Chairman Lauds Youth Director
The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Kwabena Nyamekye, has commended the Youth Director, Apostle David Nyansah Hayfron, for his sterling leadership qualities and also serving meritoriously as the Director of the Church’s Youth Ministry for eight years.
Other achievements and initiatives of Apostle Hayford as contained in the Chairman’s eulogy are the School of Apologetics, Political Chamber and Youth Business Networks, among others.
Adding his voice to the commendation, the General Secretary, Apostle A.N.Y. Kumi-Larbi was also thankful to the Lord for using Apostle Hayford to accomplish greater things in His kingdom, despite the fact that he took over the work as a young man of 32 years.
According to the General Secretary, Apostle Hayfron did not allow his youthful age to hinder his performance in working among different caliber of people, including those older than him. He, therefore. admonished ministers of the Church not to hesitate to use young people with exceptional grace, but they should tap into their ingenuity, and groom them into vital leadership positions of the Church.
The General Secretary ended his message with a highlight on the Vision 2023 Document. According to him, it has been the desire of the Church's leadership to modify some activities of the Ministries to make them relevant at all times. Thus, the new arrangement offers, at least one meeting day for each Ministry in every month. It is therefore expected of every member belonging to a particular Ministry to participate fully in the activities of that Ministry.
He entreated Ministry leaders to continue to study the vision document to enhance their understanding of the vision of the Church and ensure that it is fulfilled to the glory of God. He called on all church members to be actively involved in the activities of the Church and be agents of transformation of their communities.
The General Secretary made this presentation on behalf of the Chairman of the Church during the inauguration of the 2018 End-of-Year Ministries meeting held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) at Gomoa Fetteh in the Central Region.
The meeting was attended by the National Executive Committee members of all the Ministries of the Church as well as their Area Leaders from all the 67 Areas of the Church across Ghana. Apostle Kumi-Larbi climaxed the programme by leading participants through a session of prayers for successful implementation of the Vision 2023 document.Intercessory prayers were also said for the Chairman and the Executive Council members of the Church.
2019 Pan African Conference For Children’s Ministers Launched
The 2019 edition of the Pan African Conference For Children’s Ministers was officially launched at a colourful ceremony on Friday (March 1, 2019) at the AH Hotel in Accra.
Among the dignitaries who graced the event were: Apostle David Tekper (Achimota Area Head and Executive Council Member), Apostle Prophet Benjamin Augustus Adobah (Former Children’s Director and a retired minister of the Church), Apostle Emmanuel Ofei Ankra Badu (PEMEM Director), Mrs. Grace Lucy Yeboah Asuama (Women’s Director), and Mrs. Catherine Ashong (Calvary Baptist Church) as well as other ministers within and outside the Church. Also present were representatives of SOS Children’s Village Ghana, AWANA Ghana and some child workers at the various levels of the Church.
The conference was launched by Apostle David Tekper on behalf of the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye..
Addressing the gathering at the event, the Children’s Director, Apostle Fred Tiakor, observed with concern the increasing rate at which ungodly behaviours and lifestyles such as homosexuality, have become widespread in the contemporary world.
He noted that children in this dispensation ought to be protected from these emerging vices so as to be well grounded in the Christian faith.
Delivering his remarks at the event, Apostle David Tekper stated that children are important because they are the seeds of the future. He said that, as seeds, they require to be nurtured in order for them to grow well and be productive.
On his part, the Administrative Secretary to the General Secretary, Pastor Abraham Addae Agyemang, who represented the General Secretary, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, at the event, quoted Matthew 18:1-6 to emphasize that children are very special to God.
He, therefore, stated that "Children’s Ministers are equally special because it is written that anyone who welcomes children welcomes Jesus Christ."
He, however, cautioned that since children are very vulnerable, God expects them to be protected and grounded in the Christian faith, adding that: "It is very dangerous to cause a child to stumble."
The Pan African Conference for Children’s Ministers is a non-denominational gathering of all Child workers across the African continent to equip them and build their capacity in order to be abreast with contemporary issues confronting children and how to deal with them.
This year’s event is under the theme “Protective Care of the Child: Our Mandate to Possess the Nations” and is scheduled to take place from July 24 to 27 at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh, near Kasoa. The main speakers for the conference are Apostle Eric Nyamekye (Chairman, COP), Apostle Fred Tiakor (Children’s Director, COP), Rev. Dirk Coetsee (Principal, Petra Institute, South Africa) and Prof. Emmanuel Mbennah (Vice Chancellor, St. John’s University, Tanzania)
COP Constructs Borehole For Gomali Community
The Dabo District of The Church of Pentecost has handed over a borehole to the Gomali community in the Wa West District of the Upper West Region.
The GH¢11,000.00 facility is expected to serve over 1,000 residents in the area.
Narrating the antecedents that led to the construction of the borehole, the District Minister for the Dabo, Overseer Chris Ameyaw, said the people of Gomali prior to the drilling of the borehole, mainly depended on a stream as their main source of water.
"Although there was a borehole in the community, it had become a white elephant because it was cited at a location with low water table. Water therefore did not flow as expected when being pumped, and to worsen the situation, the little water that came out was mixed with sand," he said, adding that the people reverted to a stream where they competed with animals and filth.
Overseer Ameyaw said upon several appeals to the district assembly and the Church, the Teshie-Nungua Area of The Church of Pentecost, led by Apostle Dr. Alfred Koduah, came to the aid of the community by funding the water project.
Speaking on the theme, "Water is Life,” the Wa Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Robert Andoh, said that though it is good for communities to acquire basic necessities like water and electricity, it is more beneficial to seek for and acquire eternal life which comes through Jesus Christ.
Reading from John 4:4-26, Apostle Andoh said the Samaritan woman was diligently protecting a well that could not produce eternal water until she met Jesus who told her everything she ever did.
"This borehole will in no doubt serve the water needs of residents, especially school children but beyond this, you need to seek for Jesus Christ, the Saviour who gives eternal water and embrace Him," he said.
The Area Head used the opportunity to introduce Jesus Christ to the gathering and urged them to accept Him into their lives so that He would give them eternal life.
Commissioning the borehole, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Wa West, Hon. Edward Saabo Laabir, lauded The Church of Pentecost for the intervention, saying, “It is very timely and relevant.”
The DCE said the district is faced with myriad of challenges and needed the support of benevolent individuals and organisations to augment the efforts of government in developing the area.
Hon. Laabir urged the chief and elders of the area to form a committee that would regulate the use of the water and also raise capital to undertake maintenance works on the facility.
The Chief of Gomali, Naa Bafaara Dapilah, could not have been less grateful as he took his turn to pour out his appreciation to the Church for the gesture.
Outreach At Dambai Lakeside District
The Evangelism Ministry of the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC)-Sakumono, popularly referred to as “Life Seekers,” has embarked on a four-day evangelistic outreach at the Dambai Lakeside District in the Volta Region.
