Brochure_Mama Emily

GYATEWA Afful (Nee Mould) 1923-2023 1

Emily ARABA GYATEWA AFFUL, OUR MOTHER ARABA GYATEWA A great and mighty tree you are Surrounded by waves of love Surrounded by seeds of love We will remember you As a flowing stream of life ARABA GYATEWA From your love we grow Even ants and termites And birds have with your refuge found So have we. We love you. ARABA GYATEWA Fly to us and we shall fly to you With flower, with love, Now and forever more. 2



ORDER OF SERVICE BURIAL & THANKSGIVING SERVICE OFFICIATING MINISTERS 1. REV. DR. FRANCIS SEY - GENERAL OVERSEER – F.G.C. - GENERAL SECRETARY – F.G.C. 2. REV. NATHANIEL LARYEA - F.G.C. MAMPROBI - F.G.C. OFARKOR 3. REV ISAAC SARBAH - F.G.C. MAMPROBI 4. REV. DR. ERIC ASARE-BOAFO 5. ELDER KENNETH V. ACOLATSE MINISTERS IN ATTENDANCE 1. APOSTLE GENERAL SAM KORANKYE ANKRAH 2. REV. CHARLES NEEQUAYE 3. REV. ROBERT NOMO 4. REV. FR. GEORGE E. O. AMOO 5. PROPHET SAMUEL HAMMOND 6. REV. EDWARD ARYEE 7. REV. WALTER WRISTBERG AT THE ORGAN 1. REV. SETH ASARE 2. BRO. ISAAC SARBAH JNR. PART ONE PRE-BURIAL SERVICE 1. Opening Prayer 2. File Past 3. Closing Of Casket PART TWO BURIAL & THANKSGIVING SERVICE 1. Announcement Of Purpose 2. Opening Prayer 4

3. Songs Of Praise 4. Hymn – “Through All The Changing Scenes Of Life” – MHB 427 5. 1st Scripture Reading – I Cor.15:50-57 6. Hymn - “Hark! Hark My Soul! Angelic Songs Are Swelling” - MHB 651 7. 2nd Scripture Reading – 1 Thess.4:13-18 8. Hymn – “In Heavenly Love Abiding” - RH 473 9. Biography/ Tributes 10. Hymn – “I Will Sing The Wondrous Story” - RH 612 11. Offertory For The Church 12. Family Ministration 13. Word Ministration – Rev. Dr. Francis Sey 14. Hymn - “When The Trumpet Of The Lord Shall Sound” - Rh 763 15. Prayer For The Family – Rev. Nathaniel Laryea 16. Choir Ministration 17. Offertory For The Family / Announcements 18. The Hallelujah Chorus 19. Closing Prayer/Benediction - Rev. Dr. Eric Asare-Boafo 20. Lifting Of Coffin 21. Recessional Song - “Come Ye That Love The Lord . . . ” - Rh 714 PART THREE AT THE GRAVESIDE 1. Consolation 2. Hymn – “Abide with me; Fast falls the eventide” - RH797 3. Committal 4. Prayer 5. Laying of wreaths 6. Farewell Hymn - “God be with you till we meet again” - RH 722 7. Concluding Prayer 8. Vote of Thanks 9. Departure blessings by Minister 10. Benediction and Dispersal 5

Biography OF THE LATE MRS EMILY ARABA GYATEWA AFFUL (NEE MOULD) AKA PLEASE MA “Do not go where the path may lead Go instead where there is no path And leave a trial” RALPH WALDO EMERSON Mrs Emily Araba Gyatewa Afful was born on Thursday, the 10th of May, 1923 In James Town Accra to Mr Francis Jacob Mould and Madam Jemima Thompson. Her birth marked the beginning of a generation in the Mould family tree as she became the first grandchild of Mr William Jacob Mould of the Ghartey Family of Winneba, a colonial civil servant resident in James Town – Accra. Araba Gyatewa started her primary education in Sekondi in the Western Region of Ghana and completed at the Accra Government Girls School in 1939. By the grace of God, Araba Gyatewa still in her teens got married to a wonderful and handsome gentleman by name Mr John albert Afful a.k.a. Paa Jerry of blessed memory on Valentine’s Day in the year of our lord 1942. It is therefore not surprising that this union experienced a modern day “Romeo and Juliet” kind of love which lasted thirty-three years to the glory of God. This romance however came to an abrupt end in the afternoon of Tuesday, the 28th of October, 1975. Indeed, true to their solemn vow, it took death to part them. Their unique marriage was blessed with eleven children comprising of five boys and six girls. Unfortunately, two of her children predeceased her; John Albert Affful and Francis Jacob Afful who was named after his maternal grandfather. 6

