Founding and Growing a Ministry: The Action Chapel International Example

Introduction

Action Chapel International (ACI), founded by Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, stands as a beacon of Charismatic Christianity in Ghana and beyond. 

ACI’s journey from a small prayer fellowship to a global network of churches reflects the visionary leadership and enduring faith of its founder. 

This article delves into the history of ACI and gleans ten significant lessons that every young minister can learn from Archbishop Duncan-Williams’ experiences in starting and growing a church.

The Founding of Action Chapel International

Early Beginnings

Nicholas Duncan-Williams’ ministry began in August 1979 with a small prayer fellowship held at his father’s house. This humble beginning was a springboard for what would become the first Charismatic church in Ghana. 

The fellowship grew rapidly, drawing students and young people disenchanted with the rigid liturgies of their mainline churches. 

The charismatic leadership and dynamic preaching style of Duncan-Williams attracted many who were seeking a more vibrant and engaging form of worship.

Expansion and Growth

The fellowship soon transformed into a full-fledged church, Christian Action Faith Ministries (CAFM), with its first formal location in Fadama. The church moved several times, from Tradefair to the International Students’ Hall, and finally to the Diplomatic Shop. 

Each move was necessitated by the growing number of congregants eager to partake in the powerful prayer sessions and dynamic sermons.

Prayer Cathedral and Global Reach

In 1992, ACI found a permanent home at the Prayer Cathedral near the Accra airport. The imposing 8,000-seat edifice, which remains under construction as of 2003, became a central hub for worship and spiritual activities. 

The Prayer Cathedral, now on Spintex Road, is one of the largest church buildings in Accra and serves as the headquarters of CAFM.

Under Duncan-Williams’ leadership, ACI expanded beyond Ghana, establishing over 500 branch and affiliate churches across Africa, Europe, and North America. 

This global outreach solidified ACI’s reputation as a leading Charismatic ministry worldwide.

Ten Lessons for Young Ministers

1. Start with a Vision

Archbishop Duncan-Williams started with a clear vision of a church that would break away from traditional liturgies and offer a more engaging worship experience. Young ministers should develop a compelling vision that addresses the spiritual needs of their target audience.

2. Embrace Humble Beginnings

The humble beginnings of ACI in a small prayer fellowship remind young ministers that significant ministries often start small. Patience and perseverance are crucial in nurturing a fledgling congregation.

3. Be Adaptable and Flexible

ACI’s multiple relocations before settling at the Prayer Cathedral highlight the importance of adaptability. Young ministers should be prepared to move and make changes as their ministry grows and evolves.

4. Focus on Prayer

Known as the “Apostle of Strategic Prayer,” Duncan-Williams emphasized the power of prayer in his ministry. Incorporating regular, fervent prayer into church activities can lay a strong spiritual foundation for any ministry.

5. Engage the Youth

The initial growth of ACI was driven by young people who were disenchanted with traditional churches. Young ministers should actively engage and involve the youth in their congregations, recognizing their potential to drive growth and innovation.

6. Invest in Leadership Development

Duncan-Williams’ leadership was pivotal in ACI’s growth. Young ministers should prioritize leadership development, mentoring future leaders who can support and expand the ministry’s reach.

7. Cultivate a Strong Support Network

The support of para-church organizations and fellowships played a significant role in ACI’s early success. Building strong relationships with other ministries and organizations can provide valuable support and resources.

8. Emphasize Faith and Prosperity

The prosperity message preached by Duncan-Williams resonated with many Ghanaians during economic hardships. While balancing this message with sound doctrine, young ministers can offer hope and encouragement to their congregants through teachings on faith and prosperity.

9. Leverage Media and Technology

The use of Christian video ministries in the 1980s helped prepare the ground for ACI’s growth. Today, leveraging media and technology, including social media and online platforms, can significantly enhance a ministry’s reach and impact.

10. Maintain Integrity and Accountability

Despite personal challenges, Duncan-Williams remained committed to his ministry. Young ministers should strive for integrity and accountability in their personal and professional lives, ensuring that their actions reflect their teachings.

Conclusion

The history of Action Chapel International and the leadership of Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams offer invaluable lessons for young ministers aspiring to start and grow their churches. 

From humble beginnings to becoming a global ministry, ACI’s journey underscores the importance of vision, adaptability, prayer, and strong leadership. 

By learning from these experiences, young ministers can build thriving, impactful ministries that meet the spiritual needs of their communities and beyond.

Sources:

1. https://actionchapel.net/about/about-prayer-cathedral/
2. https://etheses.bham.ac.uk//id/eprint/12485/7/Sallah2022PhD_Redacted.pdf
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Action_Chapel_International#:~:text=Action%20Chapel%20International%20(ACI)%20is,Action%20Faith%20Ministries%20(CAFM).