The outreach which took place from Wednesday, November 28, to Sunday, December 2, 2018, was preceded by a 21-day fasting and prayer.
The leader of the team, Brother Nana Obrempong Owusu, said the outreach was part of the mandate given by the Lord Jesus Christ to Christians to reach out with the gospel to lost souls and to heal the sick.
The outreach saw the power of God at work in the various communities the team preached the gospel through rallies, house-to-house evangelism and dawn broadcast. Many were healed and liberated from the bondage of the devil, while others were baptised in the Holy Spirit and imparted with spiritual gifts. Living testimonies were shared from the members about how the power of God has liberated them from various diseases. A total of 70 souls were won, out of which 55 received water baptism.
PIWC-Sakumono in recent years has embarked on a number of outreaches to various communities in the country, including Konikablu, Pediatorkope, Agbetikpo in the Greater Accra Region; Sikawobuom in the Eastern Region, as well as New Obuasi, previously Denkyira Obuasi in the Central Region.
The team also distributed clothing, shoes, toiletries, and Bibles to the residents. Stationeries were also given to school children, while about 600 children aged two years and above were administered with dewormers.
The team leader was grateful to the Teshie-Nungua Area Head, Apostle Dr. Alfred Koduah, for his support to the ministry. He was also full of appreciation to their Resident Minister, Pastor Anthony Owusu Sekyere Kwarteng, and the entire church for their varied support in making the outreach a success.
The Dambai Lakeside District Minister, Overseer Gabriel Owusu was grateful for the support his district continuous to receive from the PIWC-Sakumono. The district consists of 24 assemblies.
PIWC-Sakumono in recent years has embarked on a number of outreaches to various communities in the country, including Konikablu, Pediatorkope, Agbetikpo in the Greater Accra Region; Sikawobuom in the Eastern Region, as well as New Obuasi, previously Denkyira Obuasi in the Central Region.
Environmental Care Campaign’ Launched
A nationwide campaign dubbed ‘Environmental Care Campaign’ meant to rid Ghana of filth has been launched in Accra.
The campaign, an initiative of The Church of Pentecost, is being carried out in partnership with the Zoomlion Ghana Company Limited and the Government of Ghana. It is in fulfillment of the Government’s resolve to make Ghana and Accra, the national capital, the cleanliest city in Africa by 2020.
Launching the campaign at the Dome of the Pentecost International Worship Centre at the Accra Technical Training Centre (ATTC) on Thursday, November 22, 2018, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, stated that the ‘Environmental Care Campaign’ is one of the many Church-State partnerships captured in the Church’s vision for the next five years, dubbed Vision 2023, with the overarching theme of “Possessing the Nations: Equipping the Church to transform every sphere of society with values and principles of the Kingdom of God.”
The vision, he said, places emphases on the dual identity of the Church; that the Church is called out of the world to belong to God and sent back into the world to witness and to serve. In this regard, he stated that the Church in the next five year intends to do more than before in partnering Government in its sustainable development agenda.
According to Apostle Nyamekye, the ‘Environmental Care Campaign’ is planned to be tackled in four main categories: Education, Clean-up, Community-based initiatives and other activities.
With regards to education, he said that the Church shall focus on attitudinal change as it highlights on some unhealthy practices that contribute to environmental degradation such as open defecation, noise pollution, improper disposal of waste, poor handling of pests and domestic animals, and unfriendly environmental-means of livelihood. “We shall also seek to educate our members and the general public on the existing environmental by-laws,” he stressed.
On clean-up exercise, the Chairman indicated that the approach is to instill in members the discipline to be physically responsible and involved in the care and cleaning of the environment.
Touching on community-based initiatives, the Chairman noted that various levels of the Church will be made to identify community-based initiatives related to the environment and pursue them.
To ensure the full implementation of the campaign, Apostle Nyamekye announced that the Church will carry out a bi-monthly clean-up exercises in public spaces at the district level, provide bins for all mission houses, church buildings, homes and workplaces of members. Also, there will be tree planting exercises at Church sites, mission houses and other specific areas in collaboration with the Forestry Commission, among other interventions.
The Chairman appreciated the CEO of Zoomlion Ghana Ltd, Elder Dr Joseph Siaw Agyepong, for partnering the Church to ensure the success of the campaign.
Apostle Eric Nyamekye called on Government to be committed to environmental law enforcement at all levels, provide waste bins to ensure proper disposal of waste, and to engage efficient waste management companies to ensure the prompt collection of waste from homes and communities.
The Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, commended the Church for the novel initiative, describing the Church as a “progressive church.”
"What I see this morning is a clear indication of what non-state actors like faith-based organisations can do to support the development of a nation. You have proven beyond all reasonable doubt that indeed you control 2.6 million people."
"We all sit on the sidelines and admire The Church of Pentecost; it is a truth universally acknowledged because of the disciplined and the responsible behaviour of the church members. This is very worthy of emulation by other churches and all of us in Ghana."
Indeed, The Church of Pentecost has shown that you are very active and responsible citizens
I Will Build My Church - 2019 Theme
The 2019 theme of The Church of Pentecost is: "I Will Build My Church" taken from Matthew 16:18; Titus 2:13-14.
It was unveiled by the Chairman of the Church, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, at the 2018 November Heads' Meeting underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), at Gomoa Fetteh on Wednesday.
Next year's theme, according to the Chairman, is the first part of Vision 2023, with the overarching theme, "Possessing the Nations: Equipping the Church to transform every sphere of society with values and principles of the Kingdom of God." The five-year strategic vision of the Church was unveiled on Monday, November 12, 2018.
"This theme is to help awaken Ministers, local leaders and the entire church towards freshness in our worship life and to march out in the power of the Holy Spirit to possess the nations with the values and principles of the Kingdom of God," he stressed.
Explaining the purpose of the 2019 theme, Apostle Nyamekye mentioned that the theme is to "help bring to the fore the understanding of the dual identity of the Church; that the Church is called out of the world to belong to God and sent back to the world to witness about Christ and serve humanity."
He stated that for the members 'to go' and the Church 'to send' as Jesus commands in John 20:21, "there is the need for freshness in our understanding of the Church as the Embassy of God's Kingdom, expected to be a true representative of God by bringing transformation not only to communities but to the nations."
According to him, if the Church is able to rediscover its identity as originally given by God in the scriptures, and made alive and relevant by the Spirit of God, "we could be in the most exciting times in the history of the Church."
He explained that everything depends on the Christians' ability to understand the Church as it ought to be, on their willingness to change where necessary, and their determination to keep their lives continually opened to spiritual freshness.
The energy then derived, he noted, could help believers to do more for the Kingdom of God, saying, "…the transformation of the society cannot take place without the transformation of the Church," this is because society will listen to the testimony of a credible Church, a Church living out the values and the principles of Christ.
