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Saturday, February 24, 2024, marked a day of mourning in Ghana as individuals from all walks of life gathered to pay tribute to an illustrious son of the land, Apostle Dr Michael Ntumy, a distinguished recipient of the nation’s highest honour, the Order of the Volta.

As early as 5:00 am, heavy traffic congested Independence Avenue – Castle Road, leading to the State House, where a memorial service was held in his honour before his interment at Krachi, his native town.

Dr Ntumy, undoubtedly a national treasure, was honoured in a manner that surpassed expectations. Ghanaians’ expression of genuine love for him was palpable on what could be described as his final day on earth.

Despite the absence of the President of Ghana, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who was away on an emergency visit, almost every influential figure in Ghana turned out to pay their last respects to this remarkable man. The gathering included the Vice President, H. E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former President, H.E John Dramani Mahama, ministers of state, church leaders, members of the judiciary, politicians, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries, creating a massive assembly.

As expected, ministers and members of the Church, both within and outside Ghana, came in their numbers to bid farewell to a man who dedicated his entire life to the service of God and The Church of Pentecost, even until his last breath.

SECURITY PRESENCE

The security arrangements for the event were robust; starting from the entry point of the Castle Road (Independence Avenue). The presence of policemen managing traffic congestion was evident all the way to the entrance of the State House. The closer one got to the event venue, the more noticeable the heightened security presence became. Observers along the route could sense that something special was taking place at the State House, prompting inquiries from some casual commercial drivers, “what is happening?”

Upon arrival at the State House, two imposing portraits of the beloved former Chairman welcomed visitors, signaling their arrival at the venue. Inside the forecourt, a multitude of security personnel stood ready, tasked with ensuring the much-needed security for the event.

FILE PAST

Around 6:00 am, the event venue was nearly at full capacity, providing attendees with the chance to pay their respects by filing past the body of the departed church leader. A long-winding queue of mourners filed around the body of Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy. The protocol team, dressed in their distinctive white polo shirts, were faced with the challenging task of managing the crowds and maintaining order at the service. However, this was anticipated, given that the gathering was unlike any other experienced.

A TIME OF GLORIOUS PRAISE

At some point of the service, Elder Dr. Kwasi Mireku and the Voice of Pentecost, the national choir of The Church of Pentecost, took the stage to lead the congregation in choruses. The crowd responded by moving towards the dance floor. The traditional rulers led the way, followed by the clergy and other distinguished personalities. Nana Kofi Abuna, the Chief of Essipong in the Western Region, skillfully led the royal procession. It was a beautiful sight as royal handlers expertly swung the royal umbrellas in the air.

As expected, everyone was on their feet, praising God for gifting the world with the presence of the general for the last 65 years. Congregants waved and tossed white and black handkerchiefs and cloths into the air as they danced around the mortal remains of Apostle Ntumy. The tambourine players showcased their choreographic skills, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. It was simply a whole vibe!

There was a brief period of “positive commotion” as patrons thronged the grounds, adding to the euphoria and creating a spirited atmosphere befitting of a Gallant Soldier of the Cross. Admittedly, the atmosphere resembled more of a convention than a funeral service.

RAW EMOTIONS ON DISPLAY

The service took an emotional turn as the bereaved family took a final look at their beloved while filing past his body. Raw emotions were evident as the widow, children, and other relatives of Apostle Ntumy grappled with the reality of bidding farewell to the man who had been a profound blessing to the family.

ARRIVAL OF DIGNITARIES

The event received a significant boost with the arrival of the former President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, and his entourage. The gathering welcomed him with enthusiasm upon his arrival. Upon entering, he promptly paid his respects by filing past the remains of Apostle Dr. Ntumy. Subsequently, he exchanged pleasantries with dignitaries and proceeded to take his seat.

Shortly after, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Frema Opare, followed suit. The Vice President and his entourage also arrived later and filed past the remains of the departed former Chairman.

