“Non-denominational” is the word. Calvary Cross Ministry began with a vision to create such a church. It is a charismatic Pentecostal Christian church. Here, the mission is clear. The goal is to nurture committed Christians. They devote themselves to God’s word. Prayer and fellowship are vital. These are practices found in Acts 2:42. Equipping believers is essential. This prepares them to fulfill the Great Commission. It is described in Matthew 28:19-20. Jesus is the standard of faith here.
In 1984, God inspired Ps Ransford Obeng. He is the founder and Senior Pastor. God gave him a vision. The vision was to start an English church in Kumasi. Kumasi is the capital of the Ashanti Region. It would spread the good news. It would reach throughout Ghana. It would even reach the ends of the earth.
Calvary Cross Ministry officially started on April 7th, 1985. It took place at the Ministries’ Canteen in Adum. Over one hundred people attended. It was the first of its kind in Kumasi. This church offered a unique worship style. It featured contemporary Bible-based music. It was strict about timing. It valued excellence and simplicity. The leadership was modest. The teachings and programs were Christ-centered.
Pastor Ransford Obeng was directed to reach English speakers. These included residents, visitors, and students in Kumasi. He aimed to overcome cultural barriers. Ethnic differences would not matter. Socio-economic status was irrelevant. Language was no obstacle.
The church relocated from the Ministries’ Canteen. It moved to the upper floor of the Guinness Wholesales building. It was aptly named The Upper Room. After three years, it moved again. In 1990, it acquired its own permanent facility. This was in Buokrom. Construction began in May 2005 for the current facility. It is located in Ayigya. It now has over 8000 members. On April 12th, 2009, the church held its first service. This was at the new church complex.
Ps Ransford partnered with others in leadership. Together, they planted over 500 churches. These churches span all regions of Ghana. They extend beyond. This third decade saw aggressive missionary work. Local churches were established everywhere. Missionaries were also sent abroad. They went to the U.K. and the USA. They also went to Jamaica and Ivory Coast. Burkina Faso and Senegal also received missionaries.
Today, Calvary Cross Ministry continues its mission. It seeks to be a model New Testament church. It aims to bless nations. This is done in Christ Jesus. They speak blessing and truth. They live to please Christ. They love in purity. They practice true faith. They reach the unsaved. They give to missions. They make Christ the center of everything.
The church structure is based on the New Testament. All doctrines and practices come from there. Churches are organized with freedom. They operate within biblical limits. Teamwork is essential. Local churches are governed by a Local Council of Elders. Alternatively, they have a Working Committee. These groups meet monthly.
Local churches follow approved financial systems. The church lays these systems down. They are audited yearly. Regional Councils hold local branches accountable. They ensure conformity. They adhere to the church’s constitution. Calvary Cross Ministry has grown significantly. It maintains a strong vision. This vision focuses on spreading the Gospel.