Do you hear the echoes of faith? They resonate deeply within these walls of Kodie Christ Apostolic Church. This church stands as a testament to the enduring power of belief in Kumasi.
Kodie Christ Apostolic Church is more than bricks and mortar. It is a vibrant community. It is a beacon of hope. Its story intertwines with the larger narrative of the Christ Apostolic Church International.
The Christ Apostolic Church International’s origins trace back to Apostle Peter Anim in 1917. He founded the Faith Tabernacle Church. This later became the Christ Apostolic Church. Anim is credited with pioneering Classical Pentecostalism in Ghana. From humble beginnings in Asamankese in the Eastern Region, the church flourished. It became a mother church for Pentecostal movements nationwide. Today, the Christ Apostolic Church International boasts 3000 assemblies both in Ghana and abroad.
Anim’s journey began with an interest in “The Sword of the Spirit”. This was a Christian periodical. It led him to correspond with Pastor A. Clark. Clark founded the Faith Tabernacle Church in Philadelphia. Though non-Pentecostal, the Faith Tabernacle emphasized faith healing and holiness. Anim embraced these teachings. He experienced healing from a chronic stomach disorder and guinea worm infestation through prayer.
Born in 1890, Peter Newman Anim worked for the Basel Mission Factory. Ill health forced him to return to his hometown, Boso, in 1916. There, he married and later began his healing ministry in Asamankese in 1917. It was initially called Faith Tabernacle.
A significant turning point arrived in 1931. Through Pastor David O. Odubanjo of Nigeria, Anim connected with missionaries from the Apostolic Church of Bradford, UK. This led to a visit from Pastor George Perfect. His ministry deeply impressed Anim. Anim’s church decided to affiliate with the UK Apostolic Church.
In 1932, Stephen Owiredu experienced the Holy Spirit baptism. This event amplified Anim’s organization’s visibility. Owiredu had been praying for his sick twin baby when he had this extraordinary experience.
The chief of Asamankese, drawn to Anim’s healing and evangelistic campaigns, donated land for the first Faith Tabernacle building. During a revival meeting, both believers and non-believers reportedly saw a “Pillar of Fire” atop this building.
Healings drew many people to Anim’s group. News of recoveries spread. This strengthened Anim’s faith. Branches sprang up across southern Gold Coast and into Togoland. Anim requested a resident missionary from Bradford. In 1937, James McKeown arrived as the first Pentecostal missionary from the UK.
However, conflict arose when McKeown sought medical treatment for malaria. Anim’s followers opposed this. McKeown moved to Winneba. He later formed the Church of Pentecost.
In 1939, Anim’s group officially became the Christ Apostolic Church after a prophecy during a prayer meeting. The name “Christ” was prefixed to Apostolic Church. Anim’s CAC worked to establish itself as a Classical Pentecostal denomination in Ghana.
Registered in 1960, the Christ Apostolic Church has evolved from a small prayer group to an international Christian organization with about 2000 branch churches. The church celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2007. It boasts a membership of approximately 300,000 across Ghana and beyond. The head office is in Osu, Accra.
As you stand before Kodie Christ Apostolic Church remember its rich history. Remember the countless prayers offered within its walls. Consider the lives touched by its ministry. This place embodies faith hope and community. It stands as a beacon for generations to come.