A humble beginning burgeoned into a powerful testament of faith. We are standing before Christ Apostolic Church Kotobabi. It’s a place where the echoes of history intertwine with the vibrant pulse of modern Accra.
Christ Apostolic Church International traces its roots back to 1917. Apostle Peter Anim founded it. He began with a simple prayer group in Asamankese. This small gathering grew. It became the mother of Pentecostal churches in Ghana.
Anim’s journey started with a Christian periodical. It was called “The Sword of the Spirit”. Correspondence with its editor Pastor A. Clark led Anim to embrace faith healing and holiness. These themes were new to him. He tested their efficacy. He miraculously healed himself from a chronic stomach disorder. Guinea worm infestation also vanished through prayer.
In 1931 Anim connected with missionaries from the Apostolic Church of Bradford UK. This was through Pastor David O. Odubanjo of Nigeria. Pastor George Perfect visited Asamankese. His ministry impressed Anim and his church. They affiliated with the UK Apostolic Church.
A major event amplified Anim’s organization’s reach. It was the “Holy Ghost Outpouring”. Stephen Owiredu experienced the Holy Spirit baptism in 1932. He prayed for his sick twin baby. During those prayers he experienced the Holy Spirit.
The chief of Asamankese donated land. This allowed the first Faith Tabernacle building to be built. People sighted a “Pillar of Fire” atop this building during a revival meeting. This attracted both believers and unbelievers.
Healings drew many people to Anim’s group. The news of recoveries spread. Sick people sought healing. Testimonies increased Anim’s faith. Branches emerged in towns across the Gold Coast and Togoland.
James McKeown arrived from the UK in 1937. He was the first Pentecostal missionary. However, disagreement arose over medical treatment. McKeown contracted malaria. He sought treatment. Anim’s followers felt betrayed. This led to separation.
Anim’s followers prefixed “Christ” to the name Apostolic Church in 1939. Thus, the Christ Apostolic Church was born. McKeown formed the Church of Pentecost. Anim’s CAC began establishing itself. It became a Classical Pentecostal denomination in Ghana.
The church registered in 1960. It used the name “Christ Apostolic Church”. The church has evolved. It went from a small prayer group to an international organization. Today Christ Apostolic Church International has about 3000 assemblies. These are both in Ghana and overseas. The Christ Apostolic Church celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2007. The church now boasts a membership around 300000. They are spread across Ghana and beyond.
Here at Kotobabi Assembly the spirit of Apostle Peter Anim lives on. It is in every prayer. It is in every hymn. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. Take a moment to reflect on the journey of this church. Consider its impact on countless lives.