them in prayers.

Giving the sermon at the naming ceremony, Apostle James Gabriel Quardson encouraged couples to remain righteous before God and be patient to wait and desist from behaviours that will resist God’s glory upon their lives. 

He further emphasised that God makes everything beautiful and perfect for those who wait on him faithfully. 

Report by Collins Obeng K. Jnr, Sunyani.

God is with us web

God Is With Us – General Secretary Assures Christians

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, has encouraged Christians not to entertain any fear in the New Year because Jesus Christ, having been given all power on earth and from on high, will be with them always, even until the end of the world.

The General Secretary said this at the Osu Central Assembly when he delivered a sermon titled “The God Who Is With You”  during the recently-held 31st Watchnight Service on the eve of the New Year.

Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi’s message  centered around the profound promise embedded in Matthew 28:18-20.

Reflecting on the significance of this promise, the General Secretary emphasised that it aligns seamlessly with the name Immanuel, meaning “God With Us.”

“Our Jesus Christ is always with us, and He will continue to be with us in the New Year,” he declared.

Drawing from scriptures such as Isaiah 43:2, Jeremiah 1:19, and Psalm 23:4, he underscored the unwavering presence of God in times of trouble and reassured believers that no challenge, enemy, or fear is insurmountable when one embraces the assurance that God is with them.

Apostle Obuobi highlighted the omnipotent nature of God, emphasizing that His power is not derived but is the ultimate source. “The God who is with you is the omnipotent God,” he affirmed, encouraging believers to walk in faith, confident that they have an omnipotent God by their side.

He further expounded on the omniscience and omnipresence of God, emphasizing the comforting truth that God knows everything and is everywhere.

A central theme of the message was the call for believers to accept and believe that God is with them, irrespective of their life circumstances. “It doesn’t matter your position in life; the believer must believe and accept that ‘God is with me,'” Apostle Gyau Obuobi declared.

He emphasised that this belief is not contingent on feelings or external validations, urging believers to stand firm in their faith.

In addressing the inevitability of troubles, the sermon cited the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, illustrating that even in the midst of adversity, God remains present with His people.

He concluded with a passionate call to believers to walk in boldness and confidence, referencing the story of Joseph in Genesis 39:21-23 as an example of divine grace and favour bestowed upon one who acknowledges and believes in the constant presence of God.

“When God is with you, do not fear. Know the God you are with. He who knows the God he serves walks in boldness and confidence,” he said.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Oduman District Holds Couples' Dinner web

Oduman District Holds Couples’ Dinner

The Oduman District of The Church of Pentecost has held a dinner for couples in the district to spice up their marriages.

The colourful event, which took place on Boxing Day [Tuesday, December 26, 2023] at Oduman Guest House, brought couples together to interact and learn more about marriage. 

In a short address, the District Minister, Pastor Solomon Azagisiya, said marriage is like a school one attends, saying, “You keep learning as the days and years go by. It is, therefore, necessary to meet from time to time as couples to interact with one another and learn from our experiences. 

Pastor Azagisiya advised couples to keep working on their marriages and solve their problems themselves. However, he implored them not to hesitate to seek counsel from marriage counsellors or ministers of the gospel when the challenges were beyond them. 

To help renew their love and strengthen their marriages, he advised couples to go out occasionally to release some stress. 

Some of the activities at the dinner included ‘pick and act,’ ‘how well do you know your partner,’ ‘couples’ dance,’ and ‘couple’s interview and dining.’ These activities made couples discover things they need to do in their marriages, how to handle difficulties in marriage, and the things that make their partners happy.

Some couples shared their marriage experiences. 

As stated in Ephesians 5:22-26, wives were advised to be submissive and husbands loving in order to keep their marriages healthier and happy. They were also advised not to deny each other sex, which is a critical aspect of marriage.

The dinner was attended by both members of The Church of Pentecost and non-members. 

The participants appreciated the organisers of the programme and called for another one to be organised next year. 

Report by Oduman District Media Team

WHY PENSA-GHANA CONFERENCE web

Why PENSA-Ghana Conference?

In a world where Christianity grapples with other religions for the salvation of souls and the holistic development of youth, PENSA conferences play a pivotal role, particularly within The Church of Pentecost. The upcoming PENSA (Pentecost Students and Associates) Ghana conference is an event that students and Christian youth across Ghana and nearby African countries should prioritise attending.

The PENSA Ghana Conference stands as a crucial gathering for Pentecostal students and young adults across Ghana. These conferences offer abundant opportunities for faith enrichment, leadership development, academic growth, and the fostering of community ties among the next generation of Pentecostal church members. The pressing question is: Why should I, as a young adult, attend the PENSA Ghana Conference?

The conference delivers spiritually enriching messages, teachings, seminars, and workshops designed to nurture the Christian faith and Pentecostal beliefs of attendees or participants. Through this event, the youth become immersed in the doctrines of The Church of Pentecost and the core values of the church. Attendees gain exposure to impactful and seasoned speakers (devotional speakers), engaging worship sessions, and insightful Bible teachings and discussions.