PREZ’S EULOGY

In a tribute read on his behalf by the Vice President, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo stated: “Apostle Dr. Ntumy was an outstanding servant of the Church, the Ghanaian people, and the public interest. His objective was always the advancement of Ghana, and even in his days of ill-health, he continued to make crucial interventions in our nation’s discourse.”

The President emphasised that Apostle Ntumy has left a significant void not only in The Church of Pentecost but also in the wider Christian space, being a constant source of good, rich Christian counsel.

“THE DARLING BOY”

The General Council affectionately referred to Apostle Dr. Ntumy as the “Darling Boy of The Church of Pentecost”, recognising the widespread love he received from the church members.

“God’s Chosen General, Apostle Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy, whose mortal remains lie before us this morning, conquered nations with the gospel, broke barriers and reached the unreached, built bridges with various churches and para-church organisations, set the pace to elevate The Church of Pentecost to a higher level, thereby gaining national and global prominence. Today, as he ends his divine assignment on earth, we cannot help but salute him for the exploits the Lord used him to do,” the Council’s tribute read.

MORE TRIBUTES POUR IN

The President of The Apostolic Church of Ghana (TAC), Apostle Dr. Aaron Ami-Narh, delivered a tribute on behalf of the TAC, celebrating the life of the former Chairman.

“Today, we gather in solemn commemoration and heartfelt celebration of the life of Apostle Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy, former Chairman of The Church of Pentecost. In these brief moments, I wish to honour the memory of a person who lived a life filled with love, purpose, and a remarkable enthusiasm and passion for the work of God.”

The Bible Society of Ghana also presented an eulogy for its former President, depicting him as a pillar of faith and a visionary leader who served the Bible Society of Ghana with unwavering dedication.

“He possessed a rare charisma, an affable nature that put everyone at ease. As the youngest ever President of the Bible Society, he brought not just youthful energy but a profound understanding of the Bible and a passion to cause its message to reach every nook and cranny of Ghana,” the tribute read.

More tributes flowed in from the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), the Elim Pentecostal Church, UK, The Church of Pentecost Liberia, and The Church of Pentecost, Germany, among several others.

MADAM MARTHA LAUDED

The General Council of The Church of Pentecost expressed admiration for Madam Martha Ntumy, the wife of the late former Chairman, Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy, commending her for what they deemed an unparalleled dedication to her late husband. They described her as “an inspirational example of resolute will and a tireless spirit.”

In a heartfelt tribute, read on behalf of the Council by the General Secretary of the Church, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, Madam Ntumy was praised for the exceptional role that she played during Apostle Ntumy’s 15 years of incapacitation through paralysis.

“Undoubtedly, there were high tides and low tides during those years, but Mama Martha’s tireless support served as an invincible pillar, helping our father navigate through them all. Her commitment was deeply woven into the fabric of endurance and love that held the family together,” the tribute read.

Similar commendations were echoed in Apostle Eric Nyamekye’s sermon during the service and in the tribute delivered by President Nana Akufo-Addo.

“A MAN GREATLY LOVED”

During the event, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, delivered a compelling sermon on the theme “A Man Greatly Loved by God.” Speaking about Apostle Dr. Ntumy and Daniel, he emphasised that both men were deeply loved by God for their lives of service and righteousness. Apostle Nyamekye encouraged all those present, particularly the ministers, to draw inspiration from Apostle Dr. Ntumy’s life and to be ready to serve God even in times of adversity.

FOOD VENDORS CASH IN

The road stretch witnessed a bustling business day for traders. Numerous food vendors set up shops, anticipating substantial earnings from the massive event. In a conversation with PENTECOST NEWS, one vendor revealed that they strategically choose to participate when they sensed a significant event on the horizon. Judging from the enthusiastic atmosphere, they were convinced that this day would be one of those occasions. Scripture says in Psalm 19:12 the righteous shall flourish like a palm tree. This phenomenon adds to the testament of the man, who, even in death, continues to be a source of economic opportunities for people.