According to Apostle Nyamekye, The Church of Pentecost both nationally and internationally has become a respected institution following the great work done by the founding fathers and the great leaders it has had over the years.
He however stated: "When we march our achievements with the standards set by the early church (Acts 2:42-47), and what God can do through us; we come to the realization that there is more to be done."
Drink Deep From The River of God - Chairman
The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye has called on Christians to aspire for spiritual maturity and to yearn for a deeper relationship with God. Apostle Eric Nyamekye said this when he addressed participants of the 2018 edition of the Messianic Encounter Conference dubbed "MEC2018" organised by the Pentecost International Worship Centre in the La Area (PIWC-Kokomlemle). The event was held under the theme: Overflow.
Speaking on the topic: "The River of God", Apostle Nyamekye quoted Psalm 46:4, Psalm 87, Genesis 2:6-14, Psalm 65:9 and Jeremiah 2:13, among several other scriptures, to stress that the River of God is found in the presence of God. He further explained that, in the Old Testament, the River of God was in the city of Jerusalem because God dwelled among the Israelites. He explained that due to the covenant God had with the Israelites, the Israelites regarded themselves as superior to the other people of the earth, whom they labelled as slurs or gentiles.
Apostle Nyamekye noted that because of the new covenant of God through Christ there is now a new order which grants both believing Jews and non-Jews equal access to the River of God, adding that it is the union of believing Jews and Gentiles which has culminated into the Church of God ( Hebrews 12:22-24, 1 Corinthians 10:32).
The Chairman said that when one becomes a believer, God deposits "His water" (His presence, His anointing, Holy Spirit) in them, and they are to ensure that the water deposited in them wells up and flows through them to positively affect the lives of those around them.
Apostle Nyamekye noted that the "water of God" in the Christian makes the carrier glad and must also extend to become a blessing to others.
Quoting Ezequiel 47:1-12, he further explained that Christians whose water level (anointing) is only ankle deep are murmurers and always complain about things around them unlike those whose water level has risen to knee deep. Christians whose water level is at waist deep, he said, fear God and are always focused on Him, hence, they always strive do His will.
He explained that when the water rises above the waist and overflows then it becomes a river of God and thus flows beyond the carrier to give life to others wherever it flows.
Apostle Eric Nyamekye, therefore, charged Christians to keep to the source of the living water, God, and drink deep from the water of life through constant study of the word of God and prayer. He cautioned them not to only seek material things in their walk with God, but above all else, seek a deeper relationship with Him. He also advised them to make a positive impact wherever they find themselves by living up to their Christian standards.
"God is looking for people through whom His living water would flow so that those around them would be curious to know how they could also access the water of life," he said.
Apostle Ntumy Public Library Inaugurated
A special event was held on Thursday, June 28, 2018, to inaugurate the ultramodern Apostle Ntumy Public Library at Osramani, Kete-Krachi in the Volta Region of Ghana.
The library, which was inaugurated by the Chairman-Elect of The Church of Pentecost (COP), Apostle Eric Nyamekye, is a world-class facility fully automated and accessible from all over the world.
It has 1,070 million online books, 128,000 e-books (electronic books), 7,000 audiobooks, 4,000 video books, and hundreds of documentary movies.
The Apostle Ntumy Public Library is also equipped with 50 computers uploaded with digital, audio and video books for all categories of people - primary, secondary, tertiary levels and beyond.
In addition, it has 20 computers for computer literacy for students and the public as well as free internet access for research works.
The 32,000 books stocked in the library include famous English Literature books, textbooks from primary to tertiary levels, Biographies, Fiction/Science Fiction, Philosophy, Encyclopedias, Theology and contemporary Christian books, among others.
The library was constructed at a total cost of GH₵ 256,121.00 by the former Chairman of the Church, Apostle Dr Michael Ntumy, with support from COP–Headquarters, Teshie Nungua Area, and some benevolent individuals including Apostle F. K. Andoh, Apostle K. E. Agbavitoh, Pastor Ben Mensah, Pastor Kwasi Appiah, Elder Samuel Amo Tobbin, Elder Alfred and Mrs. Doris Quaynor (Teshie-Nungua Area), Mr. George and Mrs. Theodora Arthur, Mr. Benjamin and Mrs. Veronica Blankson (COP-Hamburg), and Mr. Peter Asiedu (CEO, Aki-Ola Publications), who diversely contributed to the project.
In his inaugural address, Apostle Dr Ntumy attributed the falling standards of education in the country to the inability of many students in Junior High Schools to express themselves or write in the English Language. According to him, this has culminated in the very poor grades of students in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).
As an individual, I identified the inability of students to read and understand the English Language as the mother of all their schooling problems. The plain fact, however, is that the English Language can only be learned through reading. The acquisition of vocabularies, various phrases, literary forms and styles, are all mostly derived through reading. Hence, the importance of reading cannot be overemphasised. But how can people read without books?” he stated.
Apostle Dr. Ntumy, who currently serves as the Director of Literary works of The Church of Pentecost, noted that although the rhetoric explanation that is usually given by some students who are unable to read is that they do not have the time, it is the plight of those who are unable to read due to their inability to access books (because they do not have the means to either buy or borrow them) that moved him to initiate this noble cause.
Apostle Dr Ntumy also shared how he was able to change his academic life simply by reading more books.
"When I entered college at age 15, I was amazed to see thousands of books in the library. I had enough to read to satisfy my huge appetite for reading. Besides researching on our usual class modules I read a new book almost every week."
Apart from the knowledge so gained, I delighted myself in the different writing styles, expressions, phrases, and idioms of the various writers. In speech and writing, I always tried to put those expressions into use that very day.
With time some of my college mates began spreading the news around that my academic prowess was derived from some "juju" or occultism. They did not know that it all began with reading, reading, reading,” he narrated. Apostle Dr Ntumy, who is himself a native of Osramani, was hopeful that the students within Osramani and surrounding towns would put the facility to good use by patronizing it. He also revealed plans of establishing similar libraries in other towns and cities as a means of encouraging
Make Use Of Every Opportunity – Chairman Nyamekye Tells Christians
The new Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Kwabena Nyamekye, has advised Christians to seize every opportunity that comes their way because time is not always available.
He spoke on the theme, “Opportunity” based on Matthew 25:1-25 about the parable of the three servants who were given different talents to work with according to their ability while the master was away
"For you to be an effective business person, you need money and ability. When you have the money without ability, you cannot succeed. The master gave the servants the talents according to their ability or gift," the Chairman said.
He mentioned that the master gave the servants money and expected them to use it according to their abilities to produce results upon his return, which they all did except the third servant who did not make use of the opportunity given to him and ended up losing everything else.
