Chicago, IL – The Presbyterian Church of Ghana’s Chicago District held a heartfelt send-off and thanksgiving service in honor of Reverend Doctor Nana Yaw Amponsah-Antwi, their admired Resident Pastor.
The service’s theme, “Where Are the Others?” focused on the importance of gratitude. Reverend Noonoo, who founded the Presbyterian Church of God in this great city, chose to be present for this significant occasion despite being almost 81 years old. He led the congregation in singing the hymn “Onyame Ye Da W’ase,” reflecting on the pastor’s enduring commitment to the community.
Significant sacrifices marked Reverend Amponsah’s journey from New York to Chicago. Although his salary was reduced to a third of what he previously earned, he remained grateful. He thanked the leadership, all the presbyters in Chicago and Bolingbrook, and the Council of Churches for their support.
In his sermon, Reverend Amponsah drew from the biblical story of the ten lepers, emphasizing the importance of gratitude. He reminded the congregation that only one leper, a Samaritan, returned to thank Jesus after being healed. This story was a powerful lesson on the value of appreciation and the dangers of ingratitude.
Reverend Amponsah also touched on the story of Joseph, whose brothers were ungrateful, and the tale of a city’s inhabitants who found sustenance in their enemies’ camp under God’s guidance. He urged the congregation to love one another, pray together, and always be grateful to God and each other.
He humbly asked for forgiveness if he had ever offended anyone, viewing every challenge as a learning opportunity. He encouraged everyone to visit his family at Worcester, emphasizing that they are “One family.”
The service included presentations to the outgoing Minister by the Ghanaian Council of Churches President, Reverend Dr. Kofi Noonoo, supported by Reverend Emmanuel Betson and Elder Christiana Osei Owusu. The Redemption Church Choir, men’s and women’s ministries, and various groups also made presentations to their beloved Pastor.
Reverend Amponsah left the congregation with a final message: “Have a grateful heart.”
Reverend Dr. Nana Yaw Amponsah-Antwi joined the Chicago Presbyterian Redemption Congregation as a congregational minister. During his tenure, Chicago achieved district status, allowing him to oversee multiple congregations. His leadership extended to the Redemption Congregation in Chicago, Trinity Congregation in Bolingbrook, Ebenezer Preaching Post in Minnesota, and Faith Preaching Post in Michigan.
The service resonated with uplifting, spirit-filled gospel music, beautifully performed by the church choir and the men’s and women’s ministries.
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Source: Sankofaonline.com
