ICGC Began 41 Years Ago in a Small Classroom Without Electricity or Instruments – Pastor Mensa Otabil

Accra, Ghana – 2nd March 2025 – The International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) marked its 41st anniversary with a grand thanksgiving service, where its founder and General Overseer, Pastor Mensa Otabil, expressed profound gratitude to God and all who have contributed to the church’s growth over the years.

Addressing the congregation at ICGC Christ Temple, Pastor Otabil led the church in a moment of thanksgiving, acknowledging God’s faithfulness. “A happy, happy anniversary to all of us. God bless you! Forty-one years of the goodness of the Lord,” he declared. He encouraged members to reflect on God’s blessings in their lives and to offer thanks.

“Why don’t you lift up your hand to the Lord and thank Him for what He has done in your life, what He is doing in your life, and what He is going to do in your life? Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised,” he prayed, as the congregation joined in worship.

From Humble Beginnings to a Global Movement

Pastor Otabil reflected on ICGC’s journey from its humble beginnings to its current status as a global church. “When we started 41 years ago, we were a tiny group of people in a tiny classroom with no electricity, nothing—no musical equipment. Just a bunch of people believing God to do great things among us,” he recalled.

Through faith and perseverance, the church has grown immensely. “Today, we can stand back and look at 41 years. People who were students have become grandparents. God has done so much for us, and we stand with a spirit of gratitude to the Lord.”

Appreciation to Church Members and Workers

The General Overseer extended heartfelt appreciation to all members of ICGC, both long-standing and new. “I want to thank all of you members of the church who have come in over the 41 years—some from the beginning, and some later in the years. We want to celebrate all of you. God bless you for being a part of this church,” he said.

He also recognized the efforts of church workers and volunteers who tirelessly serve in different capacities. “You are more than church members; you serve. You give time, you give effort, you come in, you train, you practice, you rehearse, you prepare, you do all the things behind the scenes to make this church what it is. Thank you so much! We appreciate all our church workers and staff.”

Special gratitude was extended to the pastors, ministers, and leaders within the church. “We want to thank all the pastors who lead in the church and in all the many areas, all the ministers, and all those who serve in the house of the Lord.”

A Special Tribute to His Wife, Joy Otabil

In a deeply personal moment, Pastor Otabil paid special tribute to his wife, Joy Otabil, acknowledging her unwavering support and dedication. “For me personally, and also for the church, there is one woman who makes all the difference in my life and in the life of the church—my dear wife, Joy. God bless you.”

He described her as a “strong pillar” and a hardworking partner in ministry. “There are people in her role who would just sit back and collect points, but she does more than that. She gets involved, puts in the work, and puts in the hours because we don’t take God’s work for granted.”

Acknowledging God’s Grace

Pastor Otabil concluded his thanksgiving message by emphasizing that the church’s success is solely by God’s grace. “We can never outgrow God, His word, His grace, or His mercy. We are fully aware of our limitations as human beings and fully aware of His power and grace.”

He reminded the congregation that their journey has always been dependent on divine strength. “If it was left to us, this would be a total failure. But there is an arm stronger than ours, a wisdom greater than ours, and that is what we have leaned on all our lives. This is the doing of the Lord, and it is marvellous in our sight.”

With a final word of blessing, he declared, “So thank you to everyone who has been part of this story. God bless you. God bless you so much!”

A Celebration of Faith and Commitment

The thanksgiving service was a joyous occasion filled with worship, testimonies, and reflections on ICGC’s remarkable journey. As the church looks ahead, Pastor Otabil’s message of gratitude and faith set the tone for continued growth and impact in the years to come.