A GLORIOUS END

The service ended on a very high note with members of the Executive Council carrying the casket containing the mortal remains of the former Chairman. This was uncharacteristic but a sign of deep honour and reverence for the ‘darling boy.’

The President was definitely spot on when he said in his tribute that “Apostle Dr. Ntumy truly deserves the befitting farewell being accorded him today, in recognition of his social and spiritual services to the growth of Ghana.”

Like Apostle Paul, God’s Chosen General, has fought the good fight, finished his race, and kept the faith to the end. Now what awaits him is the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge will award him.

“God’s Chosen General, Apostle Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy, whose mortal remains lie before us this morning, conquered nations with the gospel, broke barriers and reached the unreached, built bridges with various churches and para-church organisations, set the pace to elevate The Church of Pentecost to a higher level, thereby gaining national and global prominence. Today, as he ends his divine assignment on earth, we cannot help but salute him for the exploits the Lord used him to do.”

The above was contained in a reflective tribute by the General Council of The Church of Pentecost in honour of the late Former Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy. The glorious memorial service was held today [Saturday, February 24, 2024] at the forecourt of the State House in Accra. Read by the General Secretary of the Church, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, the Council eulogised the man it described as the “Darling Boy” of The Church of Pentecost.

“Apostle Dr. Ntumy was a Bible expositor par excellence who taught the Bible with flair. This was so because he cultivated enough time for meditation and studying the Scriptures. He was also prayerful and never underestimated the role of prayer in managing the affairs of the Church. This resulted in the many outstanding achievements recorded under his tenure as Chairman and minister. His administrative acumen, though young, was never questioned due to the unique wisdom and human relationship skills God endowed him with,” he read.

The Church of Pentecost praised him for his tremendous impact on the world, evidenced by the mammoth gathering of faithful statesmen, politicians, loved ones, and members of the general public.

The Council paid tribute to his eventful 39-year service in full-time ministry of the Church, acknowledging his extraordinary work ethic and passion for lost souls.

“Due to his passion for lost souls, the leadership of the Church sent him to missions and stationed him in Buchanan City, Liberia, as a District Minister. His presence there saw a massive growth of the Church in Liberia until the nation was engulfed in civil war. His love for the Church and humanity saw him stay with the members in Liberia with his family in the heat of the war at the peril of his life. Through it all, God rescued him from the melee, and, amazingly, no member of the Church lost their lives in the war, though they were taken hostage into a ‘camp of no return.’”

From Liberia, Apostle Ntumy continued the work of ministry in La Cote d’Ivoire as National Head. He broke many grounds for the Church to be planted in many parts of the country and established a Francophone Bible College. His apostolic ministry led him to neighbouring countries, specifically Mali and Niger, where he pioneered the Church in those countries.

Perhaps Apostle Ntumy’s most significant contributions to the church came when he was elected into the high office of Chairman at the relatively young age of 40 in 1998.

Under his ten-year leadership as Chairman, the Church experienced exponential numerical, spiritual, financial, and material growth, gaining global prominence. This caught the attention of the then President of the Republic, His Excellency President John Agyekum Kufuor, to confer on him the prestigious Order of the Volta, Companion national laurel,

Another significant achievement during his tenure was the Church’s 100% membership growth (from 803,229 to 1,699,412) at the end of his tenure, resulting in the creation of many administrative Areas and Districts to ensure the effective management of the members and church resources.

Indeed, the Ntumy Administration was greeted with supernatural happenings in all facets of the Church. During his tenure as Chairman, the Church’s then Bible College was upgraded to a university status and known as Pentecost University College (PUC), now Pentecost University (PU); the two Pentecost senior high schools in Koforidua and Kumasi and other educational facilities were established.

During the same period, the Church’s health frontiers were expanded by establishing many health centres in various communities across Ghana, while the Pentecost Hospital in Madina received a significant facelift.