"Abilities differ but success is for all. Before anyone is born the days ordained for him is known, and the days or birth comes with your purpose," he said, adding, “Ability is the might or strength of an individual and that one ability cannot control the whole, we all need one another.
"What they [the three servants] had in common was not the ability or money; what they had in common was time.
"In the parable of the virgins, what caused the oil to run out was not a leakage but the course of time. There was nothing extraordinary about the five virgins the Bible called 'wise' apart from the fact that they understood the time. All the ten virgins slept, heard the sound and woke up. The extra oil would not have mattered without the course of time."
Apostle Eric Nyamekye disclosed that time is a mystery, and it is about the past, present and the future of every person, saying, "Once you live under the dictates of the sun and moon, you will undergo the effects of it."
"Nothing grows better under the sun. We are all changing because of time. If you want to stay fresh, you have to work very hard," he pointed out.
Outlining the functions of time, he indicated that time is a governor which must be respected. He also said that time is an opportunity, a gift and uncompromising.
"A gift has been given to us to govern the earth. Time presents chances and prospects for things to happen. Time and chances are for all but when you have strength, it is an opportunity," he added.
The Chairman gave reasons why believers have to seize opportunities that come their way. This is because time is too short, there is time for everything but there is no time for all things; opportunity is not always available and it is not permanent and finally, an opportunity seized is the basis of reward.
"Take action but when you are taking action, be careful because at the end of the day you will defend your actions before God. You were not born to do all things, so do what you have the opportunity to do now," he said.
Touching on the factors that fight against opportunities, the Chairman identified fear of men, inability to exert one’s self on a given task, lack of concentration on the task and delays.
"You can delay certain things and you won’t be able to recover them. When an opportunity presents itself, take action. If it is work, do it and if it is marriage, marry well. We can change our world, possess our nation. You have an opportunity and you must take action,” Apostle Eric Nyamekye said as he concluded with a question, “What will you be remembered for?"
"Maintain Your Salvation"-Elder Felix Adu tells Christians
Elder Felix Adu, an Executive Committee member of the church on the theme; "Maintaining our qualification for eternal life" Elder Felix Adu, enumerated some of the basic qualifications that a believer needs to possess in order to maintain the eternal life of Christ.
He quoted various Biblical texts including 1 Peter 5:10, 2 Corinthians 5:1; Hebrews 5:8 -2; Peter 1:10-11 and John 11:14, and explained that a believer must believe in Jesus Christ, His death and His resurrection. Again the believer must fully obey Jesus Christ and also, understand that the world is a transient and not our final home. He further stated that believers need to show eagerness to their calling. Elder Felix Adu entreated believers to hold on firmly to their salvation and not to depart from the feet of God by seeking the so called prophets for various forms of anointing oils at exorbitant prices which cannot guarantee their salvation or eternity.
Eternity is what we are all waiting for Elder Adu said, "If you allow this world to push you around and direct you, you will lose your qualification for salvation."
Before the end of the service "Life Cleaners" a committee that assists the church with environmental sanitation services were acknowledged and appreciated by the entire church.
The Committee Chairperson, Deaconess Ewuraba Sakyi appreciated all sponsors who provided various forms of consumables including cleaning detergents and equipment as well as those who dedicated their time to clean the church premises and called for more patronage.
The Resident Minister Pastor Jonathan Kofie further said powerful prayers for all Life Cleaners in the Church and said that cleaning is a special Ministry of the Church.
2018 Theme Revealed by The Chairman of COP
The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Professor Opoku Onyinah, has outdoored the 2018 theme of the Church.
The 2018 theme: “Remain In Christ And His Basic Message,” is chosen from 1 John 2:24-25: “See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he promised us— even eternal life.”
It was outdoored during the opening session of this year’s November Heads’ Meeting at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh on Tuesday, November 14, 2017.
The five-day event which is being attended by Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Area Heads, National Heads, Ministry Directors, among others, is a platform for the leadership of the Church to strategize for the coming year through fasting, prayer and sharing of the word of God.
Expounding on the new theme, Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah said it seeks to take the members of the Church back to the basics of their belief in Christ.
“I consider it [the 2018 theme] as most appropriate for me as I prepare to retire. Throughout my ministry, I have advocated for the poor, the needy, and the vulnerable. I hate to see pastors extracting money from these weaker ones.
“My cry has been that we must teach our members and pray with them so that they are not used as prey by false prophets and teachers. I am worried to see people moving from one place to another seeking help from ‘savage wolves’, whereas they have churches and pastors,” he said.
The Chairman explained that the apostle John wrote the letter to the church for them to know that they had eternal life (1 John 5:13). He said John wanted the Christians to know that the word that they had preached to them was the real word of God full of eternal life.
According to him, John wanted to assure them that indeed Jesus was God who came down to the world. “He came as a human being, he saw him, touched him and fellowshipped with him. He died and was resurrected. Believing in Him offers one eternal life. They had received the Holy Spirit (anointing), and did not need any other person, claiming to have superior knowledge to teach them,” he stressed.
John’s message, he explained, is similar to what is going on in the world now, saying, “The gospel message is simple, but people still want something bigger, stricter, complicated and mysterious than the gospel we preach. There is nothing apart from this basic message.
“I believe that the tenets of The Church of Pentecost carry this simple message of the gospel. It is my desire that as we digest it and pray on it, we will touch the spirit of the ‘letter’ so that we will minister life to our people. Teaching it alone is not enough. We must eat the word and let it grow in us to become part of us so that we will be able to minister life to people.
“Many people can minister the word of God at its lowest level. That is preaching for people to understand. We must preach for the preaching to lead to repentance and action that will lead to others glorifying God with their bodies and substances.
“In view of this, I would like us to have time in the meeting to pray and worship the Lord as these are essential parts of our Pentecostal spirituality. It is hoped that through these exercises we will have a deeper fellowship with the Lord that will yield to the brokenness of hardened hearts, in order for us to serve Him well.”
COP Member Wins 2016 National Best Entrepreneur Award
Hon. Dr. Nii Kotei Dzani, a member of the Adenta Estate Worship Centre in the Madina Area of The Church of Pentecost, has been adjudged the 2016 National Overall Best Entrepreneur, for his exceptional contributions towards Ghana’s socio-economic development.
Dr. Kotei Dzani is a Member of the Council of State and the President of Groupe Ideal.
The annual awards ceremony which seeks to reward excellence among the most committed entrepreneurs and corporate executives, took place last Saturday, 29th April, 2017, organised by Entrepreneurs Foundation of Ghana (EFG) in association with Omnibank and endorsed by the Ministries of Trade and Industry and Finance.
The award was presented to him by the former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings.
Dr. Dzani in his response admonished the youth to build up good attitudes and integrity to succeed in entrepreneurship. “Success indeed comes with hard work. It has not been an easy journey in my career as an entrepreneur. This story is endless and surely will be told one day to inspire many. It was never a smooth experience. However, with hard work, determination, perseverance and by the grace of God, I am where I am today,” he added.
