On Sunday, October 27, 2024, Apostle Charles Asare (Accra Working Area) conducted the preparation service for the Divine Service for the Departed at the Osu Congregation, Accra East District. He was accompanied by Deputy District Rectors De-Heer (Accra East) and Kankam (Dodowa) and as well as Congregational Rectors Appia-Agyei (La), Lartey (Teshie 2) and Obeng (Teshie 1).

The text word used was Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”.

Beginning the sermon, Apostle Charles Asare posed a reflective question, “Do we truly pray for the dead or prepare wholeheartedly towards the service for the departed? For this reason, today's text word has been given to us".

Expanding on the text word, the Apostle:

• Elaborated on how God, through Christ, embodied light on Earth, showcasing His nature through love, grace, and compassion. He urged that as Christ's disciples, we must also let our light shine by showing love to one another, reflecting the teachings of Jesus, who described His house as a house of prayer.
• He reminded the congregation that our bodies are temples of God, meant to be sanctuaries of prayer and love.
• Referencing Apostle Paul, the Apostle clarified that adherence to church orders and outward appearances do not guarantee salvation. Rather, it is our love—both for God and for our neighbours—that leads to salvation. He stressed that love should manifest through our actions, not merely through words.

In conclusion, Apostle Charles Asare reaffirmed that Jesus is the light of the world, who descended into the realm of the departed to reach out to souls in spirit. He encouraged the congregation to pray for these souls, clarifying that prayers are directed to God, asking for mercy and guidance for the departed. He urged all to continue believing in Jesus, fulfill the law, and let their lights shine through love, mercy, and compassion toward all.

Apostle Asare also praised and commended Sister Nora for her long-serving years and commitment to the choir. On this occasion, she led the Osu choir as the conductor to the amazement and joy of all, especially the Apostle. Sister Nora has been a chorister for close to 50 years.