Greater Works 2025...Day 5 (Oh what a Jesus Night!)

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

It was Friday, August 8, 2025, the climax of the Greater Works 2025 Conference (GW2025), the annual gathering of members of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC).

It was also the day chosen to celebrate the reason for the conference and the cynosure of the gathering - Jesus!

So members of the GW2025 Praise Team as well as other musicians and singers on the bill arrived donning their colourful 'T' Shirts inscribed with the most powerful name on Earth - Jesus and some of His attributes.

It was a great time to celebrate the Lord Jesus and #Edmages was on hand to capture some of the singers in their colourful shirts.

#Jesus #GW2025 #weareicgc #canonshots #icgcchristtempleeast  

Greater Works 2025...Day 5 (Climax)

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

It was a Jesus Night to reflect the theme of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), for the year 2025, or you could call it a night of celebration or an anointing for Greater Works night and you would not be wrong.

The climax of GW2025 had all these and more as the curtains came down at the ICGC annual meet, which was held at Christ Temple East (CTE) of the church at Teshie in Accra.

Prayers were also offered not only for Ghana, but the entire African continent, with General Overseer of the church, Ps. Mensa Otabil, mentioning all 54 countries by name.

GW2025 lived up to its billing as the greatest convocation of the church in the year with thousands of attendees, and what an experience it was!

Memories are sacred and #Edmages has a few to share from the last night which was spiced up with music from Reggae and Traditional choirs of ICGC, as well as Ps. Edwin Dadson, Minister Joe Mettle and the Soul Winners.

Were you there? Share your experience in the comments.

#GW2025 #weareicgc #Jesus #icgcchristtempleeast

Bongo goes home

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

Felix Oduro Mante, alias Bongo or Bongoman, born on January 4, 1982, kicked a bucket on June 29, 2025 after a short illness.

His body was interred on Saturday, August 9, 2025, after a funeral service at the Haatso Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses.

Until his call to the other world, Felix was a Lead Designer at the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL) which he joined on June 4, 2012.

He left behind a wife of five years - Eyram Asafo-Akoto, and two children - Giovanni and Eunice.

Present to bid him goodbye were family members, friends and loved ones, including staff of GCGL. Fare thee well Bongo, till we meet again.

#funeral #bongo #gcgl #dailygraphic #Edmages #canonshots

Greater Works 2025... Day 4

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

Bishop Tudor Bismark from Zimbabwe took congregants to the fourth gear of Greater Works 2025 and what an amazing time it was.

Supporting him in the drive were Ps. Mensa Otabil in the morning and Ps. Paul Adefarasin during the evening session.

Blessing congregants with their music ministry were also Ps. Edwin Dadson and Minister Joe Mettle for both sessions. What a time of refreshing on Day 4 and indeed we can only Go Forward as Ps. Bismark preached, after being so empowered in the four days.

You still have an opportunity to receive your blessings and be part of God's great family meeting if you have not joined yet. Today is the final day - Day 5 and it promises to be explosive, ending with an anointing service and extended Praise Jam. Come, be anointed for exploits in Jesus's Name and dance your sorrow away!

#Edmages #GW2025 #greaterworks #weareicgc #icgcchristtempleeast #canonshots

Greater Works 2025...Day 3

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

First it was fragrance, then it turned to fire! This completely describes the atmosphere on Day 3 of Greater Works yesterday at the International Central Gospel Church 2025 Greater Works Conference currently ongoing at the Christ Temple East arena at Teshie in Accra.

During his first appearance Nigerian Gospel Musician, Dunsin Oyekan took the congregants through worship singing well-known songs by other musicians, but when he appeared for the second dose on the night with his globally acclaimed Holy Spirit filled songs, everyone went into a frenzy.

The thousands of congregants all stood up till he was done dishing out songs from his repertoire and it could have been an all-night jamboree if that was the only item on the programme. It was also a night of powerful ministrations from Nigerian and global preachers Ps. Matthew Ashimolowo and Bishop Mike Okonkwo.

Before all the heat though was a solemn moment when Ps. Mensa Otabil informed the congregants of the tragedy that had befallen Ghana in the morning and led all to pray for the families and loved ones of the departed. 