She worked for some years with the bank of Ghana as a cash counter. It can be easily said that all her life was devoted to God and dedicated to a cycle of raising her children and some of the grandchildren. “PLEASE MA” was a stickler for politeness and would insist on the words of “please” and “thank you” in our verbal interactions with others, especially our elders. In the end it became easier for us when we approached her to just say “please ma” before starting any conversation to avoid an inevitable reprimand should we forget our manners. The title has stuck over the years. In the early eighties she gave her life to the Lord Jesus Christ and joined the Mamprobi branch of the foursquare gospel church in Ghana and remained a faithful member until her demise. Much as we hoped and prayed that Aba Gyatewa would make it to the 10th of May to enable us celebrate her centenary, our good lord had a different plan. Mrs Emily Afful passed peacefully into glory in the early hours of Monday, the 2nd of January, 2023 after a short illness. She is survived by nine children, seventeen grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren and a great, great-grandchild, a brother, a number of cousins, nephews and nieces, a host of family members and friends to mourn her. Please ma, have a peaceful rest. 7

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Tribute by Children NII DODOO Mum led her life to the fullest. She loved charity and was always doing things for others. I cannot thank you enough for all your love. You treated everyone with dignity and respect. Your patience, love, care and long suffering are all evidence that you manifested the fruits of the Holy Spirit, a very necessary indicator of a true child of God. I plead the father in heaven to guide the loved ones you have left behind. Till we meet again beyond the blue skies. Rest in perfect peace. TRIBUTE BY AGNES AFFUL Mother of mothers. ‘Please ma’ was what we called you. With the dream of your Grandfather (Faa) to be a teacher, you trained us before we started school and we knew who were are and who we came from. Oh Pleasema, you raised me up to be a responsible woman and a mother for all ages including you. I remember at age 5 you gave me ‘Gifty,’ my baby doll, which was always at my back as I helped you with the house chores being your first daughter. At age 9, when you were sick in Kumasi, the family tasted my first meal at the table. Aba, my dearest, to me you were not only a mother but also a friend, a sister and a destiny partner. I cherish you as a special gift from God. You will always be in my heart. Pleasema, rest peacefully in the bosom of your maker till we meet again. 9

TRIBUTE BY JOYCE LAMPTEY Please Maa, as I affectionately called you. I thank God for the long years he has allowed me to enjoy a mum like you. I came down from USA to help nurture you to good health during your last month and was looking forward to celebrating your 100 years. Little did I know, that I had just a little time to spend with you. On the morning of 2nd January, 2023, our God called you to his peaceful and beautiful kingdom to rest. Please Maa, thank you for raising me and my siblings, grandchildren and all your extended families around the world. I will miss our phone calls, visits, hugs and kisses. May your beautiful soul rest in prefect peace with the Lord. Love you so much. Your daughter Joyce. TRIBUTE BY NII OTTO ‘Please Ma’ as we affectionately called her was so dear to my heart. Out of the eleven children, I was the only one privileged to share the same day of birth with her. As Thursday borns, we had a special bond. Her birthday celebrations were never complete without me sharing her traditional birthday meal of mashed yam with palm oil and eggs. For so many years, she would always search through her wardrobe to find something to present to me as my birthday present. On her 99th birthday last year, I had the singular honour to cut the birthday cake with her. I feel very honoured that on several occasions she allowed me to hold her tenderly in my arms like lovers in the presence of some siblings. My greatest joy is that please ma extended the same love she had for me to my dear wife for over forty-two years. Mama rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord. 10

