Deep within Kaase stands the Church of Pentecost. What if I told you its story stretches far beyond these walls? The Church of Pentecost is not just a local church. It is part of a global movement. It thrives in over 151 countries. Apostle Eric Nyamekye is the current Chairman. He is the highest officer worldwide.
The Church of Pentecost’s roots go back to 1937. Rev James McKeown, a British missionary, arrived in Ghana. He was sent by the Apostolic Church of Bradford. In 1953, the church was founded as the Gold Coast Apostolic Church. Ghana gained independence in 1957. The name changed to Ghana Apostolic Church.
Conflict arose with the Apostolic Church of Ghana. Dr Kwame Nkrumah, then President, intervened. He ruled the church must adopt a new name. In August 1962, it became the Church of Pentecost. The Church of Pentecost expanded globally through missionary work. It built relationships with other Pentecostal churches. By 2022, global membership exceeded 4.2 million. This included over 1.3 million children. The Church of Pentecost had many church officers. It also had many ordained ministers. They served in numerous nations. The church continues to grow.
Let’s talk about leadership. Pastor James McKeown led from 1953 to 1982. Apostle Fred Stephen Safo followed from 1982 to 1987. Prophet Martinson Kwadwo Yeboah led from 1988 to 1998. Apostle Dr Michael Kwabena Ntumy then took over. He led from 1998 to 2008. Apostle Prof Opoku Onyinah served from 2008 to 2018. Currently, Apostle Eric Nyamekye is the Chairman. He was re-elected in 2023.
Before 1922, Christian believers in Asamankese sought the “OLD TIME POWER” of Pentecost. Rev Peter Newman Anim led them. They contacted Pastor A Clarke. He was a non-pentecostal preacher. They started the “FAITH TABERNACLE” Church. They met regularly. They fasted and prayed. They studied doctrines of the New Testament Church.
In 1930, Rev Anim connected with The Apostolics. This resulted in a new name: “APOSTOLIC FAITH”. In 1931, Rev James S Gyimah organized a revival. A prophetic message revealed God’s covenant with the church.
In 1935, Pastor George Perfect visited from the UK. He was a missionary of the Apostolic Faith. In 1937, Rev James Mckeown arrived from the UK. He became the first missionary of The Apostolic Church in the Gold Coast.
The Church of Pentecost is a testament to faith. It demonstrates resilience and growth. From its humble beginnings to its global presence. It continues to impact lives around the world. Take a moment to appreciate the devotion. Reflect on the community that thrives within the Church of Pentecost here in Kaase.