Pastor Mensa Otabil Reflects on His Focused Approach to Ministry

Accra, Ghana – General Overseer of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), Pastor Mensa Otabil, has shared insights into how he started his ministry with a deep sense of focus and commitment, in contrast to the casual approach many others took in the early 1980s.

Speaking at ICGC Christ Temple, Pastor Otabil recalled the attitudes he observed when he first entered full-time ministry. He noted that many pastors lacked intentionality in their calling, often leaving their congregations unattended while traveling. Others believed that preaching without preparation was a sign of being led by the Holy Spirit.

“I noticed that people did not seem to focus on the work God had called them to do. They were not intentional about their work and their ministry,” he stated.

He also highlighted a culture of harsh criticism within some churches, where pastors measured their effectiveness by how much they could “blast” their members over dress codes and personal choices. In addition, he expressed concern about the lack of discernment in allowing guest speakers to minister without proper vetting.

Determined to take a different path, Pastor Otabil committed himself to discipline, preparation, and moral integrity. “Seeing the wrong thing and doing the right thing is always very difficult,” he said, emphasizing his resolve to uphold excellence in ministry.