Community Thanksgiving Service in Columbus Ohio

Under the auspices of the Council of Ghanaian Churches, Ghanaians residents in Columbus, Ohio participated in a thanksgiving service that brought together about 200 people in a non-denominational setting. Celebrating the sense of community on which the annual Onegoal Annual Family Picnic is built, the service featured praises and worship, musical performances, a sermon, and intercessory prayers.

In his sermon based on Psalm 103, Rev. Dr. I.B. Boateng of the Ghanaian Seventh Day Adventists recounted some of the many instances for which Ghanaians everywhere ought to be thankful. He drew particular reference to the mysterious ways in which most people, who admit to having dosed off from time to time while driving their automobiles, have somehow arrived safely at their various destinations. He further implied that an attitude of gratitude is necessary for the community to continue to enjoy God’s protection and favor.

Rev. Asampong of the Apostolic Church led the intercessory prayer session during which the congregation prayed for the economic and spiritual prosperity of both Ghana and the USA, the presidents of both countries, as well as continued unity in the respective Ghanaian communities around the world, among other things.

Musical performances were offered by individuals and groups including Ivy Agyare, Kwame Ambah of the Trumpets of Christ, the Ebenezer Methodist Church Choir, the Power of Praise, and the SDA Choir. Elders Boamah Acheampong and Baffour Awuah of the picnic planning committee presented a report on the 2009 picnic.

The event was hosted by Jesus Power Assembly of God and their senior pastor Rev. Bismark Osei Akomeah. The MC for the event was Rev. Prince Bonsu of Charisma Word Ministries.

The Council of Ghanaian Churches is a body of pastors and leaders of Ghanaian churches focused on building a spiritually-vibrant and unified Ghanaian community. The council represents most of the over 16 Ghanaian churches in the city and is chaired by Rev. Andrew Aboagye of Ramseyer Presbyterian Church.

The One Goal Family Picnic is the largest event in the Ghanaian community and brings together people from in and around Central Ohio for a day of fun and fellowship, and is held on the second Saturday in August of every year.