Eight people lost their lives in the tragedy and included two Ministers of State - Dr Edward Omane Boamah, Defence Minister and Alhaji Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, three crew members of the Z9 helicopter that crashed soon after takeoff, Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, Deputy National Security Coordinator, Samuel Aboagye, a former MP and Samuel Sarpong, Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress.

#Edmages #GW2025 #greaterworks #weareicgc #icgcchristtempleeast #canonshots

Greater Works 2025...Day 2 (Random Shots & Portraits)

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

One of the features of all Greater Works Conferences that make it exciting is the taking of pictures to show that one was also present at the gathering of the saints.

In fact the environment and the atmosphere encourage selfies, personal and group shots. A couple of them captured by #Edmages on Day 2 can be found below.

#GW2025 #greaterworks #weareicgc #icgcchristtempleeast #canonshots

Greater Works 2025...Day 2 (ICGC stands in worship)

 Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

I can still hear the blasting trumpet echoing through the not too still night on Day 2 of the ICGC Greater Works Conference.

It took my mind to what the Bible says about the trumpet sounding when the Lord returns (For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel and with the [blast of the] trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. AMP 1 Thess 4:16).

Ps Nathaniel Bassey once again took congregants before the throne of grace and when everyone thought that was it, another minister noted for his intense worship songs - Dunsin Oyekan was introduced...and the roar from the crowd indi that the people of God were ready to continue in the Lord's beautiful presence.

And oh...ICGC stood in worship for the many things God has done for the church and individuals. So when afterwards guest preacher Ps Matthew Ashimolowo took the stage, it was a matter of course that he exhorted congregants on the power of the name JESUS and the indubitable fact that there is nothing that God cannot do. 

What a Day 2 it was! You still have today till Friday to experience the move of God in your life.

#GW2025 #greaterworks #weareicgc #icgcchristtempleeast #Edmages #canonshots

Greater Works 2025...Day 1

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

What an opening for the very much publicised Greater Works 2025 Conference. What a massive showing and move of the Holy Spirit.

It truly came down...and there were some intermittent showers of blessings as the Holy Spirit took His seat when Pastor Nathaniel Bassey blew his trumpet before Pastor Mensa Otabil addressed the congregants. 

If you were not there on the first night, do not miss the other days. Come enjoy Bigger, Better and Greater of God's blessings at the ICGC Christ Temple East Arena, Teshie in Accra today, August 5, through to Friday, August 8, 2025.

#GW2025 #weareicgc #Greaterworks2025 #Biggerbettergreater #icgcchristtempleeast

Visit to Istanbul's July 15 Memory Museum

 Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

To honour the memory of the about 253 citizens who lost their lives during the July 15, 2016 abortive coup in Türkiye, the country has built two museums - one in Ankara, and the other in Istanbul. 

At the recent commemoration of the 9th anniversary of the insurrection, some 200 local and international journalists covering the activities visited the Istanbul museum.

Find below some images captured during the visit.

#Edmages #canonshots #july15 #istanbuldiaries #museum

Emmanuel weds Susie (ES 2025)

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

On Saturday July 26, 2025, the long cherished dream of sweethearts, Emmanuel John-Teye and Susie Smith materialised. The two tied the knot in the presence of family and friends in Accra.

Below are some memorable captures of the beautiful event. Edmages wishes the two a lovely and fruitful lifelong journey together.

#wedding #ghanaianmarriage #celebrationoflove #emmanuel&susie #ES2025 #canonshots

View of beautiful Istanbul - Constantinople

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

Istanbul, formerly known by the Greek name Byzantium and later named Constantinople in honour of the Roman Emperor, Constantine the Great, is a city of many cultures because it has for centuries been a central point between Europe and Asia, where many connect to other cities and countries of the world.

The Istanbul Airport facilitates about 65,000 international connections monthly.

The city, the capital of the Istanbul Province, is divided into two by the Bosphorus Strait, with one half in Europe and the other in Asia.

The largest city in Europe and the commercial capital of Türkiye, the city was named Istanbul (in the city) on March 28, 1930, after the formation of the Republic of Turkey.

Istanbul, formerly the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire and then the Ottoman Empire, was  declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe.

