A group photo of the bridal couple with ministers
29 September 2026

On Saturday, 19 September 2026, District Apostle Martin Reinberger, District Leader for Southern Germany, officiated the wedding blessing of Brother Edwin Odartey Nartey and Sister Koteitsoo Ashie Kotei at the New Apostolic Church, East Legon.

He was accompanied by Lead Apostles Ohene-Saffo (Ghana), Yedenou (Benin and Togo), Oscar Nwanza (Nigeria), and Leno (Liberia and Sierra Leone), as well as Apostle Addo Asare, Bishop Fenyi, and Priest Sowah. Also in attendance were retired Apostles Ashie-Kotei, the bride's father, and Kotei-Afutu, together with Bishop Ampadu.

The divine service was based on Psalm 90:17: “And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us; and establish the work of our hands for us; yes, establish the work of our hands.”

Welcoming the newlyweds, District Apostle Reinberger reminded them of the blessing of being surrounded by people who love, support, and pray for them. He encouraged the couple to make prayer an integral part of their marriage and to pray together regularly.

Using the example of flowers, he explained that just as flowers need sunlight and water to flourish, love in marriage requires continual care, attention, and investment. Reflecting on the words, “And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,” he encouraged the couple to experience God's beauty through fellowship with Him in divine services, personal prayer, and the precious gift of spending quality time together. He further urged them to use their God-given time and talents not only for their own benefit but also in service to God and to others, following the example of Jesus Christ.

Reflecting on the words, “And establish the work of our hands for us; yes, establish the work of our hands,” the District Apostle reminded the congregation that although no one can know what the future holds, God knows all things. He encouraged the couple to place their plans, aspirations, and efforts in God's hands, trusting Him even during times of uncertainty, loneliness, or difficulty.

In conclusion, District Apostle Reinberger emphasized the importance of honesty and open communication in marriage. To illustrate this, he shared the story of a wife who lovingly served her husband bread and honey every day after their wedding. Although the husband disliked the meal, he never told her, allowing his frustration to grow over time until he eventually refused it altogether. The lesson, he explained, was that love and honesty must always go hand in hand.

He further encouraged couples to speak openly with one another, listen attentively, pray together, trust in God, and continually nurture their relationship. By placing both their marriage and the work of their hands in God's care, they can confidently build a strong and lasting union founded on faith and love.