On Sunday, 20 September 2026, District Apostle Martin Rheinberger, the newly appointed leader of the Southern Germany District Church, conducted his first festive divine service in Ghana at the Kumasi Central Church. The service brought together more than 4,000 believers from the Kumasi and Konongo Apostle Areas and was attended by several Lead Apostles, Apostles, Bishops, priestly ministers, and their spouses from across West Africa.
The Bible text for the divine service was taken from Luke 12:16-18: “Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: ‘The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. And he thought within himself, saying, “What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?” So he said, “I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods.”’”
District Apostle Rheinberger centred his sermon on the importance of faith, fellowship, and a living relationship with Jesus Christ. Referring to Jacob's persistence in seeking God's blessing, he encouraged believers to remain steadfast in faith and close to God, particularly during times of trial. He emphasised that true fellowship with Christ goes beyond attending church services and should lead to transformation in character, relationships, and daily living.
The District Apostle also reflected on Jesus' teaching that faith as small as a mustard seed can accomplish great things. He encouraged the congregation to cultivate a personal and loving relationship with Christ, rooted in trust and commitment, and to keep alive the hope of His promised return.
Drawing lessons from the Parable of the Rich Fool, he warned against greed and self-centredness, reminding the congregation that material possessions cannot replace meaningful fellowship. Christians, he noted, are blessed with a spiritual family in which they can share their faith, experiences, and blessings. He encouraged members to seek peace in their relationships, pray for one another, and allow God's word to guide their interactions rather than expecting ministers to settle personal disputes.
Highlighting the practical expression of Christian fellowship, District Apostle Rheinberger urged believers to treat one another with kindness, respect, and understanding. Through a light-hearted illustration, he reminded the congregation to be mindful of their words and actions and to foster unity and harmony within the church community.
In conclusion, he stressed that all believers are one in Christ regardless of social status or personal circumstances. He also pointed to the eternal nature of God's kingdom, encouraging the congregation to focus on the everlasting glory that awaits God's children rather than temporary earthly things.
The divine service concluded with a renewed call for believers to strengthen their faith, deepen their fellowship with Christ and one another, and remain steadfast in the hope of eternal fellowship with God.
District Apostle Rheinberger was assisted by Lead Apostle Yedenou of Benin and Togo. During the service, the sacraments for the departed were also administered, with Apostle Osei-Du and Bishop Kesse receiving them on behalf of the departed.