Chicago’s Ghanaian community marked yet another milestone last Sunday, March 16, 2025, as they gathered at the Church of Pentecost, U.S.A., INC – Chicago North, located at 4332 N. Kedzie Ave, to celebrate Ghana’s 68th Independence. This heartfelt event, rooted in tradition and community, continued the legacy of the first post-Ghana’s independence Thanksgiving service held on March 5, 1995, at the Harris Park YMCA, commemorating the nation’s 38th anniversary. What began as a solemn gathering decades ago has flourished into a dynamic celebration, bridging culture, faith, and hope.
A Sermon of Restoration and Renewal
Under the powerful theme “Let Us Rise Up and Build” (Nehemiah 2:18), Pastor Mark Twumasi inspired the congregation with a message centered on revival and rebuilding. Drawing wisdom from the life of Nehemiah, he reflected on the significance of walls—symbols of protection, unity, and strength in ancient cities. Pastor Twumasi encouraged the community to rebuild the broken walls of their lives and nation, transforming vulnerability into resilience.
Through Nehemiah’s story, he underscored qualities that should guide every individual in their mission to restore and uplift:
- Integrity and Selflessness: Nehemiah’s unwavering love for his people, refusal to disown them, and determination to use his unique position for the greater good were hallmarks of his leadership.
- Unity in Diversity: Recognizing the importance of collaboration, Nehemiah’s success was a reminder that no one builds alone. “Everybody needs somebody,” Pastor Twumasi emphasized, urging the congregation to find strength in unity.
- Leadership in Action: Nehemiah’s pragmatic leadership brought plans to life, turning vision into reality. He called for bold action and the use of strong materials—both in physical endeavors and in character-building—to create lasting foundations.
Despite opposition and obstacles, Nehemiah’s ability to overcome challenges was a testament to perseverance and faith. Pastor Twumasi concluded with a resounding call to rise and build—lives, families, churches, communities, and the nation—as Nehemiah did in rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls in just 52 days.
Reverend Dr. Kofi Noonoo’s Charge to the Council
Rev. Dr. Kofi Noonoo reminded pastors and church leaders of the importance of focusing on the year ahead. He encouraged active participation in monthly prayer meetings and retreats, emphasizing unity, emotional resilience, and financial stability within member churches. As a symbolic gesture of encouragement, Rev. Dr. Noonoo closed his remarks by singing the iconic hymn, “One Day at a Time,” a touching moment of reflection and hope that left the audience inspired.
Words of Gratitude from Dr. Eunice Cromwell
In her remarks, Dr. Eunice Cromwell, Vice President of the Ghana National Council (GNC), highlighted the significance of celebrating 68 years of Ghana’s independence. With eloquence and passion, she thanked the Council of Ghanaian Churches for their role in fostering spiritual growth and unity within the community. She expressed heartfelt appreciation for the Church of Pentecost and their invaluable contributions, including the operation of a community health clinic providing free services—a beacon of care and compassion.
Dr. Cromwell encouraged the congregation to embrace this resource as a blessing, while urging them to seek God’s guidance and continue standing together as one. Her words resonated deeply, leaving the community with renewed purpose and hope for a brighter future.
A Celebration of Faith, Music, and National Pride
The event was brought to life through the power of spirit-filled hymns and music. The melodies, vibrant and soulful, lifted hearts and reminded the audience of their shared heritage and enduring faith. Each hymn was not just entertainment but a celebration of unity and hope—an expression of gratitude for Ghana’s journey as a nation.
National pride was palpable throughout the service. Flags waved, voices rose in song, and stories of Ghana’s triumphs and challenges echoed in the hearts of attendees. The auditorium was a mosaic of love and patriotism, where each moment reinforced the community’s bond and belief in the promise of progress.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
From its humble beginnings in 1995, Ghana’s post-independence Thanksgiving service in Chicago has grown into a powerful tradition that unites the Ghanaian diaspora, celebrating both cultural heritage and spiritual connection. This year’s gathering was a reminder that while challenges remain, faith, unity, and action will pave the way forward.
As the congregation departed, one message rang clear: Ghana’s strength lies not only in the resilience of its people but in the enduring hope and determination to rise and build—together. Indeed, the story of Ghana and Ghanaian immigrants in the diaspora continues, and the best chapters are yet to be written.
Pictures : Credit Dr. Eunice Cromwell
Source : Sankofaonline.com