Furthermore, Leadership Development stands out as a key essence that should draw every youth to this conference. The event motivates participants, especially students, to discover and strengthen their gifts and talents, empowering them to become effective student leaders within the spiritual environment. Leadership training sessions equip participants with skills and best practices for leading ministries, groups, students, organising community outreaches, and supporting the growth of the church, especially in local churches in rural areas.

Moreover, the conference provides a platform for seasoned Pentecostal ministers and church leaders to attend, connecting with and providing guidance and mentorship to students and young adults on their spiritual journeys. They offer insights into handling real-world challenges with biblical principles, addressing academic issues, overcoming relationship challenges, and navigating purpose-driven career paths.

One of the most interesting and pivotal aspects the conference offers is the opportunity for young adults and students (tertiary students) to network and connect with others. Participants expand their networks by interacting with like-minded Pentecostal students and young adults from across Ghana and tertiary institutions. This networking can lead to invaluable friendships, and in some cases, marriages, as shared by past participants and ministers of The Church who met their life-long partners through the conference. Additionally, these connections can lead to ministry collaborations, career opportunities, and other mutually beneficial relationships within Pentecostal circles.

Beloved students in tertiary institutions, young adults, and members of The Church of Pentecost, considering the numerous benefits of attending the PENSA Ghana conference, I extend a warm invitation to the 2024 edition of the PENSA Ghana Conference. The event will take place from January 2nd to 5th at three centres, namely Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, KNUST, and UDS-Tamale.

Written by Quaicoe Dennis (Editor Librarian, PENSA-Pentecost University)

Techiman Area Pastorate Celebrates Their Wives web

Techiman Area Pastorate Celebrates Their Wives

Ministers in the Techiman Area of The Church of Pentecost organized a special surprise get-together event to honor their wives and appreciate them for their tremendous support in the work of ministry.

The event, held on Thursday, December 28, 2023, as part of the Christmas festivities, was initiated by the Area Head, Apostle Isaac Nii Kotei Djani, who also serves as an Executive Council Member of the Church.

Determined to give their spouses a special treat, the ministers relieved them of their “kitchen roles” and took up cooking responsibilities by preparing various sumptuous meals, such as fufu, fried rice, Jollof rice, “Apreprensa,” and “Ɛtɔ,” for their better halves.

The event took place at the Techiman Area Mission House and featured intriguing moments of games, including Oware, Ludo, Cards, and Draft.

As part of the event, the ministers presented a love message to the ministers’ wives to acknowledge the significant role they play in their lives.

Some portions of the message read, “You are our shock absorbers; you soak every pressure and get us going!” and “God and good wives are the most important needs to us. Thank you, our wives.”

Climaxing it all, each minister presented a surprise envelope containing an undisclosed cash amount to their wife as a way of expressing gratitude to them.

The pastorate was very grateful to Apostle Isaac Nii Kotei Djani for conceiving this vision and helping to make it a reality.

Present at the event were Mrs. Mary Kotei Djani (Wife of the Area Head), Elder Appiah Agyarko (Area Deacon), and Deaconess Florence Ankomah (Area Women’s Ministry Leader).

Report by Techiman Area Media Team

REDISCOVERING GHANAIAN GOSPEL SONGS web

Rediscovering Ghanaian Gospel Songs: Reflections From Afua Asantewaa’s Singathon

In a world that venerates achievements and applauds record-breaking feats, Afua Asantewaa emerges as a paragon of determination and focus, striving to break the Guinness World Record for the longest vocal performance. As I tuned in to my TV on December 26th, 2023, to witness this extraordinary endeavour, I found myself contemplating the profound beauty of Ghanaian culture, particularly within the realm of gospel music.

Afua Asantewaa’s Singathon not only showcased her extraordinary vocal abilities but also served as a jubilant celebration of Ghanaian musical heritage. The presence of Ghana’s Vice President, His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and the enthusiastic support from various celebrities, particularly musicians, underscored the unity and pride that Ghanaians feel for their cultural identity.

Yet, as a Christian and an avid lover of gospel music, a subtle absence caught my attention — where were our gospel songs in this grand musical journey?

While Afua masterfully sang an array of Ghanaian songs, the gospel genre seemed to recede after the initial stages of her performance. This prompts a pivotal question: Why aren’t our beloved gospel songs taking center stage on such significant platforms?

Let’s delve into the heart of the matter. Ghana boasts a rich musical heritage, replete with an abundance of beautiful songs and melodies. The fusion of African beats and imported tunes in Afua’s Singathon vividly displayed the diversity and vibrancy of Ghanaian music. However, the gospel genre, an integral part of our musical identity, appeared to fade into the background.

