A celebratory retirement service was held on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the Mamponteng Central Assembly auditorium in Kumasi in honour of Pastor Stephen Ayerakwa Gyan and his wife, Mrs. Gladys Gyan, who have faithfully served in the full-time ministry of The Church of Pentecost for 26 years.
The well-attended event was characterised by joy, gratitude and warm tributes from the Church and community. The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Samuel Gyau Obuobi, chaired the service, assisted by the Old Tafo Area Head, Apostle Daniel Yeboah Nsaful, and other Area Heads from the Ashanti Region.
Several relatives of the retiring couple, traditional leaders, ministers and ministers’ wives from across the country, officers, as well as members from the Mamponteng District and past duty stations also graced the momentous occasion.
In a touching sermon titled “The Faithful Servant and His Reward,” Apostle Obuobi asserted that faithfulness is the very nature of God hence it is expected that the same trait be seen in His children (Christians).
Quoting Matthew 25:21 and 1 Corinthians 4:2, he highlighted three key areas of faithfulness—faithfulness to God, to the holy calling, and to the Church as the institution that provides a platform for ministry. “God does not reward titles; He rewards faithfulness,” he stressed.
He described a faithful servant as one who is obedient, humble, diligent, and committed, adding that even small acts of faithfulness attract divine reward.
“We need a generation of faithful Christians,” he charged, stressing the values of obedience, humility, diligence, and commitment.
Pastor Stephen Ayerakwa Gyan, affectionately called “Cardinal” by his colleagues, began ministry in 1999 after a career that included roles as a sales personnel, factory apprentice, entrepreneur, and pharmacy cashier. He was called into the full-time ministry from Takoradi and served in Oppong Valley, Worawora, Japekrom, Agbogba, and finally, Mamponteng District.
Throughout his ministry, he distinguished himself as a principled, prayerful, and Spirit-filled leader. Under his leadership, the Mamponteng District saw significant growth in membership, evangelism initiatives like “I Know My Sheep”, infrastructural development, and strong pastoral care. His ministry has been marked by a strong emphasis on prayer, sound teaching, church growth, pastoral care, and leadership. His sermons, marked by depth, clarity, and practical illustrations, left lasting impact.
Mrs. Gladys Ayerakwa Gyan, a loving and prayerful support to her husband, was also praised for her humility, wisdom, and nurturing spirit. Known for her hospitality and vibrant role in the Women’s Ministry, she helped strengthen prayer groups and mentored many officers’ wives.
Elder Charles Ayerakwa Gyan, one of the four children of the retiring couple, was also specially acknowledged during the service for his exceptional commitment to the work of the Church. Apostle Daniel Yeboah Nsaful praised his active involvement in all ministries of the Church within the Mamponteng District and the Old Tafo Area at large.
“Charles has contributed significantly to his father’s ministry, particularly during their time here at Mamponteng. He will be dearly missed,” Apostle Nsaful remarked.
In glowing testimonies, the General Council, the Old Tafo Area Pastorate, the Mamponteng District Presbytery, and the Women’s Ministry all hailed the couple’s unwavering dedication, leadership, and Christ-like lifestyle. They were presented citations and a plaque of service as physical testimonials of the great service to God and humanity.
The General Secretary commended Pastor and Mrs. Ayerakwa Gyan for serving as true examples of faithfulness, and then led the ministers and congregants present to pray for a restful, fruitful and refreshing retirement for the couple.
PENT NEWS.