The vast majority of the city's population is Muslim, with a minority being Christians and Jews.

#Edmages captured a few sites in the historic and ancient city during a visit on July 16, 2025, to commemorate the 9th anniversary of the July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day.

#canonshots #istanbul #Türkiye #july15 #democracy

Sights and Sounds of Ankara

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

I had the privilege of visiting the capital of Türkiye, Ankara, for the first time on July 14, 2025. I was there as part of a team of 120 international journalists covering the country's July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day.

It was also the commemoration of the 9th anniversary of the foiling of a devastating coup attempt on the country in 2016 that claimed the lives of over 250 of its citizens.

The current population of Ankara, Türkiye's second largest city, is estimated at 5,550,000.

Find some pictures of the amazing city captured by my lens.

#Edmages #canonshots #Ankara #Türkiye #july15

Tour of 15 July Democracy Museum, Ankara, Türkiye

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

Journalists numbering about 200 from all over the world, on Tuesday, July 15, 2015, were taken on a tour of the 15 July Democracy Türkiye Museum in Ankara, so named after an attempted coup to topple the government.

The visit was part of activities lined up to commemorate the ninth anniversary of that attempt and the bravery showed by both the military and civilians who even in the face of danger went out to resist the coup plotters and prevent them from succeeding in their mission.

It was revealing, informative and and emotional to see the length to which the Turkish government has gone to keep the memories of those who lost their lives during the deadly insurrection on July 15, 2016, alive, with photos, their names and real life wax images.

It was also a stark reminder of the destruction and the loss of lives coup d'états could visit on a country.

The exhibits at the museum also have a strong message for the visitor - Never Again!

Some images captured from the huge museum are shown below.

#Edmages #canonshots #july15 #Ankara #Türkiye

Licensed to preach...ICGC recognises 24 new pastors

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

On Saturday, May 24, 2025, the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC), licensed 24 pastors (including two ladies) from the Accra East and South Regions of the church at the ICGC Calvary Temple, Sakumono.

They are thus officially recognised as pastors of the ICGC church.

Below are some images from the ceremony.

#preachers #icgc #pastors #Edmages #canonshots

It's Platinum! Eld. Nick Akweh @70

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

Sunday, April 13, 2025 witnessed the platinum celebration of a father, husband, mentor, marriage counsellor extraordinaire and Elder of the household of faith, Nick Akweh.

For anyone who has known Elder Nick for long, he has been an elder for decades and he has looked youthful all these years. It's a wonder that he is now three score and 10.

Friends, family and church members and colleagues gathered at the Ancom Hotel, Golf City, Tema, to honour the man who deserves it all for the impact he has had on many lives.

Find below some exciting moments captured at the 70th Birthday Celebration of Elder Nick Akweh.

#elderakweh@70 #platinumcelebration #birthdaycelebration #Edmages #canonshots

Happy Mother's Day the PVV Way

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

The afros, bell-bottoms also known as flare pants and platforms (guarantees), plus the colourful dresses of the 1970s were in abundance as they were replayed on the eve of Mother's Day at the ICGC Holy Ghost Temple at Frafraha, near Adenta in Accra, on Saturday, May 10, 2025, by members of the Precious Vessels of Virtue (the women's ministry of the church).

 Some of the exciting dress-ups were captured for you.

#mothersday #fashion #pvv #icgcholyghosttemple #Edmages #phonegraphy

Matthew, Mark, mark Golden Jubilee...M & M@50

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

As if it had been planned from the Heavens, the Month of March has not only been a time for celebrations, but it has specifically been a time to be 50 years of age.

One of the golden jubilees celebrated on Sunday, March 30, 2025, was by twins, Matthew and Mark Neequaye in Tema.

What a joyous occasion it was indeed, as few friends and family rejoiced with the celebrants and thanked God for His goodness upon their lives. Indeed where would we all be without the mercies of our God.

Some of the joyous and emotional scenes are shared below.

#goldenjubilee #M&M@50 #birthday #fifthfloor #Edmages #canonshots.

Rev James Debrah@50... What a time of worship

 Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

Life, it is said, begins at 40 but attaining age 50 is seen as clocking the Golden Age. As such, celebrating this milestone is always seen as incontrovertible.