For Christians, gospel music is a source of solace, inspiration, and joy, serving as a powerful tool for worship, reflection, and connection with our faith. Therefore, the apparent scarcity of gospel songs in such a momentous event raises crucial questions about the current state of gospel music in Ghana.

Is it a matter of insufficient production of gospel songs, or are our talented gospel musicians not releasing enough material? Afua Asantewaa’s performance suggests that she diligently learned the available songs, so where are the albums and compositions that should be resonating through the airwaves?

This piece aims to ignite a conversation about the status of Ghanaian gospel music, encouraging introspection within our musical community. It is an opportunity for gospel musicians to step into the limelight and showcase the wealth of beautiful compositions that can resonate with both the youth and older generations.

From a biblical perspective, music has always played a pivotal role in worship and expressing the joy of faith. The Psalms, for instance, are a testament to the power of music in connecting with God. In Psalm 150:4 (NIV), it states, “Praise him with tambourine and dancing; praise him with the strings and pipe.” This illustrates that diverse musical expressions, including gospel, have a place in worship and celebration.

In conclusion, Afua Asantewaa’s Singathon issues a call to action for the Ghanaian gospel music community. Let us not only cherish the diverse musical landscape that Ghana offers but also ensure that our gospel songs rightfully claim their place on the world stage. Through collaboration, production, and promotion, we can rekindle the flame of our gospel music, ensuring that it continues to inspire and uplift the hearts of all who listen.

Written by Daniel Kwabena Mantey (TV Anchor, Pent TV)

Pokukrom District Holds 6th Football Gala web

Pokukrom District Holds 6th Football Gala

The Pokukrom District in the Duayaw Nkwanta Area of The Church of Pentecost has organised a football gala for 16 local assemblies of the church in the district.

The 6th annual football competition took place from Wednesday, 27th to Thursday, 28th December 2023, at Amangoase football field.

At the end of the competition, Amangoase local assembly emerged as the winner, taking home the ultimate prize, while Nyamebekyere and Mmofra assemblies grabbed the second and third positions, respectively.

The District Minister, Pastor Isaac Kwabena Twumasi Ankrah, and his District Executive Committee Members presented the prizes of medals and the trophy to the winners.

Pastor Twumasi Ankrah thanked God for a successful event. He also commended the Area Head, Prophet Fred Antwi, and his wife, Queenzy, for their prayers and directives while highlighting the support of the 16 presiding elders towards the competition.

Report by Pastor Isaac Kwabena Twumasi Ankrah

HUM Organises First Edition Of Vulnerable Kids Camp Meeting web

HUM Organises First Edition Of Vulnerable Kids Camp

The Home and Urban Missions (HUM) of The Church of Pentecost is undertaking the first-ever national camp meeting for vulnerable children within marginalised communities, including slums and ghettos.

This novelty aims to impart the principles of Christ to over five hundred children, providing them with a nurturing environment.

The camp meeting commenced with the official opening by Apostle Emmanuel Agyei, the National Coordinator of Home and Urban Missions, on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at the Pentecost Convention Centre in Gomoa-Fetteh.

The event drew participation from approximately three hundred vulnerable kids representing eight areas in the Greater Accra, Eastern Region, and certain parts of the Central Region.

During his address to the participants, Apostle Emmanuel Agyei Kwafo shared his personal journey from the slums and emphasized how divine transformation through the church and its teachings shaped his life.

He urged all children present to submit themselves to the authority of God through the teachings and activities conducted at the camp.

Apostle Emmanuel Agyei Kwafo assured the children that they would experience the love of Christ during their time at the camp, and their lives would be profoundly impacted.

Taking a moment to pray for the children, he beseeched God to elevate them to the level of greatness desired by God, bringing honor to their nation, families, and the church at large.

Report by HUM Media

Mr. Johnson Asare Is 2023 Best Christian Sound Engineer web

Mr. Johnson Asare Is 2023 Best Christian Sound Engineer

Mr. Johnson Kofi Asare of Mount Olives Worship Centre of The Church of Pentecost took home the Best Christian Sound Engineer of the Year award at the recently held Praise Achievement Awards ceremony.

The event, marking only its second edition, unfolded at the grandeur of the Royal House Chapel International, known as The Oil Dome, and drew in a distinguished assembly of luminaries from the Christian fraternity.

Mr. Johnson Asare, who works with Upswing Music and also serves as CEO of Wavesonic Studios, is renowned for his exceptional work ethic and impeccable sound engineering experience.

He has been the driving force behind the sound engineering at major events of The Church of Pentecost held at The Pentecost Convention Center.

Armed with a BSc in Information Technology from Pentecost University, Mr. Asare seamlessly blends his technical expertise with a passion for his craft, making him a standout professional in the field.

The Praise Achievement Awards not only recognised Mr. Johnson Kofi Asare’s outstanding contributions to Christian sound engineering but also celebrated his unwavering dedication and talent that resonate across the Christian community.

Report by Mt Olives Worship Centre Media Team