Dr. Dzani is an entrepreneur and businessman par excellence, with extensive business experience as an economist and business owner with a proven record of a successful entrepreneur. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from the University of Cape Coast, an MBA in Corporate Governance and Finance from the University of Hull, England and an Honorary Doctorate from the Oral Roberts University, Oklahoma, USA. He is currently undertaking a professional law degree.
The companies that form this spectrum include: Ideal Finance, First Trust Savings and Loan, Ideal Capital Partners, TV Africa, Ideal Pension Trust, Ideal Asset Solutions, Taste Foundation, Westfield Offshore Consult and many others. He is such a generous man and has supported the Church in diverse ways.
Chairman Dedicates PUC Central Church Building
The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost (COP), Apostle Professor Opoku Onyinah, has commended members of the PUC Central Assembly in the Odorkor Area for their generous contribution towards the construction of its new church building.
Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah said this yesterday [April 21, 2017] when he officiated the dedication ceremony to officially open the church building, situated near the Pentecost University College at Sowutuom in Accra. He was ably assisted by the Odorkor Area Head, Apostle Johnson Agyemang-Baduh.
Members of the church contributed over 50% of the total cost of the project, which is valued at GH¢ 919,725.69. Other sources of funding for the project were grants from the Headquarters, the Area, and the Pentecost University College, as well as donations from benevolent individuals including the immediate-past Odorkor Area Head, Prophet James Osei Amaniampong, who is currently the Area Head of Teshie-Nungua.
Delivering a short history of the assembly, the Local Secretary, Elder Emmanuel Danso, said that the church began with 60 members headed by the Late Elder Anim Sampong. The late Elder Isaac Koranteng, and his wife, Deaconess Constance Koranteng, wholeheartedly gave up their residence as a temporary place of worship for the assembly.
The PUC Central church building project was initiated in 2009, however, due to some land litigation issues, the foundation stone was laid a year later by the then Area Head, Prophet James Osei Amaniampong, assisted by the then District Minister, Pastor Michael Ofori.
The assembly, then under Sowutuom District, was later made the central assembly of the newly-created PUC District in 2011 under the leadership of the current District Minister, Pastor Emmanuel Frimpong, who continued the project in earnest until its successful completion
“Do not sit down unconcerned whilst many people die every minute without Christ. Do the work of evangelism with passion. Remember to preach the gospel even in the midst of revival as Jesus did. Whilst all the people were looking for Him, He left for another place with the gospel.
Present at the service were the area pastorate and their wives as well as some past and present officers of the PUC district.
Evangelism Director Advocates Aggressive Evangelism
The Director of the Evangelism Ministry of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Amos Jimmy Markin, has called on Christians to make every effort to embark on aggressive evangelism to help rescue the unsaved souls from the kingdom of Satan and darkness, and bring them into the Kingdom of God and the light.
Apostle Jimmy Markin said this when addressing Evangelism Ministry Leaders in Twifo Zone at Twifo Praso in the Assin Foso Area on Thursday, April 20, 2017.
Preaching on the topic, “Greater Works” based on John 6:28-29; 14:12; Mark 1:14-15, 32-38 and Romans 1:16-17, he explained that when Jesus Christ came into the world, He revealed in the Synagogue at Nazareth that His mandate was “to preach the gospel to the poor, to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives and bring recovery of sight to the blind, to set those who are bruised free and to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.”
The Evangelism Director noted that being the examples and representatives of Jesus Christ on earth, Christians are to focus all their attention on preaching the gospel at all times, both in season and out of season, since that is the greatest commission.
He bemoaned the attitude of the majority of today’s Christians who, instead of carrying the gospel to the people, rather sit comfortably in their churches and direct people to where they are.
Apostle Jimmy Marking further stated: “The greatest work Jesus has assigned to us (Christians) is to cultivate the habit of preaching the gospel. Miracles follow those who reach out to the unsaved because God confirms His Word with signs and wonders.
“Do not sit down unconcerned whilst many people die every minute without Christ. Do the work of evangelism with passion. Remember to preach the gospel even in the midst of revival as Jesus did. Whilst all the people were looking for Him, He left for another place with the gospel.
“Go beyond your comfort zone and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, knowing for sure that it is the power of God unto salvation to all those who believe. For in it is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith, because the just shall live by faith.”
Earlier, the Secretary of the Evangelism Ministry National Executive Committee, Pastor Ohene-Asa Otu, took the participants through some topics in evangelism such as “God’s Plan For Salvation,” “Discipleship and Its Methods,” and “The 7 Essentials Aspects Discipleship Focusses On,” among others.
Present at the programme were Pastor Michael Antwi-Boasiako (Zonal Chairman), Pastor Isaac Joe Adusei and his wife, as well as other ministers in the Twifo Zone.
PIWC SAKUMONO CELEBRATES WOMEN’S WEEK
The Women’s Ministry of the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC Sakumono) has undertaken
a number of activities to mark the Women's Ministry week, an annual event of the chruch. These
included a panel discussion on the topic "Being a good steward on Finances, Marriage and Children.
Hosted by Deaconess Christiana Mensah, other panelists included, Elder Martin Doku,Chairman of Marriage Committee, Elder Edward Appiah –Brafoh, District Executive Member, Deaconess Mabel Mettle and Deaconess Isabella Orhin.
Others activities Thanksgiving Day, drama, visit to the inmates of the Sakumono and Baatsonaa Police cells with food and other gift items and song ministration by the PIWC Sakumono Women’s Ministry Choir.
In a sermon to climax the activities last Sunday, the wife of the Resident Minister, Mrs. Regina Kofie urged all Christian women to use their talents wisely.
“A good steward works in season and out of season, adding “There is a race marked out for us which we
do not have to miss,” she said adding, “You need not take somebody’s track as well,”
Quoting Hebrew 12: 1 she said all the saints gone before us are part of the great cloud of witnesses, who are cheering us on in this race marked out for us.
Mrs. Kofie said Christians must serve God when they are strong and energetic asking "What are you doing now with your talents?"
She said a day is coming when Jesus will no longer sit on the throne of Grace but rather on the throne of Judgment adding, "The grace period will pass away." She urged the women to do whatever they can to make the House of God lively and to bring more souls to the Lord. "Know where you are and where you are heading towards in this race," she said.
The district leader Deaconess Joyce Owiredu Okyere was grateful to the women for their participation in the activities. He urged them to prepare to participate in an upcoming food bazaar on December 4, 2015.
TESHIE -NUNGUA AREA SUPPORTS FLOOD VICTIMS
The Teshie-Nungua Area has supported members in the church who were badly affected in the June 3 rainstorm. Some of the members’ homes were flooded with water leading to loss of personal belongings and vacation of their homes.