Well, for Rev. James Debrah, Pastor in charge of the Greener Pastures Chapel of the Full Gospel Church International (FGCI), Saki, Golf City near Tema, the best way to celebrate his acceptance to the Fifth Floor was by offering worship to the Almighty God. And what a time in His presence it was on Sunday, March 16, 2025!

Leading guests to the Throne room were Ministers Kweku Teye, Mary Adjabeng, Baaba and Rev. Shadrach.

View some moments captured by #Edmages below.

#RevJamesDebrah@50 #goldenjubilee #fifthfloor #birthday #canonshots

Emmanuel weds Esther (E & E 2025)

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

Emmanuel Nii Adjei, popularly know as Nii Sapp, on Saturday married his sweetheart, Esther Maame Adjoa Awuni at the Hope Chapel, Assemblies of God at Town Council Line, Accra.

The beautiful ceremony attracted family, friends and loved ones of both the groom and bride.

If you missed it, here are a few shots from Edmages who managed to combine this with some uncle duties at the event. We wish Mr and Mrs Adjei the best of married life and may they grow old together as husband and wife.

#Edmages #canonshots #married #weddingbells #E&E2025

Valentine's Day with Herty

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

Today, Friday, February 14, 2025, is a day designated as St. Valentine’s Day. However, the history as to how Valentine’s Day has come to be what we now know and celebrate, is somewhat murky.

One of the accounts says that St. Valentine served in third-century Rome when Emperor Claudius decided that single men made better soldiers. Therefore, Claudius banned soldiers from being married.

The story is that Valentine continued to perform the weddings of young soldiers who were in love, and Claudius had Valentine imprisoned. While imprisoned, Valentine reportedly fell in love with the jailer’s daughter. Valentine sent her a card and signed it, "Love, your Valentine."

Another version is that Valentine defied Claudius by helping Christians escape the torture of the Romans. Yet another account claims that the church may have decided to celebrate in mid-February to "Christianise" the pagan Roman celebration Lupercalia.

But whatever it is, Valentine's Day it has become accepted globally as a day to show affection and express love towards others by sharing gifts. The colour associated with the day is red, hence the sharing of some pictures of our model today in RED!

#valentinesday #love #red #Edmages #canonshots

Bright marries Lydia...ForeverBL24

 Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

As the year 2024 rolled to an end, many sweethearts decided to go to the altar to ensure they changed their status from single to married before they entered the coming year.

In line with that, on Friday December 13, 2024, Bright Aferi took to wife, his heartthrob who happens to be a daughter, Elisabeth Naa Martey, at the Holy Spirit Cathedral of the Catholic Church, Adabraka, in Accra.

Although a week day, the solemnisation of holy matrimony attracted a few friends, family members and parishioners.

Below are some scenes captured at the nuptials.

#Edmages #canonshots #wedding #marriage #solemnisation #ForeverBL24

E&J 2025...Ebo weds Jessica

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

On Saturday, January 11, 2025, Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson (Son of Hawk), joined the Table of Men when he made a wife out of his sweetheart, Jessica Otuko Akiti, and he himself became a husband, at the Holy Ghost Temple (HGT) of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) at Frafraha near Adenta in Accra.

"What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate" Mark 10:9

After the solemnisation of Holy Matrimony at the church, it was all celebration, dancing and merrymaking at the Luna Gardens, Oyarifa, Accra.

Edmages captured some scenes at Luna Gardens just for you. We wish the Hawksons well on this lifelong journey.

#wedding #marriage #solemnisation #Edmages #canonshots #E&J2025 #Ebowedsjessica

Welcome to the 5th floor Gifty

Pictures by Edmund Smith-Asante. All Rights Reserved ©

You will not know how five decades on planet earth feels like until you attain the golden age.

So it was that on January 5, 2025, Banker, Gifty Essel, climbed floor five and called some few friends to celebrate the goodness of God with her. It is always a good thing to give thanks to God.

Some scenes were captured at the small but exciting meet with the Golden Girl, Gifty. Feast your eyes.

#gifty@50 #goldenjubilee #birthdaygirl #Edmages #canonshots #thankfulheart