REMEMBERING MAMA BY GRACE NEEQUAYE Mama was a great woman who was taking care of ten strong kids. Growing up, we all enjoyed your very best cooking; your curried shrimp stews, your jam tarts, rice and bread pudding etc. I remember those days when you jumped up to my calls from Apam where I was schooling. My resemblance to you earned me the name “Aunty Gyatewa Bibio” from family. Still fresh in my mind is when during the transportation crisis of 1979, you walked from Bank of Ghana to visit me at Korle- Bu Teaching Hospital where I had been admitted following a short illness. When leaving, you would whisper in my ears “Your name ‘Grace’ will keep you”. Due to your natural talent with designing and sewing clothes, three of your girls took after you. I worked with you for many years doing what we both loved best: sewing, at D2M till I got married. During your latter years, I tried taking you to live with me and my family but being the mother and shepherd that you are and have always been, you argued that you could not leave your home and other children, especially your ‘Older Boys’ I miss the deep things we shared from your childhood into marriage till recent times. Mama, you have left but you have made a mark. Many mothers have done excellently but you surpass them all. I cannot thank you enough and will miss you sorely. ABA JAT, Emily darling, Yawo ojogban till we meet again Your Grace. TRIBUTE BY NAA OTTOBIA KAYEDE My sweet mum, for many years I have been your nurse and chef just because of my closeness to you at home ( just like the hen and her chick). I did all this because of the training you gave me from my infancy. You taught me how to be serviceable where ever I found myself in life. As serviceable as you were, we called you Dr. Gilespy and “Emily rushed down”. Please Maa, the most loving and caring mother I have ever known. The mother with a big heart for all her children. Even at my age, you never closed your eyes to sleep till you saw me return from any of my outings. You cared so much for me. Now Maa, I look around and there is no one to administer drugs to or serve meals. I miss relaxing and enjoying the fresh air with you. I thank you for all that you did for me in this life. You will forever remain in my heart. Please Maa, Atta is missing you. Please Maa yaawo ojogbaa!! Atta. 11

TRIBUTE BY KATE OTOO Avirtuous woman, who can find. Her price is far above rubies. She openeth her mouth with wisdom, and in her tongue is the law of kindness. Such is my mum. I am privileged I had you as part of my life. Words cannot express who you are. A God-fearing, strong-willed lady whose instincts are accurate and ever ready to correct us when we erred. A lady full of life and fashionable to the core especially on Sundays. After daddy’s demise all these years mum stood through thick and thin and by God’s Grace was able to care for us all. You are always concerned about us, your children, our education and well-being. Whenever Mum saw me her only concern was how the shop was running. The response to the reply I always gave was “It shall be well”. We had a song we used to sing when we needed something from her, “mami w)ba, kee w) noko ni w) ya”, then with a quick smile she’ll just get up, pull open the drawer and it is settled. What a woman, what a mother, what a mentor. We had a wonderful time with you. I am proud of you. The heart you have is amazing. Your profound memories will forever be in my heart. Ayekoo Araba, you have fought a good fight, you have finished your course and have kept the faith. March on, victory awaits you. Mummy the night has fallen. Sleep well. Saafi. TRIBUTE BY HENRY SATORIOUS BANNERMAN AFFUL My darling Aba, I cannot imagine what my life would have been without your astounding love and care for me. You are the true picture of motherhood. The love and kindness you exhibited is truly amazing. My mother was a very beautiful, intelligent, fun loving, diligent in her work. She loved all but loved me dearly. I always recall when mum travelled with sister Grace to Nigeria to look for me during the “Ghana must go” days. I remember how she was screaming “my children, Saabo -Ayibo” when she boarded a bus in Lagos but sister Grace and I couldn’t board the bus due to the speeding of the bus. Her love for her children was unmatched. She displayed the shepherd kind of love described in the Bible; she left the Ninety-Nine and came to look for her one (me). Mama was a generous mother as she always extended help anytime she found out that I was in some financial crises. She never withheld any assistance from me. In the period of my illness, Mama always found a way to check up on me. She would knock my door until I responded and allowed her in. Aba Gyat as I affectionately called her, was a disciplinarian. She never spared the rod anytime there was the need to put us in check of our behaviour. She did well to instil discipline in all her children. Thank you for all you did for my children. I will miss you dearly Aba Gyat!! Rest in peace. Yaawo j1o2gban!! Amanor.

