“It is better to invest in people more than in physical structures. After all, these young ones will one day grow and put up more significant structures for the Church,” Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of The Church OF Pentecost.
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In recent times, The Church of Pentecost (CoP) has faced unwarranted criticism on social media, with some accusing its leadership of failing to support the poor in society. These allegations are not just inaccurate, but they also overshadow the profound and ongoing contributions of the church to uplift society’s most vulnerable members.
Over the years, The Church of Pentecost with presence in 171 nations has committed itself wholeheartedly to the welfare of the poor, yet it has chosen to do so quietly, adhering to a philosophy of humility and discretion. (Matthew 6:3: But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing).
For years, the leadership of The Church of Pentecost has been quietly, and effectively spearheading efforts aimed at addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by the poor. Far from being indifferent, the church has been implementing wholistic programmes that cater for the social needs of the disadvantaged without seeking public accolades or recognition. This modesty should not be mistaken for inactivity as the church’s endeavours have been both extensive and impactful.
Educational Scholarships
One of the cornerstone initiatives championed by the church is its commitment to education. Recognising that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, The Church of Pentecost offers an array of scholarships to students from underprivileged backgrounds. These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but also provide accommodation, books, uniforms, and other essential supplies.
The Church of Pentecost has long recognised that education is the key to unlocking potential and driving societal progress. To this end, the leadership of the Church has implemented a robust scholarship programme that extends beyond mere financial aid.
Five years ago, despite having quite a significant number of churches under trees and dilapidated structures, the Church took the extraordinary and quite audacious decision to use part of the funds meant for the construction of church buildings to support needy but brilliant members of the church through tertiary education at the Pentecost University and other institutions.
“It is better to invest in people more than in physical structures. After all, these young ones will one day grow and put up more significant structures for the Church,” Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of the Church, who was the chief proponent of this action, justified.
Thus, the Church’s scholarships are particularly aimed at students from underprivileged backgrounds, providing them with opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach. The scholarship covers tuition and accommodation, lifting a significant burden off families and allowing students to focus on their studies.
As a result, countless young men and women have graduated in fields such as medicine, engineering, and education, poised to contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.
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Last year alone (2023), The Church of Pentecost disbursed a substantial sum of GHC 14,281,540.13 (over GHC 14.2m) towards scholarships at all levels.
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By providing these scholarships, The Church of Pentecost did not only ease the financial burdens of many families but also enabled countless young individuals to pursue their academic dreams and reach their full potential. Such an investment in education is a testament to the church’s foresight and dedication to creating a more knowledgeable and skilled populace.
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Take, for instance, the story of Lucky Agbavor, a young and bright street hawker with a dream of becoming a medic. His family’s financial constraints made this dream seem unattainable until he received a four-year scholarship from The Church of Pentecost.
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You can just imagine the relief this brought to Lucky’s mother, a single parent. Today, Lucky is a practicing physician, giving back to his community and serving as an inspiration to others.
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“The Church of Pentecost didn’t just fund my education; they invested in my future and the future of my community. I am very grateful to the Church for helping me follow my dream,” Lucky shares.
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Had The Church of Pentecost chosen to allocate this significant amount of money elsewhere, there are numerous other impactful avenues it could have explored. However, the choice to prioritise educational scholarships highlights the church’s understanding of the transformative power of education. By empowering the youth with the tools they need to succeed academically and professionally, The Church of Pentecost is fostering a generation of well-educated and capable leaders who will contribute to the nation’s growth and prosperity.
This strategic investment will yield long-term benefits, not only for the recipients of the scholarships but for the Church and society as a whole.
The church’s decision to support education so generously is a powerful example of how faith-based organisations can play a pivotal role in societal development, demonstrating a profound commitment to both spiritual and practical growth.
By Pastor Dr. Felix Dela Klutse (Media Director, The CoP Headquarters)