At age 50 in 2008, Apostle Dr. Ntumy ended his chairmanship and was transferred to Germany as national head, a position he held until February 2011, when he was struck by paralysis. In 2013, he was appointed Director of Pentecost Literary Works, which he operated with two moving fingers, from his residence in Germany. Over the past ten years, he co-edited 20 published books for the Church and contributed many published book chapters.

Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy retired from active ministry on September 24, 2023, in Hamburg, Germany. He was called home by his Maker in his home country, Ghana, on December 27, 2023, a few months after his retirement.

PENTECOST NEWS.

The General Council of The Church of Pentecost has commended Madam Martha Ntumy, the wife of the late former Chairman, Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy, for what they described as an unparalleled dedication to her late husband, describing her as “an inspirational example of resolute will and a tireless spirit.”

In a moving tribute read on behalf of the Council by the General Secretary of the Church, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, Madam Ntumy was lauded for the exceptional role that Mama Martha played during Apostle Ntumy’s 15 years of incapacitation through paralysis.

“There were undoubtedly high tides and low tides during those years, but Mama Martha’s tireless support served as an invincible pillar, helping our father navigate through them all. Her commitment was deeply woven into the fabric of endurance and love that held the family together,” the tribute read.

The Council praised her for serving as a steadfast presence by his side in both good times and bad: “Mama Martha, a woman blessed by God, was like a dependable rock during this trying period. Her faith never wavered; instead, it became the beacon that guided our father through the darkest of times. She weathered the storms and shared in the days of clear skies, embodying the essence of a truly loyal and caring partner. Without a doubt, her strength and tenacity deserve our utmost praise.”

It further read: “We commend Mama Martha not just for standing by our father during these times, but also for taking him through this journey with grace and resilience that commands respect.

“Her example of dutiful care and relentless support during a period when many others might have faltered is a testament to her remarkable character. Mama Martha’s role was not just significant but life-changing and awe-inspiring.

We do not simply commend her for her efforts; we respect her and hold her in the highest esteem for the role she has played so well.”

A glorious memorial service was held in honour of Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy at the forecourt of the State House. The event drew a mammoth gathering of dignitaries and members of the Church who turned up in numbers to pay their last respects to the former Chairman of The Church of Pentecost and former President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC).

PENTECOST NEWS.

The Bible Society of Ghana has described Apostle Dr Michael Kwabena Ntumy, a former President of the society, as a visionary leader who brought a lot of transformation into the society.

“As the youngest-ever President of the Bible Society, he brought not just youthful energy but a profound understanding of the Bible and a passion to cause its message to reach every nook and cranny of Ghana.

“His tenure was marked by transformative initiatives and impactful projects like the ‘One Million Bibles’ project. The one million Bible project made available Good News Bibles free to a million Junior High School pupils in three years’ period. The project, which started in 2010, was completed in 2013. Through his leadership, countless young minds were equipped with the Word, laying a foundation of faith, and shaping the future of many.”

This was contained in a tribute read by the Bible Society of Ghana at the memorial and burial service of Apostle Ntumy, a former Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, held at the Forecourt of the State House on Saturday, February 24, 2024. He was called to glory on December 27, 2023, in Accra.

The Bible Society commended the services of Apostle Ntumy describing him as a pillar of faith and a visionary leader who served the Bible Society of Ghana with unwavering dedication, saying, “He possessed a rare charisma, an affable nature that put everyone at ease.”

Under his guidance, the Bible House in James Town underwent a remarkable transformation in 2007. This project which was completed six months ahead of schedule, reflected his characteristic efficiency and drive to see things through with excellence, the the tribute said.

“Though his physical presence is gone, the flame he ignited continues to burn brightly. As we mourn his passing, we celebrate his life, drawing strength from his example. Let us continue his mission, spreading the Word, fostering relationships, and building a society enriched by faith and compassion,” it further said.

PENTECOST NEWS

The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has eulogised Apostle Dr Michael Kwabena Ntumy, a former President of the Council who brought a lot of dynamism and freshness to the largest ecumenical body in Ghana.