TRIBUTE BY IRIS AFFUL Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing but a woman who fears the Lord shall be praised. Proverbs 31:30. “My Mother” as the Kindergarten kids would recite; There is no one like a mother to me. No matter how she may be. I will travel over the land and over the sea, But there is no one like Please Maa to me. “Oh my baby”, “Aunty Baby” was how she called me in her last days whenever she needed assistance. This really touched my heart and made our bond stronger. Maa was the most beautiful and wonderful gift I received from the Almighty God. She was loving and caring. She was the strong pillar I needed in my life. I could easily approach her for advice anytime I was at a crossroad in my life. Her advices were always on point and helped me in many ways. Her love for God and His word got me committed to church activities. Mama helped me carry some of my burden. I remember when I fell ill, as old as Mama was, she would climb the stairs, not hearing her footsteps but the sound of her wedding band against the metal rails, to ask “Te oyo ten”, “Oye nii”, “Ebaa hi onu”. Mama, I miss you paa. I miss how you checked up on my children every morning asking “Ob etee lo? “Jesse, ye dzen?” Mama, your Baby misses you very much. Indeed until death do us part! Mama Yaa Wo Dzogbaa!! Your Baby. 13

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Tribute by BROTHER AND SISTER-IN-LAW To my older sister Emily. I love you with all my heart. My heart is broken at your passing. My tears will never end. I will always remember your beautiful smile and kind soul. Even though I live many many miles away, I always felt close to you. I will always have wonderful memories of us (Emily, Maria, CA and myself ) growing up. I will carry on our family legacy with love and respect. Emily Gyatewa Afful (Nee Mould) my big sister, you will always be in my heart. I love you. Owu-Ra-Aku. Love from Ellen, Sharon, Maxine and Tina. Tribute by TRIBUTE BY GRANDCHILDREN Grandmaa, today your grandchildren are sad about your demise yet proud to pay tribute to you. Please Maa was a special woman in every sense of the word “special”. Her heart was full of love and embraced everyone that come her way. She was indeed a mother of mothers and a mother for all. During our childhood days, we were always very excited anytime our mothers informed us about spending the day at grandmaa’s house. Aside meeting up with other cousins during that day, we also shared quality time with her. We cannot forget how we used to play and run around the house, making noise, which often made her upset, and caused her to give us nicknames such as “oflifon” Our lovely grandma was a great disciplinarian; she eschewed any form of disrespect and would not hes- itate to give you a stern warning for misbehaving. She was a diligent woman who cared so much about keeping up the home. She would always go around the house, inspecting and making sure every corner was clean; hence gained the nickname, “Inspector of Domestic Affairs”. We already miss how you used 15

frequently changed the set up in your bedroom, asking us to pull out the weeds from the flowers, dusting windows cleaning cobwebs, washing kitchen napkins. Gosh, we always said to ourselves “Grandmaa likes work too much”. Please Maa was a woman of great faith, even though she could not go to church regularly in her old age, she connected her faith to God by reading the bible, singing hymns, watching and praying with word based Christian Preachers. She never missed the news and was an avid reader of the dailies. She always complained about the state of the world’s economy after watching Aljazeera and other international news. We were always puzzled with the questions she posed to us about the Ghanaian economy even at her old age; and by that, we were very sure she would have been a professor if she has advanced in her education. 16

“Sexy Yoomo” was one of her many nicknames we gave her. She loved to look good in her appearance. She loved beautiful dresses, loved perfumery from Avon, loved good make up and was always ready to take pictures. We will miss the wonderful photo shoots we had with her on Sunday afternoons after church. Your memories will continue to live in our hearts. Your name “Emily” will continue to be with us as we have already named two of your great-grand daughters such. Today we proudly say we love you because you first loved us. Thank you Grandmaa for all the prayers you made for us, thank you for being there for us, thank you for the cash tips and gifts you gave to us in secret, thank you for loving us. Thank you for the many advice you gave to us about life, marriage and being obedient. Thank you for disciplining us. Grandmaa, Please Maa, Empor, Inspector-General of Domestic Affairs, Sexy Yoomo, Aba Gyatewa, Mrs. Afful, 1942 etc. Yaa wo dzogbaa!! God be with you till we meet again!! 17

