The 2026 Palm Sunday divine service at Accra Central reflected on the meaning of “Hosanna” and also marked the South Germany District Church leader’s final festive divine service in Ghana ahead of his retirement.

Palm Sunday begins Passion Week and recalls Jesus Christ’s entry into Jerusalem—an event foretold in Zechariah 9:9. As the crowd welcomed Him, they cried, “Hosanna” (meaning “Help us, Lord”). On Sunday, 29 March 2026, that message shaped the Palm Sunday divine service, led by District Apostle Michael Ehrich. It was attended by members from across the country, as well as Apostles, Bishops, and ministers (active and retired) from the West African region with their spouses.

The service was based on Isaiah 41:10: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (NKJV).

The Bible reading was taken from Mark 11:1–11 and read by Sister Akua Duodua.

In his sermon, the District Apostle welcomed the congregation and those following online, and acknowledged the heavy rainfall that affected attendance. He explained the significance of Palm Sunday and the cry of “Hosanna,” inviting everyone to consider what the people expected from Jesus. Many looked for political deliverance from Roman rule, he noted—but Christ came to bring salvation. When expectations were misunderstood, those who praised Him later rejected Him. The District Apostle therefore encouraged the congregation to reflect on their own expectations of the Lord today:

• Jesus Christ’s kingdom is not of this world—and only He can bring salvation. Through Him we are reconciled with God, our Creator. Christians therefore need not be afraid; they can trust God’s promise in Isaiah 41:10 and the Church’s 2026 motto: “Do not be afraid, just believe.”

He then highlighted two further points:

• God has always planned to help His people. Through the prophet Isaiah, He promised salvation—and just as He delivered His people from Egypt and Babylon, He now brings salvation through Jesus Christ.
• Life on earth is like living in a foreign land, because our true home is with God. Through Christ’s sacrifice we are reconciled with Him, and Christ will return to take His people home. This future “exodus” will be the greatest of all—so believers are called to remain strong in faith, trust God, and live in readiness.

In closing, District Apostle Michael Ehrich shared a final message with the congregation in Ghana—moving from the joy of “Hosanna” to a heartfelt farewell:

• He encouraged members to know and believe the Articles of Faith: faith in God the Father, in Jesus Christ and His resurrection, in the work of the Holy Spirit, in the forgiveness of sins, and in eternal life.
• He also emphasized that Jesus leads His Church through the Apostles, and urged believers to remain faithful to the sacraments, including Holy Baptism and Holy Communion.
• He reminded all ministers that they are equal before God and should focus on Christ—not on titles.
• He called for unity, love, and a renewed commitment to sharing the gospel. Reassuring the congregation of God’s help, he urged them to trust in God’s timing, remain steadfast in faith, and open their hearts to Christ.

The divine service was supported by Apostles Vincent Yedenuo (Benin and Togo) and Mark Leno (Liberia, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast).

Sacraments
During the service, the District Apostle administered the sacraments for the departed. Apostles Boakye and Poku-Akubia (Ghana) received them on behalf of the departed.

Retirement and ordinations
As part of his final acts in Ghana, the District Apostle placed two District Rectors into retirement. He also ordained Godfried Fenyi as Bishop, as well as two District Rectors and four District Rector Delegates.

In total, more than 1,000 members attended the divine service. It was broadcast live on Ghana Television (GTV) and streamed on the Church’s Facebook and YouTube platforms.