Koforidua: The Great Commission Church International (GCCI) organized a retirement and appreciation service on Saturday, June 13, to honor Reverend Stephen Kwesi Edem, a former Director of Personnel of the GCCI Ghana National Council, along with his wife, Mrs. Faith Edem, as Rev Edem retires from active ministry after 36 years of service.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event took place in Koforidua in the Eastern Region and was officiated by Apostle Dr. Samuel Vincent Ansah, Chairman of the GCCI Ghana National Council, and his wife, Mrs. Paulina Ansah. The gathering was attended by prominent figures such as Apostle Richard Kwami Adanu, First Vice Chairman; Rev Moses Kwame Pinkrah, Second Vice Chairman; and Apostle Dr Joseph Kwabena Antwi, a former Chairman of the Council.
In addition, other key attendees included Rev Alexander Obeng-Oguamenah, Director of Personnel; Rev Dr Samuel Arthur, Director of Evangelism; Rev Emmanuel Kodzo Oppong, Director of Ministries; and Rev Stephen Toku Cato, Director of Finance, all representing the GCCI Ghana National Council. The event, themed "Celebrating 36 Years of Impactful Service to the Lord," brought together over 45 pastors, congregants from various GCCI branches, family, friends, and well-wishers nationwide.
Apostle Dr. Ansah, while delivering the homily, encouraged retired pastors to stay active in ministry, highlighting that God's gifts and calling do not retire. He emphasized that retirement for pastors is a transition or redefinition of ministry rather than a complete withdrawal, stating, "For pastors, service to God and the Church only ends with death."
Apostle Dr. Ansah urged Rev and Mrs. Edem to embrace intercessory roles and lauded Rev Edem for his humility, commitment, and dedication to God's work. He referenced Rev Edem's sacrifices, including his service in challenging environments like Tamale, supported by his wife's willingness to seek transfers to accompany him. He prayed for divine blessings on Rev Edem and his family in retirement.
Apostle Richard Kwami Adanu acknowledged the couple's faithful service across seven GCCI assemblies in three administrative regions over the past 36 years. Meanwhile, Rev Moses Kwame Pinkrah viewed retirement as the onset of a new chapter in Rev Edem's ministry journey.
Rev Edem and his wife, in their response, expressed gratitude to God for sustaining them throughout their ministry. Rev Edem also thanked his wife for her unwavering support during their 40-year marriage and appreciated his children and family for their steadfast presence.