Apostle Dr Ntumy, who was called to glory on December 27, 2023, was the President of the GPCC from 1998 to 2008.

In a tribute read at the memorial and burial of Apostle Dr Ntumy held on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at the Forecourt of the State House, Accra, the GPCC stated: “His election as President brought dynamism and freshness to the Council which translated in many independent churches joining the fold of the Council.”

According to the Council, Apostle Ntumy’s passion for the unity of the churches in Ghana towards the cause of the Kingdom was extra-ordinary.

“He was a visionary leader; he initiated the constitutional review process to allow Charismatic Church leaders to be elected into the presidency of the Council as one of the Vice Presidents. He further mobilised the Council to acquire a plot of land at East Legon which is now home to the National Secretariat of the Council.

“Dr Ntumy was a caring leader; he would go out of his way to make friends with colleagues and subordinates alike. He was concerned that they progressed intellectually, professionally and in family life; he would inquire of the welfare of spouses and children,” the tribute said.

It added: “He was a selfless leader; despite his busy schedules as Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, he still made time to honour invitations from various GPCC member churches to attend their conventions, anniversaries, retreats and even social engagements in the company of his wife, Lady Martha Ntumy.”

The GPCC further noted that the former President was a leader with the welfare of the poor and marginalised at heart, having served as a member of the Ghana Aids Commission and the National Patron of the Blind Teachers’ Association of Ghana.

The GPCC leadership extended its condolences to his bereaved wife, Lady Martha, the children and the great family of The Church of Pentecost.

PENTECOST NEWS

The President of Ghana, His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has praised Apostle Dr. Michael Ntumy, the late former Chairman of The Church of Pentecost.

In a tribute to the revered man of God read on his behalf by the Vice President, H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, at a memorial service held in his honour at the forecourt of the State House today, the President expressed sadness at the passing of the man, many touted as “God’s Chosen General.”

“It is not often that it can be said of someone that he or she has finished his or her life’s work, and with distinction. But we can certainly say that about the man we are gathered here to celebrate,” he said.

He noted that Apostle Ntumy, who served as the fourth Chairman of The Church of Pentecost from 1998 to 2008, was widely known for his life of discipline, honesty, and integrity, saying: “He was an outstanding servant of the Church, the Ghanaian people, and the public interest. His objective was always the advancement of Ghana, and even in his days of ill-health, he continued to make crucial interventions in our nation’s discourse.”

According to him, Apostle Ntumy has left a big void not only in The Church of Pentecost but also in the wider Christian space, as he was a constant source of good, rich Christian counsel.

“He deserves the befitting farewell being accorded him today in recognition of his social and spiritual services to the growth of democratic Ghana. He will be sorely missed,” he said.

He also extended deepest condolences to his loyal companion and wife, Martha, his children, The Church of Pentecost, and all the people of Ghana who have suffered a great loss in the departure of their faithful servant. “May his soul rest and abide in the bosom of the Almighty until the last day of the Resurrection when we shall all meet again,” he said.

BRIEF PROFILE OF APOSTLE DR. MICHAEL K. NTUMY

The late Apostle Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy was born at Osramane-Dadease on September 22, 1958, to Opanin Kwaku Kumah and Obaapanin Adwoa Tiwaah from Osramane- Dadease, near Kete-Krachi. Both of his parents have gone to be with the Lord. He was the fifth of the ten children of his parents. His father, who was affectionately called Agya Aku, officially named him after his elder brother, Kwabena Ntumy.

In 1964, at the age of six, Ntumy began his education at the Osramane Local Authority Primary “B” School. When he was in class one, he transferred to Primary “A” School, where he joined his colleagues in class three instead of class two on the advice of his friend, Joseph Ntumy. In 1973, he completed the Middle School Leaving Certificate examination with distinction. Kwabena, as he was affectionately called within family circles, became the school prefect in his final year.