TRIBUTE TO OUR ELDEST MOULD SIBLING Christened in 1923 as EMILY ABA GYATEWA MOULD, but known as Sister Gyatewa by us, she was the eldest of four children, borne by FRANCIS JACOB MOULD & JEMIMA THOMPSON. Her father- Papa Franco was the eldest child of our grandparents, JACOB MOULD & MARY MOULD (nee VanDerPuije). Papa Franco was an uncle who many of us first cousins never knew since he passed away very early in 1952. The older generation of cousins remember those glorious days of Jamestown, British Accra of which our cousin Gyatewa and the older Mould cousins were part of. Those were the days fondly remembered by attendance at the Accra Turf Club, long dresses, fine teas, and wearing sandals to school. That was the epoch of cousin Gyatewa. The “good old days” epitomised the pre-independence days of the Gold Coast. Our cousin was married at an early age to the love of her life, John Albert Afful. Amazingly, she bore him 11 children, two of whom pre- deceased her. We always had a giggle and a laugh about numbers 1-11 children. Yet, they were all devoted to her and eased the necessity to care for her considerably. She was the most open, most loving, most kind, and most generous of spirit of all of us 77 first cousins of the 11 Mould siblings. She took her responsibility as the eldest cousin 18

very seriously and even though marriage took Sonny, Alex; Lady’s surviving children: Ate, her away to “faraway” Chorkor, she would be Mary Akuorkor & Adala Tawiah; Owulakojo’s present at every single family meeting, every surviving children - Susan & Mary; Nanaa’s outdooring, and every funeral of all of us. She surviving children: George K.A. Ofosu-Amarh; knew us all and even our children by name and Daisy’s surviving daughter: Mavis; Kate ‘s for years would call monthly over the phone surviving children: Doris Mooley & James when she couldn’t physically come and visit. Allotey; Awuraba’s surviving children: Bella, She had such a wonderful memory, which Mama & Ade; Pa Tommy’s surviving children: made her our family historian right into her ‘90s. George King Ghartey, Tommy Nee-Kofi, John On our frequent visits to her home over the past Baby Anan, Joyce Abena Akyere & finally decade, we marvelled at her agility! She would Phyllis Leekua’s surviving children: Constance, rather support us - the younger generation - to Ray & Ablorh. steady our walking. From all of us, your first generation cousins of Cousin Gyatewa - you will be sorely missed the Mould family who were planning your 100th by all of us - the surviving children of the year celebration this year May, we say, “ Ya wo 11 Mould siblings: Pa Kruger’s surviving Ojogbaa” - you will be forever in our hearts. children: Desmond Bibii, Diana Baby, Victoria Naa- Akuyea; Pa Kwesi ‘s surviving children: Herman Owulaku, Miranda Naa- Abiah, Victor Owulakojo, Americana Awa, Betty Nah-Akuyea, Jacob Nii Addy, William Nee-Lante, Joan, 19

TRIBUTE BY IN-LAW – MERCY B. AFFUL Please Ma thank you for your love, care and everything you did for me. I really appreciate you and already miss your presence. I realized you had a soft spot in your heart for me and my family. I sometimes wondered why? Is it because you had a special bonding with my husband? As if that was not enough you extended this love to my siblings. You always asked how they were faring anytime we visited you. We were all planning to celebrate your centenary with you, but God’s ways are not are ways. You will be forever remembered. Sleep well Please Ma. TRIBUTE BY IN-LAW – CHARLES NEEQUAYE “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth. Yea, saith the Spirit that they may rest from their Labours; and their works do follow them”. – Rev. 14:13. It is with great sadness but also with great honour that I pay this tribute to my one and only mother-in-law; Mrs Emily Gyatewa Afful nee Mould, who we affectionately called “Please Maa”. She was a mother-in-law I grew to love, respect and cherish so much. A very welcoming and receptive person who never meddled in the married lives of her children. “Please Maa”, your departure has left a void that no one can fill; but our consolation is that you are resting in the bosom of the Father. We love you Please Maa and will miss you more than words can express! Fare thee well! Yaa wc ojogbann! 20

TRIBUTE BY IN-LAW – DANIEL KAYEDE Naturally, we know death would come to us all but this is too unexpected as I had just visited you a few weeks ago with a promise of returning back to Ghana for your 100 years celebration. I cherished you, for you were an inspiration and a gift to me. Your demise has created a vacuum in my heart; a void which cannot be filled. You touched lives in a very special and different way, the memories of which are still fresh in my mind. I held you in high esteem, my loving, patient and wonderful mother-in-law. I know you are with Jesus enjoying eternity in heaven. Fare thee well! Yaa wc ojogbann. TRIBUTE BY IN-LAW – HENRY OTOO Alight from my life has been dimmed, a voice I love to hear is still, a place has become vacant in my heart, which can never be filled, a bouquet of beautiful memories sprayed with a million tears that cannot stop flowing. I wish God could have spared your life for a few more years. You stood and accepted me the day I stepped into your home. You showed my family an endless love till your last breath. Today I proudly say there’s no mother in-law like you. You were like my biological mother. I am proud of you. Please Ma as you were affectionately called, was a great heroine. The loss of gold is much, the loss of time is more but the loss of a great and loving mother-in-law in the person of Mrs Emily Gyatewa Afful is such a loss that cannot be replaced. All I can say is, Fare thee well Please Ma. Sleep peacefully in the bosom of your maker. 21

