Delivering the sermon at the ordination of 28 new ministers at the Peyer Memorial Congregation, Bantama, Kumasi, Rev. Peter Kofi Nyarko on Sunday, called on the newly ordained to commit themselves to preaching sound doctrine and shepherding God’s people with diligence and integrity.
“Preach and shepherd the people,” he said. “Stop preaching anyhow. Prepare a sermon. Preach a message.” He urged the ministers to build on the foundation of Christ without altering it. “Do not change the foundation,” he cautioned.
“Build on it.” According to him, preaching must be intentional, rooted in Scripture, and guided by the Holy Spirit—not shaped by personal opinions or convenience.
Rev. Kofi Nyarko reminded the ministers that shepherding requires total devotion. “Be totally devoted to God and sacrifice,” he said. He noted that some ministers struggle because their devotion is inconsistent. He encouraged them to honour their commitments, including tithing and giving, as expressions of faithfulness.
He also stressed the importance of respecting Church authority. “Listen to the authority of the Church,” he said. “You are under a Presbytery and a district. Do not do things on your own.” He warned that disregarding Church leadership is tantamount to disrespecting God.
He urged them to study the Constitution, the Manual of Order, and the traditions of the Church so they can lead by example.
Rev. Kofi Nyarko reminded the ministers that ministry is not instant success. “Christianity is not instant coffee,” he said, drawing laughter from the congregation. He warned that the journey ahead will include both good and bad seasons, and that congregations may not always understand their struggles. Yet, he encouraged them to remain steadfast, intentional, and committed to the holy covenant they have entered with Christ.
He ended by affirming the sacredness of their call: “It is a holy call. Christ has entered into a holy covenant with you.”