At a recent Area Presbytery Meeting, the Area head Prophet James Osei-Amaniampong said it is important the Area supports the flood victims to restore them back to their lives.
He said it is the duty of the church to care for its member’s welfare and even be concerned about the welfare of non-Christians. He said it is the expectation of our Lord Jesus Christ that the Church supports members in need as the early church practiced. In all 28 members of the church from various districts were presented with cash raging from GHC 800 to GHC 1,500 and other sums depending on the severity or the impact of the damage by the flooding on the respective member.
They were also given in addition to the cash, between three to five pieces of wax prints or cloth each among other items fit for both male and female.
During the last area presbytery meeting 28 members of the church in TN area we given some assistance by the area though the initiative of the area head.
Reading from Luke 10:30ff, Prophet Amaniampong expressed appreciation to the entire church for their generous contribution towards the project He again encouraged the leadership of the church to be good neighbours and assist those in need.
He again thanked the three-member committee who planned the entire programme Ps Eric Gyambibi Boateng for their commitment to the work. In all the Area Spent GHC 45,000 on the flood victims.
PIWC SAKUMONO WELCOMES PASTOR JONATHAN KOFIE AND FAMILY
A welcome service has been held in honour of Pastor Jonathan Kofie, his wife Regina and family at PIWC Sakumono on Sunday the 16th day of August 2015. In attendance were Pastor Samuel Kwamena Bram, Area Secretary for Teshie- Nungua, Pastor Ayisi Mensah, friends and some church members from Winneba and family members of the pastor and his wife.
In a sermon Pastor Kwamena Bram read from Joshua 1:1-9 where he admonished Pastor Jonathan to be courageous, firm and aggressive in his Ministry. He said God is seeking and honoring humility and patience, and God is equally interested in a person who uses his or her gifting to profit both God and the world.
He encouraged Pastor Kofie to take God by his word, to be strong, courageous and diligent all his endeavours. You should make Gods’ word your guide, study and mediate on the word of God day and night as well as seek God earnestly on all issues.”
He also challenged him to lead in the Building of an ultra-Modern church building which is on the drawing board. “Where we are worshipping now is the Youth Auditorium, You are going to lead in the building of the real church building,” Pastor Bram charge Pastor Kofie.
In response, Pastor Jonathan Kofie quoted from 2 Samuel 10: 12 where he admonished every member of the PIWC sakumono congregation to put his or her hands on the wheel so as to move the work of God and follow him as he discharges his duties henceforth at PIWC, Sakumono.
The Resident Choir of PIWC Sakumono and Winneba district congregations and some individuals ministered through various inspiring Songs. Life Theater also gave a wonderful performance and poetry recitals to welcome the new Pastor and his family.
Teshie-Nungua Area Medical School opens
The Area Head of Teshie –Nungua Church of Pentecost Prophet James Osei Amaniampong has opened a special medical school aimed at educating members on their health as well as giving them the opportunity to be screened for various health conditions.
The five day medical school is being held simultaneously at five centres across the area. These include the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC Sakumono), Glory Temple, Sakumono District, Holy Ghost Temple, Ledzokuku District, Macedonia Assembly in the Nshorna District and Peniel Assembly in the Baatsonaa District.
Opening the school at PIWC Sakumono last Monday, Prophet Amaniampong said being in good health is very essential in the life of every human being. He said “As our lifestyles improves, our health also improves and we experience less diseases an sicknesses.” Prophet Amanaimpong believes that factors such as nutrition, stress coping mechanisms, good relationship and physical activity also improves health, hence the varied selection of speakers for the medical school.
"It is generally acknowledged that the health of a person is the a state of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or informality," Prophet Amaniampong said adding, "Your health is important to God that is why he created you healthy and in times of sickness, he is the Lord our healer."
Prophet Amaniampong explained that Jesus was very compassionate about the sick in his earthly ministry and healed diseases and infirmities. "It is therefore the responsibility of the church to adopt a holistic approach to health and development of her members, recognizing that physical, emotional, social, environmental and spiritual factors play a part in the well-being of individuals and communities."
"Being healthy, also means that your body, mind and spirit functioning as God intends them to function," he said.
Quoting Francis Beacon, Prophet Amaniampong said “Knowledge is Power. "He also quoted Hosea 4:6 which states that for lack of knowledge, my people perish."
"I believe that most of the diseases and infirmities that trouble us can be avoided if we have the right knowledge of how to take care of ourselves," he said adding, "This school is intended to do that."
The school is featuring seasoned doctors including Dr. Prosper K Moh, An Orthopaedic Surgeon from St John of God Hospital Duayaw Nkwanta in the Brong -Ahafo Region; Elder Dr. Ken Aboah, a Urologist Consultant and a Barrister at Law; Elder Dr. Joseph osafo, a Clinical Psychologist and Sociologist; Deaconess Dr. Constance Bart- Plange, epidemiologist and Malariologist; Dr. Mrs. Agnes Asare, an Obstetrics/ Gynecologist from Tarkwa Church of Pentecost.
Dr. Prosper K Moh gave a lecture on waist pains and how to protect the spine from everyday activities that eventually causes pain to various parts of the body. The doctors will also hold clinics at the various centres in the mornings for members who need counselling and advice as well as treatment for their various conditions but have no knowledge on how to access such specialist healthcare.
2015 All Officers Retreat Opens at PCC
The 2015 annual All Officers Retreat for the Teshie Nungua Area Church of Pentecost is underway at the Pentecost Convention Centre, Gomoa Fetteh. The four -day event is being attended by all Pastors and their wives, Elders, Deacons deaconesses as well as Ministry leaders and church workers in the area. Opening the Retreat, the Area Head Prophet James Osei Amaniampong said everybody can be a steward but not all can be good stewards. He said Christians should strive to be good stewards to their neighbours and serve them in the fear of the Lord, adding, "A steward must be faithful, trustworthy, loyal and full of integrity,"
Prophet Amaniampong quoted various passages from the Bible including I Corinthians 4:1-2 as well as Exodus 19:5 to support his message to the people. He explained that a steward is someone who owns nothing but takes good care of property entrusted to him or her by a wealthy person. "The world and everything in it, including human beings belong to our rich father in heaven," he said adding, "What do you have in your hand that God did not give to you." He said the Apostle Peter in his ministry tasked the saints to use their gifts to serve one another in the church as good stewards. According to Prophet Amaniampong, Stewards should lay aside self interest and think about the welfare of the master or the one whose property has been entrusted into their care.
"Let us be good stewards, eshew tribal tendencies and nepotism and have a good judgment for all the people entrusted into our care", he said.
He congratulated the officers in the area for their prompt response to the meeting and their passion and zeal for the Lord’s work. The occasion was also used to premiere a documentary on stewardship in leadership which catalogues the Area’s vision and ongoing projects and activities.