TRIBUTES FROM NEPHEWS AND NIECES “Auntie Gyatewa has always been an “The only thing that walks back from the tomb inspiration to me as far as I can remember with the mourners and refuses to be buried, growing up. Her smile, perpetual calmness is the character of the person”. This is true of and assurance demeanour puts you in a you Aunty Gyatewa, aka please Maa. Your safe environment whenever you are around nature, character, love for everybody cannot her. She will surely be missed by all. May Her be buried with you. Your demise has created a Beautiful Soul Rest In Eternal Peace.” Amen. big vacuum in my heart. Mama, rest in perfect peace. Amen. YOOKWESI NANA NSADUA. Our dear aunty Gyatewa. Beautiful till the end. Her immaculate dressing Auntie Gyatewa, you were a wonderful complete with beautiful pearls and and a special auntie who loved all makeup was always a lovely sight to behold. your nieces and nephews very much She loved us all dearly. Always smiling and like your own children. I loved you back. You we reciprocated. We will miss her but we’re were a prim and prop lady, glamorous to happy she’s enjoying Paradise with her dear a fault. You have indeed run your race and sisters. Sweet Aunty, rest peacefully till we finished your course faithfully. Rest eternally meet again. Amen. in the arms of your Maker. Amen. AMAZIA SISI DEAR. Dear aunty Gyatewa, distance did not Ooh, our dearest Auntie Gyatewa, the allow me to enjoy all the goodies u oldest of the Mould clan, until death represent. I am sad but the good Lord laid its icy hands on you. I remember knows best. Rest peacefully in the bosom of growing up, we used to look forward to the the Lord. Enjoy eternal peace and rest. Amen. yearly Homowo parties in your home. It was such a delightful experience with so much to MAAME. 22

eat and drink. We were planning to celebrate your 100th birthday in grand style, but I guess the good Lord knows best. We will miss you very much. Rest peacefully dearest Auntie in the bosom of the Lord. Amen. NAANA Auntie Gyatewa’s house was always a fun place to visit growing up! I remember when we used to go visit her and her family… we all enjoyed it so much. I was always intrigued even until just recently at the stories she would tell. She always kept us captivated with her wit! Auntie Gyatewa, we will miss you so much but we are comforted by the fact that you will be singing hymns with all your sisters again!!! RIP. Amen KING GHARTEY 23

TRIBUTE The Foursquare Gospel Church, Mamprobi Branch “There is a time for everything, And a season for every activity under heaven: A time to be born and a time to die.” Eccl 3:1-2 Congratulations dear mother, sister and friend on your ascension to your Maker. Your mission on earth has been accomplished and it is now time for you to join your heavenly Father as a reward for your courage, faith and all the good deeds you carried through during your sojourn on earth. We pay this tribute to our mother and grandma with joy and excitement in our hearts. Mrs Emily Afful, affectionately called “Please Ma,” joined the church about 40 years ago. “Please Ma” has fought a good fight, she has finished the race; she has kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for her the Crown of Righteousness which the Lord, the Righteous Judge, will give to her on that Day…” Here lies the mortal remains of our beloved mother, friend, sister, grandmother, an advisor and a motivator – the late Mrs Emily Afful. She was 100 years; the oldest we have ever had. We celebrate a life well lived! Please Ma was a loving and caring member, and her contribution to the things of God was awesome. She helped to train and nurture young ladies in the church, some of whom have grown and are married to responsible men. She did what she could to be in service when she had enough strength. As age caught up with her, we begun to miss her presence in our services. Whenever she could not make it to church, she made sure her offerings and tithe were brought to the church. She did not miss church much except the physical contacts, because she had a way of knowing what transpired in church through members who visited her and her daughter Elder Agnes Afful; as time went on it became apparent that, she could no longer be in church because of her age and physical strength. The church consistently visited, prayed with her and served her communion every first Sunday of the month. She made it her life-style that she wouldn’t eat anything on Communion days until she first take the communion. 24