Although he passed the entrance examinations for both secondary school and Teachers’ Training College, he preferred the latter. He, therefore, enrolled at Atebubu Teachers’ Training College in 1973 at the age of 15 and passed out on July 7, 1977, with a Teachers’ Certificate “A” at the age of 19. He was among the seventh batch of students who graduated from the College that year.

On the higher level of the academic ladder, Michael Kwabena Ntumy won a scholarship in 1992, which allowed him to attend a monthlong intensive Advanced Christian Leadership Seminar in Singapore. He also studied at the Regents Theological College in Nantwich (affiliated with the University of Manchester, UK), and obtained a Master of Theology degree in 2000. His pursuit of knowledge motivated him to study for a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Theology and Organizational Governance from an affiliated college of the Southern Christian University in Florida, USA, where he graduated in 2008.

In 1984, at the age of 26, he was called into the full-time ministry of The Church of Pentecost. After ministerial training at the Pentecost Bible Training Centre at Madina, Accra, he was stationed at Tamale until 1985, when he was transferred to Krachi Nkwanta. In 1988, he was posted to Liberia as a missionary and was stationed in Buchanan City. During the Liberian civil war when Charles Taylor’s National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL) rebels captured some of the resident citizens of the five West African nations, including Ghana, that supplied troops for the operations of ECOMOG, Apostle Dr. Michael Kwabena Ntumy, his wife, their four children and a niece were taken hostage and transported to a rebel camp known as Flamingo Camp, nicknamed “The Camp of No Return” where they spent 185 days.

Even though many of the hostages lost their lives, the Lord miraculously saved the lives of Apostle Ntumy and his household. They returned to Ghana in 1991. In that same year, he was called into the office of apostle and was posted to La Cὃte d’Ivoire as National Head. Whilst on a ministerial trek in La Cὃte d’Ivoire in July 1992, he and his wife were involved in a terrible motor accident. [His paralysis in later years of his life is traced back to this unfortunate event.]

In 1996, he was transferred from La Cὃte d’Ivoire to France as the church’s first Resident Missionary and National Head. While serving as a missionary in France in 1998, Apostle Ntumy was elected as the 4th Chairman of The Church of Pentecost at age 40. Under his ten-year leadership as Chairman, the Church experienced exponential numerical, spiritual, financial, and material growth, gaining global prominence. This caught the attention of the then President of the Republic, His Excellency President John Agyekum Kufuor, to confer on him the prestigious Order of the Volta, Companion national laurel.

The Ntumy Administration was greeted with supernatural happenings in all facets of the Church. In education, the Church’s then Bible College was upgraded to a university status and known as Pentecost University College, now Pentecost University; the two Pentecost senior high schools in Koforidua and Kumasi, and other educational facilities were established. During the same period, the Church’s health frontiers were expanded by establishing many health centres in various communities across Ghana, while the Pentecost Hospital in Madina received a significant facelift. The Church’s membership grew by over 100%, increasing from 803,229 to 1,699,412 at the end of his tenure. This led to the creation of many administrative Areas and Districts to ensure the effective management of the members and church resources.

Thus, at age 50 in 2008, Apostle Dr Ntumy ended his chairmanship and was transferred to Germany as national head.  However, after a surgical operation on his cervical spine in France, he became paralysed in the lower parts of his body. Being a man of faith who was highly optimistic, he did not let his disability incapacitate him. From 2013, he served as the church’s Director of Literary Works until September 24, 2023, when he retired in Hamburg, Germany.

He returned to Ghana on December 18, 2023, to finally rest from his active duty as a minister. We thought we were going to enjoy his wisdom, counsel, and all the great things he was made up of.

On Wednesday, December 27, 2023, God retired him from earthly duties as well. The peaceful and glorious clarion call welcomed him to his eternal home, and he gladly answered. Though the void remaining is huge, he has left great testimonies and legacies of Christian service.

May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace!

PENTECOST NEWS.