By Sankofaonline.com
Chicago’s Ghanaian and African community gathered at the Church of Pentecost , 4332 N Kedzie Avenue for what became one of the most memorable post‑Independence Thanksgiving Services in recent history. Organized jointly by the Ghana National Council of Metropolitan Chicago (GNC) and the Council of Ghanaian Churches (CGC), the event doubled as a celebration of Ghana’s 69th Independence anniversary and the retirement of a towering spiritual figure: Rev. Dr. Kofi Noonoo, who has served the community for more than three decades.
The evening also marked a historic milestone as Rev. Noonoo was conferred the distinguished title of President Emeritus of the Council of Ghanaian Churches, a recognition of his decades of leadership, humility, and unwavering service. As one tribute beautifully captured it, he is “the pearl that Ghana created.”
Dignitaries in attendance included representatives from the Mayor of Chicago’s Office, led by Ms. Nneka Obasi, Dr. and Mrs. Papa Kwesi Nduom, GNC President Mr.Effah Ameyaw, former GNC Presidents Dr. Reuben Hadzide, Mr.Paa Kwasi Sam, and Mr.Kassim Abubakari;Dr. Prince Hodogbe , as well as esteemed chiefs, queens , clergy, and community leaders. GNC Vice President Caresse Ethel Adongo and her predecessor Dr. Eunice Araba Cromwell were in attendance .
A Service Marked by Worship, Reflection, and Celebration
The evening opened with a powerful invocation by Rev. Mark Twumasi‑Agyemang, host pastor of The Church of Pentecost, whose leadership anchored the program with grace and spiritual depth.
The Church of Pentecost Choir delivered one of the night’s most unforgettable moments. Their harmonies, discipline, and spirit‑filled ministration lifted the atmosphere and ushered the congregation into a deep place of worship. Their performance became the emotional heartbeat of the celebration.
Minister Kofi Cromwell led the national anthems of Ghana and the USA with dignity and later joined the choir in praise and worship, adding to the musical richness of the evening.
GNC President Effah Ameyaw: A Call to Move Forward in Unity
The GNC President ,Effah Ameyaw , delivered a stirring message drawn from Exodus 14:15, urging the community to “move forward” in faith and purpose. He emphasized the power of partnership between church and community, calling for deeper collaboration in mentoring youth, strengthening families, promoting education, and building economic empowerment.
He likened Rev. Noonoo’s ministry to the calm leadership of the pilot in the “Miracle on the Hudson,” guiding many through life’s storms with wisdom and grace.
Sermon: Pastor Gideon Barden’s Charge to “Go Forward”
Pastor Gideon Barden, President of the Council of Ghanaian Churches, preached a compelling sermon on the theme “Go Forward.” Beginning with the hymn “Da Na Se”, he reminded the congregation of God’s enduring favor over Ghana and Ghanaians abroad.
He taught that true forward movement requires force, purpose, and obedience, not mere activity. He emphasized that believers must align their thoughts, words, and actions with Christ, trusting that the latter glory shall exceed the former.
A Night of Tributes: Honoring a Father of the Community
Tributes flowed from every corner of the community, chiefs,queens, elders, clergy, youth, and families, each painting a portrait of a man whose ministry shaped generations.
One tribute captured the heart of the community’s affection: “Your funny songs and melodies brought joy to our gatherings… You made me feel like family.”
Rev. Ernest Baker delivered a moving tribute during the conferral of President Emeritus, describing Rev. Noonoo as “The Pearl that Ghana created,” a line that drew emotional applause.
A Rich History Remembered: The Council of Ghanaian Churches
One of the most enlightening moments of the evening came from Mrs. Abena Agyeman‑Bugyei, who presented a beautifully researched and heartfelt history of the Council of Ghanaian Churches. She reminded the audience that the CGC began humbly with only three churches, a testament to the vision and determination of early pioneers led by Reverend Noonoo and others.
Her presentation traced the council’s remarkable growth into the vibrant, united body it is today, an institution strengthened by leaders like Rev. Noonoo, whose service helped shape its identity and mission.
Remarks by Rev. Dr. Kofi Noonoo: The Power of One
In a moment that perfectly reflected the humility for which he is known, Rev. Dr. Kofi Noonoo chose to defer his full remarks. With the program running long due to the overwhelming number of tributes, he insisted that those who had come to honor him should have their time. He told the congregation that he would share his full message later on social media, once again placing others before himself and demonstrating the quiet grace that has defined his ministry.
Even in the brief words he offered, Rev. Noonoo spoke with deep gratitude, reflecting on more than 30 years of service. He centered his message on “The Power of One,” reminding the congregation that God often uses a single life to transform communities.Quoting Edward Everett Hale—“I am only one, I cannot do everything—but I can do something.”He urged everyone to be that “one life” God can use to bring change.
He encouraged the community not to wait for crowds, permission, or perfect conditions, but to act when God calls. He closed with a blessing rooted in Scripture, praying that God would preserve and guide the community in the years ahead.
A Daughter’s Gratitude: A Family’s Heartfelt Vote of Thanks
Dr. Eunice Araba Cromwell delivered a deeply moving vote of thanks on behalf of the family, expressing gratitude to clergy, chiefs, queen mothers, dignitaries, the Mayor’s Office, and the entire community.
She highlighted the contributions of the planning committee, the Church of Pentecost, Martha’s Kitchen, Kukua Kreates, Ava Marks, Sankofa Photography, sankofaonline,and DJ Odikro, whose combined efforts created a celebration worthy of Rev. Noonoo’s legacy.Her words captured the spirit of the evening:“Yesterday, we celebrated not just a retirement, but a legacy, a legacy of faith, humility, leadership, and unwavering service.”
Reception: A Final Tribute from Dr. Reuben Hadzide
At the reception, former GNC President Dr. Reuben Hadzide offered a heartfelt tribute, describing Rev. Noonoo as a counselor, guide, bridge‑builder, and spiritual father whose ministry touched every generation.He honored Mrs. Nettie Noonoo for her quiet strength and sacrifice, reminding the audience that behind every great leader stands a steadfast partner.His closing words resonated deeply:“Your works are written on the tablets of our hearts… for many have had countless instructors, but not many fathers.”He then led the audience in the beloved chorus: “We love you in the name of the Lord…”
A Night to Remember
From the soaring harmonies of the choir to the powerful sermons, heartfelt tributes, and the conferral of President Emeritus, the evening stood as a testament to community, faith, and legacy.Rev. Dr. Kofi Noonoo’s retirement is not an ending, it is the continuation of a life that has shaped, blessed, and strengthened the Ghanaian community of Chicago for more than 30 years.His legacy endures in the lives he touched, the unity he fostered, and the spiritual foundation he helped build.
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