She also made sure that, all her grown up children who couldn’t make it to their various churches take part in the communion. That showed how caring and loving she was as a Christian mother. When we heard of her failing health during the last quarter of last year, the church never failed to earnestly and constantly pray to God for her. On Sunday 1st January 2023, as usual, the church was at her residence to serve her communion not knowing that was to be her last communion. Prior to the time of the communion, she had not been able to eat anything, which the family was so worried about, but when she heard that communion was about to be served, immediately her face was beamed with joy unspeakable and full of glory. She took it with ease and joy. The following day, (January 2, 2023) we woke up to see on the church’s platform that our mother, grandmother, auntie, and all that she was to all of us, had passed on peacefully into glory. We received the news of her demise with missed feelings, but we know that she served her Maker well and she is resting very peacefully in His bosom. Mrs. Emily Afful, Yaa Wc Jogbang, Ye Nuntscl3 Mli. “Please Ma,” sleep well in the Lord till the resurrection day! AMEN!! 25

TRIBUTE FOURSQUARE WOMEN INTERNATIONAL (FWI) – MAMPROBI BRANCH COME YE THAT LOVE THE LORD AND LET YOUR JOYS BE KNOWN JOIN IN A SONG WITH SWEET ACCORD, AND THUS SURROUND THE THRONE WE ARE MARCHING TO ZION, BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL ZION WE ARE MARCHING UPWARDS TO ZION, THE BEAUTIFUL CITY OF GOD - RH 714 Foursquare Mmaa! Y3 wc cdc! Foursquare Mmaa! Y3 wc cdc ma Nyame ejuma!! Awww! The oldest tree that gives us inspiration and shelter has fallen. Our dear member, Mrs Emily Afful, affectionately called ‘Please Maa’ has been called home by her maker at a ripe age of almost 100 years. We as a group are very sad at the news of her demise. However we are grateful to God for satisfying her with long life and calling her peacefully home. She was an example of what the Lord said in Isaiah 46:4 “Even to your old age and grey hair, I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you, I will sustain you and I will rescue you” This is the testimony of our dear mum. ‘Please Maa’ joined the women’s group when she was fairly old. Consequently, she could not play a very active role in our activities. However, whenever she could, she attended our meetings; she also paid her dues regularly and honoured all other obligations to the group. She was present during Sunday church services till old age had a toll on her. ‘Please Maa’ was a very affable person and went on well with everybody. She opened her home to us and felt so elated whenever we visited; you would find her well dressed and made up ready to receive us. She was a good conversationist, at times sharing her past experiences in her marriage with us, she will often say we should always hold on tight to God. She had a store of humility and wisdom and we never got bored in her presence. To some of us she was the mother and grandmother we never had. She was indeed a virtuous woman whose life taught us to be good wives and mothers. It is not easy to say good-bye to someone who has been part of our lives and had imparted so much in us. The ‘May borns’ in our group will always remember her on their birthdays because she will come as a typical British lady. 26

Please Maa, we will miss you dearly especially your spiritual daughters and grand- daughters: Patience, Patricia, Mama Luu, Comfort and Pat Acolatse. Our condolences to the family and it is our prayer that our good God will comfort you all. ‘Please Maa,’ you lived your God-given life to the fullest, March on to the beautiful city of God and take your crown of glory that awaits you. Fare thee well our mother and sister, have a beautiful sleep in the bosom of the Lord. ‘Pease Maa’ Rest in perfect peace Amen. ‘Please Maa,’ yaa wc ojogbaan!! 27