Produced by award winning Journalist and broadcaster, Peggy Ama Donkor, the hour long documentary thrilled its audience with clips of old stewards of the church like Apostle Fred Stephen Sarfo, A. T Nartey among others all of blessed memory and some contemporary voices including the chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Aposlte Dr. Opoku Onyinah and Apostle Johnson Agyeman Badu of Odorkor Area.
Worship is serving your neighbour - Apostle Dr. Opoku Onyina
The Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr. Opoku Onyina has asked Christians to examine their lives to ascertain if they are stewards of their neighbours.
He has therefore called on Christians to serve one another whilst supporting and helping those in need. "If you serve your neighbour well, it means you are worshipping God," he said adding "Worship is serving your neighbour"
Apostle Dr. Opoku Onyina said these when he delivered a sermon on Christian stewardship to mark the annual "We care Day at the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) Sakumono in the Teshie Nungua Area of the church. "We care Day" is a day set aside by the church to sensitize members on the importance of caring for the poor and the needy in their communities.
Throwing more light on the parable of the talents, Apostle Dr. Opoku Onyina quoted Mathew 25:14-30 among various biblical texts and explained that God is the master who owns the whole universe while Christians are the stewards of the universe. Each Christian has been given a talent, which is the knowledge God gives to people about His kingdom and the ability to establish the kingdom here. "When the Almighty gives you a talent he expects the talent to multiply, this means that you must show a great sense of responsibility, you must be trustworthy and simple," he said. According to him, a neighbour is the one who lives in any one’s community, home, school office etc.
"You are the steward of your neighbour, your neighbour is the person who needs that help from you, your duty is to assist one another while leaving the judgment to God," he reiterated.
Apostle Dr. Opoku Onyina explained that as the world is advancing, technology is taking over the jobs of many people leaving in its wake a lot of people who are suffering and needs to be touched by the love of Christ. "Go and comfort that person." He said neighbours could be bosses, colleagues at work, friends, and people at the market or malls among others.
He urged all to treat neighbours especially young people well since they are the future leaders. Apostle Dr. Opoku Onyina who is also the President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) congratulated the Resident pastor and the leadership of the PIWC Sakomono, the choir and all the church members for their dedication and zeal for the lord.
He also paid tribute to Prophet J. E Ameyaw under whose administration an English church started which later became the Worship Centre. He pledged to visit the church regularly and fellowship with them.
The Resident Pastor of PIWC Sakumono Pastor Christian Tsekpoe was grateful to the chairman for his visit to the Church.
Mr. Kofi Asante, a member of the church could not hide his feelings at the chairman’s visit. "I was so happy, I wanted to get close to take a photograph of him, I just did not know how to express my joy, but his visit certainly made our day."
Students urged not to depend solely on Internet
An Elder of the Church of Pentecost, Edward Appiah- Brafoh has urged students to be wary of information from the internet which has no trusted sources.
He said students should not depend solely on the internet for their studies but use text books as well. "Students who want to do research using the internet should look out for academic websites and trusted sources for their studies," he said
Elder Appiah-Brafoh said this during a panel discussion on the topic "Planning your life with the Messiah" which was part of the activities marking the Christmas convention of the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) Sakumono in the Teshie-Nungua Area. The Convention was under the theme "We have found the Messiah" taken from John1: 41.
Elder Appiah –Brafoh who is a Human Resource and Communications Specialist said a lot of people put up information on the internet but not all of them are helpful to the students in their academic training. On the preparation towards job interviews, Elder Appiah –Brafoh urged candidates to go prepared. "Employers look out for candidates with great commitment, consistency, good attitude and knowledge," he explained further.
Another panel member who is the Chief Executive Officer of Impact Homes, Emmanuel Som Appiah said students who want to be entrepreneurs have to develop a relentless attitude, be diligent and focused on what they want to do. He also said they have to depend on God for directions. He advised the youth and the students not to focus only on one business but develop their talents alongside their skills to earn addition all incomes. "Even though I was trained as a teacher I also attained a certificate as a coach and a referee which at a point in my life helped me to survive," he said.
Deaconess Juliana Amekpor, a Director of Maxi Tours asked young and upcoming entrepreneurs to do the right things to grow their businesses. She urged them to respect their staff, treat their clients well by giving them alternatives and quick answers to their questions, and develops excellent people management skills. She said Maxi Tours has come a long way from its humble beginnings at Accra New Town to its current office location in Asylum Down.
Miss Suzie Doku, a young Banker urged students to who want to enter into banking to write applications even before leaving the universities and trust the Lord to help them find great jobs without compromising on their Christian faith.
She said Working in the bank requires transparency, truthfulness and focus as well as the grace of God to help one to succeed.
The District Pastor of the Church Pastor Christian Tsekpoe said it was important for Christians to see Christ in all their activities, be they students who want to work in banks and other institutions or entrepreneurs who want to establish their own businesses. "Jesus must be part of all these, we should never leave him behind," he said.
Earlier the Christmas convention was opened with great Music drama, various performances and choreography. It was heavily attended by both church members, and people from nearby churches. Hosted by Life Impact the Resident Choir of PIWC Sakumono, the annual ceremony dubbed Life Praise also saw the leading gospel musician Akese Brempong performing. Others who sang in the night and during the convention included Deacon Fred Sarfo, Kwabena Asante, Comfort Kwofie, Suzzie Doku , Lois Amaniampong, Olivia Tornu, the SWAG City Crew among others.
Christian Leaders urged to be compassionate and cheerful
The Country Director of the Global Leadership Summit, Reverend Philip Kofi Tutu has urged Christian leaders to be humble and compassionate towards the people they serve.
Rev. Tutu said compassion is a key asset in leadership.
He was speaking at the first graduation of the Leadership School of Excellence (LSE) of the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC Sakumono), on the topic "What it takes to be a great Leader."
Rev. Tutu said leadership is the ability to influence a group of people either positively or negatively and not necessarily titles or positions.
"You can have a big title, but that does not mean you are a leader," he said He explained that the average people influences at least four people in a day, he said adding, "You are a leader wherever you find yourself, change something positively for Christ wherever you go."
He said Nehemiah was driven by a spirit of compassion when he heard about the situation of the Israelites and quickly acted to change the situation.
According to Rev. Tutu, the church is the hope of the world, not governments or political parties. "The people in the church are the hope of the world," he said adding, "Do something for the world."
He urged Christian leaders to exhibit a character of cheerfulness adding, “Smiles are very contagious and leaders should be exited about their work and be cheerful themselves so they can impact their colleagues.
Rev. Tutu also asked Christian leaders to live a life of concentration, finish whatever they start or begin and be creative s well.
Leaders according to him must also be courageous in order to innovate and initiate activities.
In all 28 students graduated with certificates in Leadership awarded by the Church.
