Ghanaian Congregation in Telford Sing 'Ebenezer' - Sabbath 4 August 2007
Ghanaian Congregation in Telford Sing 'Ebenezer' - 4 August 2007 - by Theophilus Gokah
Inspired by the activities of peoplegroup churches elsewhere in the United Kingdom, the Telford Seventh-day Adventist Church organised a 'Ghana Day of Fellowship' to interact with friends and the community at large. The day brought together friends, visitors and Christian brethren from as far away as Birmingham and saw the church members coming alive with dedication and dynamism. The theme for the occasion was a symbol of Ghanaian hospitality, 'Akwaaba', meaning welcome. Josephine Appoh, conducting Sabbath School, urged guests to consider their presence a blessing and assured the congregation of the ability of God to do all things according to His wisdom.
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of Thomas Telford, after whom the town of Telford was named. Telford is one of the fastest growing towns in the midlands and situated within this dynamic community is the Telford Adventist Church. From the Christian perspective, it is God who has brought the town and its people to their present position and this the church must make Him known to the community.
In the morning service the Telford members were reminded of their role in propagating the advent message within their community - a duty that can only be realised through dedication, planning, perseverance and the support of the Holy Spirit.
In his sermon, Dr Theophilus Gokah challenged the congregation to extend more invitations from the community. Dwelling on the Church in Philadelphia, Dr Gokah cautioned against being complacent, not giving in to spurious teachings, and holding fast to Christian principles without compromising knowledge, understanding of scripture and spiritual well-being. For, the sins and practices of the Nicolaitans in turning the grace of God into lasciviousness, is our sin. "We must learn not to tread on the Nicolaitan experience for the consequences can be catastrophic," said Dr Gokah.