Our Pioneers
Joining the Church brought about a great change in him. He learned that if he wanted the best of what God was offering, he needed to do his best in whatever he did.
James and John were baptized along with many others who had been awaiting the arrival of the missionaries who came with the authority to baptize, organize the Church and confer the priesthood on worthy males. It was a long awaited and joyous time.
What threat does the tradition of men pose to our journey back to our Heavenly Father?
“After many prayers and fasting with my wife, I decided to return to Ivory Coast to give what I had received, to improve the lot of my family and my people.”
What compelled Fred Antwi to give up this position of honor – one which many may esteem very desirable? Fred had found the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Firm in his testimony of the principles and doctrines of the Gospel, Fred’s course in life was changed.
“If we will give such service, our days will be filled with joy and gladness. More important, they will be consecrated to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and to the blessing of all whose lives we touch.” (President Hinckley, March 1987 Ensign).
Married in 1975, Kenneth and Janet Andam were living and raising their family in Kweikuma, Takoradi, Ghana. The accounts of their introduction to and subsequent years as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints are an inspiration.
Of the 76 full time missionaries serving in Ghana prior to the “Freeze”, sixty were located when the “Freeze” was lifted eighteen months later. Fifty-seven left jobs and school and returned to continue their missionary service. There was a special outpouring of the spirit during this time of reorganization.
“The temple coming to your area was not an accident. It came as a result of your faith and prayers to have a temple amongst you that would enable you to receive ordinances from the Lord that would enable you to become eternal families and gain your eternal salvation.”
“We know that the Lord [had] more work for us here in Sierra Leone,” Menti said. “Many areas have been opened to the preaching of the gospel. Our journey, though as difficult as it was, the Lord provided a way.”
Martha has continued to serve in many callings in Relief Society and Young Women’s where she has had a great influence on many women. She currently serves in the Ghana Temple as a Senior Missionary.