Brethren at the Kumasi Central congregation in the Kumasi Working Area on July 7, 2024 were served by Lead Apostle Benjamin Ohene-Saffo. He was assisted by Apostle Osei-Du (Kumasi district), District Rectors Nantwi (Kumasi) and Arhin (Accra West) as well as Deputy District Rectors Kankam and Gyimah Boateng of the Kumasi district.

The service was based on Psalm 107:19-20 “Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, And He saved them out of their distresses. He sent His word and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.”

The Lord wants to save all!
The Lead Apostle joyfully expressed his delight in fellowship with the brethren and eagerly anticipated more of such experiences. He stated, “Our time together strengthens our faith and bonds us as a community.” In clarifying the essence of the service, the Lead Apostle explained its distinction from misconceptions held by other believers who perceive it as necromancy (worshipping ghosts or summoning spirits). He emphasized, “Our Divine Service for the Departed is rooted in our belief in the communion of saints and the Christian hope of resurrection.” He further elucidated that the service focuses on remembering and praying for departed souls, affirming faith in eternal life through Christ, rather than engaging in supernatural rituals.

Salvation in Jesus Christ!
“We affirm that none of the covenants between God and Israel brought salvation; rather, the Old Testament testifies of Jesus without granting salvation to the prophets of old” proclaimed the Apostle. “Salvation is attained through belief in Jesus Christ alone. How can the dead believe without hearing? And how can the dead hear without someone preaching to them? This is why we have the service for the departed, to intercede for those who have passed”, he said, stressing its significance in bringing hope to the departed souls.

He concluded by emphasizing that the service is not a second chance at redemption. “We cannot live our lives anyhow, hoping that someone will pray for us when we die,” he stated firmly. “The Divine Service for the Departed is a solemn act of intercession, rooted in our faith in God's mercy and the communion of saints”, he explained. “It is a time to remember and pray for our departed loved ones, affirming our belief in the resurrection and eternal life.” He urged the congregation to live faithfully, knowing that our choices in life matter.

There were 826 in attendance. The choir, orchestra, and children's choir performed beautifully, captivating all with their harmonious melodies and skillful renditions.