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HYMNS Through All the Changing Scenes of Life Till morning’s joy shall end the night of weeping, And life’s long shadows break in cloudless love. 1. Through all the changing scenes of life, In trouble and in joy, In Heavenly Love Abiding The praises of my God shall still My heart and tongue employ. 1. In heavenly love abiding, No change my heart shall fear; 2. O, magnify the Lord with me, And safe is such confiding, With me exalt His name; For nothing changes here: When in distress to Him I called, The storm may roar without me, He to my rescue came. My heart may low be laid; But God is round about me, 3. The hosts of God encamp around And can I be dismayed? The dwelling of the just; Deliverance He affords to all 2. Wherever He may guide me, Who on His succour trust. No want shall turn me back; My Shepherd is beside me, 4. O make but trial of His love; And nothing can I lack: Experience will decide His wisdom ever waketh, How blest they are, and only they, His sight is never dim; Who in His truth confide. He knows the way He taketh, And I will walk with Him. 5. Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then Have nothing else to fear; 3. Green pastures are before me, Make you His service your delight, Which yet I have not seen; He’ll make your want His care. Bright skies will soon be o’er me, Where the dark clouds have been: Hark, Hark, My Soul! Angelic Songs Are Swelling My hope I cannot measure, My path to life is free; 1. Hark, hark, my soul! Angelic songs are swelling My Saviour has my treasure, O’er earth’s green fields and ocean’s wave-beat And He will walk with me. shore; How sweet the truth those blessed strains are I Will Sing the Wondrous Story telling Of that new life when sin shall be no more. 1. I will sing the wondrous story Of the Christ Who died for me; Angels of Jesus, Angels of light, How He left His home in glory, For the Cross on Calvary. Singing to welcome the pilgrims of the night. Yes, I will sing the wondrous story 2. Onward we go, for still we hear them singing: Of the Christ who died for me; “Come, weary souls, for Jesus bids you come;” Sing with the saints in glory And through the dark, its echoes sweetly ringing, Gathered by the crystal sea. The music of the gospel leads us home. 2. I was lost; but Jesus found me— 3. Far, far away, like bells at evening pealing, Found the sheep that went astray; The voice of Jesus sounds o’er land and sea, Threw His loving arms around me, And laden souls by thousands meekly stealing, Drew me back into His way. Kind Shepherd, turn their weary steps to Thee. 3. I was bruised but Jesus healed me— 4. Angels, sing on, your faithful watches keeping; Sing us sweet fragments of the songs above, 37

Faint was I from many a fall; 3. The hill of Zion yields Sight was gone and fear possessed me A thousand sacred sweets; But He freed me from them all. Before we reach the heavenly fields, Or walk the golden streets. 4. He will keep me till the river Rolls its waters at my feet; 4. Then let our songs abound, Then He’ll bear me safely over, And every tear be dry; Where the loved ones I shall meet. We’re marching through Immanuel’s ground To fairer worlds on high. WHEN the Trumpet of the Lord Abide With Me! Fast Falls the Eventide 1. When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, 1. Abide with me! fast falls the eventide; and time shall be no more, The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide! And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and When other helpers fail and comforts flee, fair; Help of the helpless, oh, abide with me. When the saved of earth shall gather over on the 2. I need Thy presence every passing hour: other shore, What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there. power? Who like Thyself my guide and stay can be? When the roll is called up yonder, Through cloud and sunshine, oh, abide with When the roll is called up yonder, me. When the roll is called up yonder, When the roll is called up yonder, 3. I fear no foe, with Thee at hand to bless: I’ll be there. Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness: Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy 2. On that bright and cloudless morning when the victory? dead in Christ shall rise, I triumph still, if Thou abide with me. And the glory of his resurrection share; When his chosen ones shall gather to their God Be With You Till We Meet Again home beyond the skies, 1. God be with you till we meet again, And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there. By His counsels guide uphold you, With His sheep securely fold you; 3. Let us labour for the Master God be with you till we meet again! from the dawn till setting sun, Let us talk of all his wondrous love and care; Till we meet, till we meet, Then when all of life is over, Till we meet at Jesus feet, and our work on earth is done, Till we meet, till we meet; And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there. God be with you till we meet again! Come, Ye That Love the Lord 2. God be with till we meet again, ’Neath His wings protecting hide you, 1. Come, ye that love the Lord, Daily manna still provide you; And let your joys be known; God be with you till we meet again! Join in a song with sweet accord, And thus surround the throne. 3. God be with till we meet again, Keeps love’s banner floating o’er you, We’re marching to Zion, Smite death’s threatening wave before you: Beautiful, beautiful Zion; God be with you till we meet again! We’re marching upward to Zion, The beautiful city of God. 2. Let those refuse to sing, Who never knew our God; But children of the heavenly King Shall speak their joys abroad. 38



Appreciation The entire family of GYATEWA Afful (Nee Mould) wishes to express their profound gratitude to all those who sympathised with us. We truly appreciate your love, support and generous donation. May the Good Lord richly bless you! Print Innovation 0267771670