The Resident Pastor of the Church Christian Tsepkoe announced that the church has been selected as one for the Global centres for leadership studies by the TEACH EVERY NATION (TEN) PROJECT and as such studies will begin in earnest on 21st March 2015, at the PIWC chapel. Certificates will be awarded by the centre headquartered in the United States and urged all Christians living around Sakumono or who can be able to attend to participate in the courses since leaders are needed in all spheres of life.
The Head of the School, Elder Gilbert Asante congratulated the students for their dexterity in participating in eight or more out of the 12 leadership schools activities. Leadership school is held every Monday after Lord’s Supper at the church with various leadership topics addressed by key personalities drawn from within and outside the church. Some of the lecturers for the 2014 PIWC Leadership school included, Professor Gyasi Adjei of the Pentecost university College, Prof. Stephen Adei, former Rector of GIMPA, Prof. Kwame Boasiako Omane Antwi , Vice Rector of PUC and President of Institute of Chartered Accountant (ICA) and his wife Victoria, Elder Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, a politician, Elder Innocent Ocansey , a businessman and Pastor Christian Tsekpoe, the Resident pastor among others.
Let's be meek in our service to the Lord and nation-Dr. Siaw Agyepong
The Executive Chairman of Jospong Group of Companies, Dr. Joseph Saw Agyepong has urged Christians to be gentle and meek in their service to the Lord and the nation at large.
He said it has reached a time that Christians have to be gentle and calm, rest and let the Lord fight their battles for them.
Dr. Agyepong was speaking at the Teshie Nungua Area Women's Ministry grand meeting to mark the 2014 National Women's week celebration at the Nungua Central Chapel of Church of Pentecost.
"Aggression will not take us anywhere, it would rather multiply our troubles and sorrows, we must be gentle like the lamb that was slain." Dr. Agyepong said, adding, "Our victory does not depend on our strong physique nor our eloquence, intelligence or our ability to debate the issues to clear ourselves, but rather the favour and grace of God that will take us through our hard times."
He quoted John 10:1-5 which states, "Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice."
Dr. Agyepong, who is an Elder of the church said, the good shepherd leads his sheep and the sheep knows His voice. He enumerated the characteristics of the sheep which Christians should emulate. He said the sheep is calm, gives thought about every step, vulnerable and therefore dependent on the shepherd.
He said Christians should follow the good shepherd and listen to His voice and not follow strange voices thy do not know. He also asked Christians to stop murmuring and complaining due to the hardships they face in life. "The devil will take you through challenges, but if we behave like sheep we will be able to stand." He said.
"Sometimes Christians out of frustration follow any voice at all even though they know it is not their master's voice," he said adding, "we should be patient and gentle like he sheep and not aggressive like goats and follow our master Jesus who is the good shepherd."
Supporting Dr. Agyepong, the Area Head of the Teshie-Nungua Church of Pentecost, Prophet James Osei Amaniampong said meekness is priceless and urged all the church members to be focused in their walk with the Lord. Prophet Amaniampong also led the church in a prayer session to strengthen them in their walk with the Lord.
The Teshie-Nugua Area Women's leader, Deaconess Ellen Tetteh was grateful to the Area Head, all pastors, Dr. Agyepong and the entire women's ministry for their active participation in the Week long activities.
Pray on your own - Director urges women
The Director of the Women's Ministry of Church of Pentecost, Deaconess Lucy Grace Yeboah - Asuamah has called on women to pray on their own and intensify their prayers to solve their problems instead of moving from one prayer house to the other with all its attendant problems.
Mama Yeboah-Asuamah also said if prayers said earlier appear not to have worked, the only solution is to change to a "higher gear" and engage the heavens and the almighty God will meet you at the point of your need."
Mama Yeboah-Asuamah was speaking at the Teshie Nungua Area Women's Ministry meeting held as part of the National Women's Week celebration from the 3rd November 2014.
"God has a special role for women to play in society and as such women should persevere in prayer as Hannah did prophets that ever lived in the person of Prophet Samuel.
Historically, she said Pastor James Mckweon, the founder of the Church of Pentecost in Ghana used women to build and grow the church.
"This is our generation and ask yourself what you are doing to impact the next generation," she said.
She said women should also learn to appreciate what their fellow women are doing in the church. She encouraged the women to receive students won through the ministry of Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA) into the church after they graduate from the various universities.
"Our children may bring them from their schools, they are souls they won while they were on campus, their parents may not be necessarily Christians and we need to do a lot to help them stay under the feet of Jesus." She advised.
Mama Yeboah-Asuamah also urged the women to have teachable spirits, admit their mistakes, respect their leaders and continue to build the church for Christ.
The Area Women's leader Mrs. Ellen Tetteh also urged the women to pray without ceasing to support the spiritual work going on in the Area and also to impact the next generation with intensive prayers, mentoring and counseling.
Serve your churches well, Mabel Darko urges women leaders
Mrs. Mabel Darko, wife of the Financial and Administrative Director of the Church of Pentecost, Pastor Nicholas Darko who is also the Resident pastor of Calvary Worship Centre, a district within the Teshie-Nungua Area of the Church of Pentecost, has urged Christian women to be humble, faithful, obedient and serve the church as the women in the Bible did in the early church.
"Sometimes, we want the glory and joy associated with the work as women leaders but we do not want the sacrifices and pain that we will suffer as a result of the work." Mrs. Darko said.
She was speaking at an Area women's Meeting organized as a prelude to the National Women's week celebration at the Nungua C5 Central Chapel of the Church of Pentecost.
Quoting Philippians 2:3 Mrs. Darko asked women not to consider themselves highly than their fellow women and men in ministry as Jesus our master was very humble even unto death,
She said there is a threat to humility in some churches due to selfish interests, adding, we should do everything to the glory of God, it is God who will weigh the motive behind all activities undertaken by Christians in their various ministries.
Mrs. Darko explained that as deaconesses in the Church of Pentecost, it is not enough to attend church only on Sundays. "Deaconesses should move away from their comfort zones, they should mentor the youth, attend evening programmes, set good examples, prepare Lord's Supper, clean the church auditoriums, wash rooms and arrange things in the church ." she said adding, "Each time officers are appreciated ask yourself whether you deserve the gift and whether you have served your church well from your heart."
She further asked the women to support needy people in the church as Jesus himself was compassionate, they should also avoid murmuring as the Israelites did and suffered for it in the wilderness. She said if the women are obedient, humble and have great compassion, the locals, districts, area and national churches will grow from strength to strength.
The Area Women's leader of Teshie - Nungua, Deaconess Ellen Tetteh said deaconesses of the church have been reminded of the role they play once again and urged the women leaders to continue to labour in the Lord's vineyard for the growth of the church.
Mrs. Olivia Tsekpoe, wife of the Resident Pastor of PIWC Sakumono led a special prayer session. Prayers were said for national leaders of the church, members, youth and officers.