Africa: October Mission Drive

Living Missionally in Everyday Life

“I am made all things to all men that I might by all means save some” (1Corinthians 9:22). 

We are saved fundamentally to bring others to the same glorious experience of salvation. In the same vein, we are called to discipleship to make the ministry of reconciliation as pragmatic as possible. In retrospect, being a Christian transcends mere empty rhetoric and quiet contemplation; it is about weaving genuine faith into the fabric of everyday life. For this reason, living “missionally” is being made all things to all categories of mankind with the singular, paramount goal of bringing them unanimously to the only Way, the exclusive Truth, and quintessentially, the Life. 

We cannot afford to be dormant, inactive, and lackadaisical about this critical issue—this will only make the devil ecstatic and exultant; rather, we should be passionately and actively engaged with sharing the transformative love of Christ wherever we go, whatever we do. Think of it as a 24/7 engagement. When the enemy tells you to recline and retire, refire! Instead of quitting and down-tooling, reinvent and reignite your commitment. The Great Commission—the sacred “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:18–20)—is not just reserved for missionaries or a select few; this commission is in itself a call to action for one and all without any exemption. 

Paul said, “I . . . have taught you publicly, and from house to house, testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 20:20–21). 

Paul, the revered apostle, did this—preaching the gospel of repentance towards God—publicly and from house to house with consistency. Regrettably, many ministers have stopped preaching repentance and are content with making the people happy instead of them being saved and becoming holy. 

We are basically brand ambassadors for Jesus, walking models of his love (2 Corinthians 5:20). That means letting our light shine as the Lord himself instructed. And that light must shine brightly, not just in grand gestures, but in the seemingly mundane moments. Additionally, the gospel must not be confined to church walls; it must gush out into our workplaces, slip into schools, and penetrate our neighborhoods—essentially, everywhere we happen to be. Our primary sphere of influence should be construed as our mission field, and places that are farther from us must not be neglected. Where we cannot physically gain access due to distance, our resources can do marvels by narrowing the gap. Like Paul, we should be ready to spend and be spent for souls, and amazingly, the apostle was glad about this fact. He said, “I will very gladly spend and be spent for you . . .” (2 Corinthians 12:15). Even so, must we!

Living “missionally” is fundamentally different from engaging in superficial, forceful, and aggressive efforts to convert others from different faiths. True mission-driven living centers on sincere conversion to Christ, which involves exemplifying his teachings and showing genuine love to those around us—just as the Bible commands us to do: “Love thy neighbor as thyself” (Matthew 22:39). This mindset centers on becoming the kind of people who make others want to know more about the King of this heavenly kingdom. 

The pivotal question begging for answers is how can we practically and unanimously develop this coveted lifestyle? Paul, who modeled this lifestyle, used a multifaceted approach, like a multi-layered cake, to achieve phenomenal success.

First, share your conversion testimony. Let people in on your journey, your personal transformation. Do not be shy; it is a powerful tool. Next, listen—truly listen—to others. Ask thoughtful questions and show genuine interest. Exhibit godly empathy and compassion; don’t be apathetic to the plights of others. People crave connection, and often, that is the first step that can lead someone to genuine repentance. Then, serving as a disciple needs to be reiterated as well as emphasized, as this was hinted in the opening thoughts of this piece.

Christians cannot impact the world for good by isolating themselves from it. We must engage with it like Christ did and not withdraw from it. We are called to be salt and light in the world, and not to retreat from it. So, integrate with your community using the Bible as both the compass and navigator—volunteer, help a neighbor, offer a listening ear. Little acts of kindness go a long way. Pray for those around you, interceding for them before God. 

Live with integrity; let your actions speak louder than words. Hospitality is key as well—welcome others into your home, provided it is safe and practical to do so; share a meal; build connections safely and responsibly. Finally, get involved in your community—attend local events, and be a part of the fabric of your neighborhood. Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Mathew 5:16). 

This kingdom lifestyle overshadows grand pronouncements or dramatic displays; it is about consistently embodying the love of Christ in every interaction. It is about being the biblical example we wish to see in the church and in the world outside the church. It is a commitment to lift up the person, and the gospel of Christ by default, perpetually. 

I believe that churches should not just be content with maintaining themselves and focusing their efforts inward. Rather than passively participating in global missions, they need to actively engage in them. As time progresses, it is possible for churches to fall into a pattern of complacency, a passive attitude that diminishes the urgency of fulfilling the Great Commission by reducing one’s own sense of urgency.

