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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)

INTRODUCTION

The Church of Pentecost takes immense pride in its well-established structures, systems, and processes that steer the course of the Church’s activities. The noteworthy successes achieved by the Church are a testament to the intentional internal activities set up by the founding fathers and continuously improved upon by the current leadership. These activities are designed to foster progress, cultivate excellence, and propel growth. One such vital internal activity is the Head Office Management and Staff Retreats.

WHO ARE HEAD OFFICE STAFF AND MANAGEMENT

Within the Church’s framework, there exists a category of individuals who are the unsung heroes, the backbone of the global mission of the Church – the Head Office management and staff. Though often not in the limelight, they play a strategic role in implementing the Church’s vision over the years.

These professional Christians, including ministers of The Church, are members and officers employed and/or seconded to the Head office of The Church of Pentecost and its affiliates. They provide strategic, tactical, and operational services, enabling the fulfillment of goals and objectives set by the frontline officers – the ministers of the gospel in the field.

THE REFRESHING TIMES OF HEAD OFFICE RETREATS

Given the pivotal role these individuals play in advancing the Church’s mission over time and recognizing that we exist within a spiritual ecosystem, a sacred convocation is called for at the end of every year. This gathering is known as the Head Office Management and Staff Retreats, a time set aside for participants to refresh, revamp, and retreat to prepare for the upcoming year.

These retreats are more than just events; they are invigorating moments of learning, bonding, and recreation. In this reflection, I’ll share my insights based on the experience of the 2023 edition.

LEARNING

In the school of the spirit, where growth is continuous, the Head Office retreats create an atmosphere of learning. The chaplaincy and organizers meticulously plan each retreat, ensuring a structured timetable aimed at personal and corporate development. This year’s retreat covered a comprehensive blend of topics, including understanding the leadership equation, fostering effective office relationships, and emphasizing the importance of health management, stress avoidance, physical activities, and future financial planning, including retirement preparations.

BONDING

The Head Office management and staff retreat serve as moments for bonding and building chemistry among colleagues. Whether in shared rooms, at dining tables, or in the main auditorium, the warmth among participants transcends the chilly air conditioning. As staff members often work independently in distinct offices, the retreat provides a rare opportunity for personal interactions, resulting in warm embraces, joyful laughter, and shouts of elation upon reuniting with colleagues.

RECREATION

An exciting addition to this year’s retreat was the inclusion of indoor games and a carols night, bringing a delightful twist to the event. Participants engaged in ludu, oware, and ampe, with the General Secretary, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, and the Director of the Counselling Ministry, Apostle Dr. Phillip Osei-Korsah, facing off in a spirited competition. The highlight was the carols night, featuring soulful renditions by staff members. The evening was complemented by a delectable spread of grilled gizzard, chicken, plantain chips, asana, and fruit juice, creating an early Christmas atmosphere for the COP Headquarters.

CONCLUSION

Reflecting on the last few days of retreating at the Pentecost Convention Centre as a Head Office staff, I couldn’t help but express gratitude for the visionary leadership that organizes these events annually. The careful curation of these retreats, under the guidance of our fathers, ensures they remain refreshing, revamping, and resourceful.

Long live The Church of Pentecost!

Long live the Headquarters Management and Staff!

Long live the body of Christ!

Written by Pastor Kwasi Asante ANNOR (General Manager, PENT TV)

In today’s interconnected world, Christianity is discovering innovative ways to reach people through modern technology and media. A growing movement within the church is the emergence of “media evangelists” – Christians who utilise radio, television, movies, the internet, and social media to spread the gospel message.

Noteworthy among these evangelists in Ghana are Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, Pastor William Boachie-Ansah, Pastor Emmanuel Kyei Boate, Pastor Elvis Agyemang, and some prominent ministers in The Church of Pentecost (CoP).

At the forefront of this movement is Pastor Greg Durel, a dynamic preacher with a passion for merging Christianity and technology. Through his website, podcast, and social media channels, Durel engages millions of followers with his upbeat, relevant sermons and encouragement.

“Jesus commissioned us to go into all the world and share the good news,” says Durel. “With today’s technology, we have more ways than ever to fulfil that calling.”

Durel primarily focuses on reaching young people, a demographic he says feels disconnected from traditional Christianity. His podcast, “Good News Daily,” provides inspiring stories and devotions in a fast-paced, high-production style that appeals to millennials and Gen Z.

“I want to speak the language of this generation,” explains Durel. “The message doesn’t change, but the delivery system must adapt.”

Critics argue that media evangelism oversimplifies complex theology and reduces Christianity to feel-good platitudes. However, Durel believes he’s bringing timeless biblical principles into the 21st century.

Another angle is that some churches and ministers in our country, Ghana, have developed a significant interest in the media space and are making good use of it. Some prominent figures include Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the CoP, who, through his vision, has expanded the media interest in The Church of Pentecost. Gallant ministers such as Pastors William Boachie-Ansah, Emmanuel Kyei Boate, and Kwasi Asante Annor (General Manager, Pent TV) spend their time defending the Christian faith, motivating others with the gospel whenever they visit their social media handles.

Through their active participation on social media, the gospel reaches a larger audience beyond the church premises, saving several perishing souls. Our responsibility as Christians is to proclaim the gospel, and as the world keeps changing, technology takes its place and rules the world.

“At its core, Christianity is about salvation, hope, and having a relationship with Jesus Christ,” he says. “We can communicate those essentials in fresh ways without compromising the truth.”

As media evangelists like Durel gain more traction, Christianity is poised to experience a new wave of growth and engagement. Believers worldwide are excited to see how God will continue using modern communication tools to bring the life-changing message of the gospel to every nation.

In summary, never forget to appreciate the media personnel in the church. If it’s about gadgets, the church should provide them. If it’s about motivation, let the church inspire them to work, remembering that motivation is about money and powerful words. Furthermore, for seminars, invite resource personnel to train the team to deliver good content on social media and reach a larger audience.

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