A glorious retirement service was held on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Bethel Assembly in James Town District in the Asamankese Area in honour of Pastor Stephen and Mrs Jane Ewusie-Ocran, marking the culmination of thirty years of faithful service as full-time ministers of The Church of Pentecost.
Pastor Ewusie-Ocran and his wife were called to full-time ministry in 1995 and served in various districts, including Sefwi Akontombra, Yeji, Miaso, Aburi, Olebu, and finally Asamankese James Town, where he concluded his ministerial journey.
The colourful and spirit-filled service brought together their family, ministers and their spouses, members of the Asamankese Area, and delegates from districts where the couple had previously served.
The service was officiated by Apostle Dr Amos Jimmy Markin, Cape Coast Area Head and Executive Council member of the Church. He was assisted by Apostle Emmanuel Kojo Aidoo, Asamankese Area Head, and Pastor Samuel Acquaah, Oda Area Head.
In a sermon delivered under the theme ‘God’s Eternal Marking Scheme,’ Apostle Dr Markin drew inspiration from Romans 14:4 and Matthew 25:14-30.
He noted that retirement services often highlight testimonies about ministers, which may invite comparisons. However, he reminded the congregation that God is the ultimate judge of all people and the one who assesses the faithfulness of their work. He encouraged believers to refrain from destructive criticism and instead cultivate a spirit of encouragement and mutual support.
He observed that while the world may misunderstand and critique the work of ministers, the body of Christ must remain united and protective of one another. This message was powerfully summarised in the Akan expression, ‘Sɛ nipa wɔ hɔ a… nipa nsɛe,’ to wit, ‘Where there are people, no one should be allowed to self-destruct.’ He emphasised that although believers are called to rebuke, correct, and intercede for one another, judgment ultimately belongs to God alone.
He concluded with two expectations that God, the righteous judge, demands from all His workers, irrespective of the talents He has given them. These two qualities are ‘Goodness’ and ‘Faithfulness.’ He added that these two qualities are not only expectations for servants, but God’s hallmark for whatever He does.
The service was graced by several dignitaries, including ministers and their wives from the Asamankese Area, families, and church officers from former districts.
Report by Edward Asamoah, Asamankese