Living missionally is a glorious calling extended to every follower of Christ, not just the chosen few. It is about letting our lives and ministries be a living testament to the transformative power of the gospel.

Bishop Enis James Kolawole

Africa General Presbyter

VIDEO FROM UGANDA – LOCAL YOUTH PLAYING INDIGENOUS INSTRUMENTS

 

National Leadership Conference in Liberia

Equipping Today for Tomorrow’s Challenges

We had the privilege of delivering a three-day leadership conference in Liberia focused on Equipping Today for Tomorrow’s Challenges. Our team of leaders included Africa General Presbyter Bishop Enis James Kolawole, The Gambia/Senegal National Bishop Chris Uti, and the host, Liberia National Bishop Ferdinand Weah.

This conference was an exciting moment to connect, learn, and grow with leaders. The experience was almost beyond words, igniting our spirits and reinforcing our sense of unity and purpose in spreading the gospel.

The brethren were captivated by the inspiring sermons and teachings from the speakers who were anointed by the Holy Spirit. Initially, the consideration was that a three-day conference

was too long; however, after the witness of the Holy Spirit, we were all left longing for more. We are grateful for the amazing sessions that were filled with joy, inspiration, and the Holy Spirit at work!

Bishop Chris Uti

The Gambia National Bishop 

VIDEO FROM LIBERIA – LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE IN LIBERIA

 

National Convention in Zambia

August 29–31, 2025 

The National Convention in Zambia officially opened on Friday, August 29, 2025. Upon receiving all the expected delegates, a march was led by the Boys’ Brigade Zambia Brass Band and made its way for a distance of about 5 kilometers from the church along the nation’s major road. This is the road that connects from Cape Town, South Africa, to Cairo, Egypt. 

The national bishop’s opening address laid much emphasis on the theme “On Mission” with a fresh anointing based on Psalms 92:10.

All the churches in Zambia were represented, bringing the attendance to about 3,000 congregants. Every auxiliary department actively participated as programmed—women’s ministries, men’s ministries, youth ministries, children’s ministries, leadership development, stewardship, harvest, etc.

During the convention, 304 people received Jesus Christ as their Lord and personal Savior, and over 500 received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The services were characterized by miracles and signs and wonders. New leaders were appointed to meet the demands of the Church. Among those honored for loyalty as well as long service to the church was an 89-year-old man who also was a recipient of a bicycle. The convention concluded on August 31.

We thank the International Offices, the Africa general presbyter, our Harvest Partner churches, and the entire COGOP family for your prayers, love, and support. 

To God be the glory! 

Bishop Alfred Kanjuye 

Zambia and Angola National Bishop

 

Multiplication of Ministry in Niger

In late June, I had the distinct privilege of traveling to Niger for the National Convention—a powerful and unifying moment in ministry. I was honored to stand alongside General Presbyter Bishop James Kolawole and former National Bishop Kadato Richard in a dynamic celebration and strategic joint meeting with Pastor Amoussou Pierre of Eglise de Pentécôte Source de Vie. After years of faithful collaboration, fellowship, and ministry between Brother Richard and Pastor Pierre, a significant milestone was reached: Pastor Pierre officially united with the Church of God of Prophecy in the mission to spread the gospel across Niger, bringing with him three strong and well-established churches. At the convention’s close, delegates from both fellowships gathered to formally sign an agreement to work together in advancing the cause of Christ. We rejoice in witnessing how God is moving mightily in our time, opening doors and empowering his people to proclaim the gospel to the nations.

VIDEO FROM NIGER – THE NEW NIGER CONGRESSION THAT JOINED THE CHURCH

 

Africa General Presbyter

Bishop James Kolawole

Bishop James Kolawole was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and joined the Church of God of Prophecy in 1986. He was appointed national bishop of Nigeria in 2000. He has served in Africa as a regional bishop, national bishop of Ghana, a member of the Africa Finance and Administrative Committee, interim national bishop of Eswatini, South Africa, Namibia, and Lesotho (with Bishop Nathaniel Botha). In 2022, he was selected by the International Presbytery and the International Assembly in a one-accord agreement as the general presbyter to Africa. Bishop Kolawole has degrees in theology and business administration earned at St. Augustine College, Nigeria; Federal Polytechnic, Ekiti State; and Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary. Bishop Kolawole is married to Ellen Kolawole, and they have four adult children.