A L I F E W E L L L I V E D S A T U R D A Y 3 R D O F O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6 1 0 : 0 0 I N T H E M O R N I N G B E T H E L P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H , L A
LAYING IN STATE AT AHIMAKO WE AT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF GHANA BETHEL CONGREGATION – LA SATURDAY 3RD OCTOBER, 2026 , 10:00AM nest lvanus otei O R D E R O F S E R V I C E O F T H E L A T E 1 S T D E C E M B E R 1 9 3 2 - 2 9 T H J U L Y 2 0 2 6 OFFICIATING MINISTERS Rev. Lionel Nii Odartey Marquis Cat. Emmanuel Ofoli Quaye Rev. George Anyetei Tsakle Cat. Samuel Obodai Anang PART 1- FUNERAL SERVICE Scriptural Sentence / Salutation -do- Prayer -do- Hymn PH 477:1-3 -do- Processional Hymn PH 468:1-3 -do- Call to Worship Catechist Hymn PH 777 :1-3 -do- Hymn PH 508:1-3 -do- Tribute (3) -do- Hymn PH 502:1-3 -do- Scripture Reading Pres. Rejoice Mensah Biography Family Member Sermon / Creed Minister Offertory Organist Pres. Dinah Namoaley Prayer of Thanksgiving PH 794:1-3 Minister Christian Charity Organist Pres. Dinah Namoaley Benediction Rev. George Anyetei Tsakle Recessional Hymn PH 787:1-3 -do- Announcement -do- PART 2- THE GRAVESIDE Prayer and Committals Minister Sentences/Exhortation -do- Benediction Hymn PH 792: 1-2 -do- Hymn (Ashienye/Ashietse) -do- Vote of Thanks Family Member Hymn PH 791: 1-3 Minister Hymn PH 818: 1-2 Catechist
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Colossians 3:23 (ESV)
biphy so whether we live or die we belong to the Lord " Romans 14: 7-8. " For none of us lives for ourselves alone and none of us dies for ourselves alone. If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord, E A R L Y L I F E | 02 biphy His parents were the late Ezekiel Sowah Odotei a former head of Nii Ahimako We and son of the late great Nii Odotei Kwablah also of Nii Ahimako We, La and the late Madam Evelyn Angerley Ako of Nii Kwami otu We, Abese, La. He was the third of ten siblings. His spiritual journey began at Bethel Presbyterian Church, La where he was baptized by the late Reverend W. Tetteh in 1933 into the Presbyterian faith to nature his early Christian life. His educational pursuits started from the La Presbyterian primary school (Emmause) in 1938 and continued later at the elite La Presbyterian Middle Boys Boarding School popularly known in those days as Salem; where he learned the basic rudiments of a self-disciplined life and completed in 1948. It is worthy to mentioned that ES was brilliant during his school days and as such Today we are celebrating a life well lived, a life full of laughter, a life that even in death was full of life. That was the life of Ernest Sylvanus Odotei known by his siblings and family as Bro. Odotei, in ofcialdom Mr. Odotei and his friends and colleagues just ES was born into an aristocratic family in La known as Nii Ahimako We on December 1st, 1932 at La. He exceled in the Odinary Levels Certicate Examination and was admitted at Achimota Secondary school for the Advanced Levels but he declined the admission. In 1954 he was employed by the Accountant General's Department in Accra where he successfully passed his probationary examination and was transferred to Navrongo in the Upper Region in 1955. He served at Salaga and Wenchi until 1961 when he was transferred back to Accra. was awarded a scholarship to cover his tuition. He continued his education at Accra Academy in 1949 and successfully completed in 1953.
| 03biphy He married Ms. Faustina Akuetteh of blessed memory in 1960 at the time when he was serving at Wenchi and the marriage was blessed with 5 children, one of them had predeceased him.
Mr. Odotei worked with Accountant General's Department for a period of thirty- nine (39) years and during these number of years, ES had exposure to different leadership roles including a training course in the United Kingdom. He rose through the ranks to the position of Chief Accountant. Mr. Odotei's work with Accountant General's Department took him through assignments to Ministry of Health, Agriculture, Education and back to Ministry of Health where he nally retired as Chief Accountant in 1993. ES dedicated himself to public service with Controller and Accountant General's Department in Accra. Over the course of his professional career he served diligently in various capacities. WORK IF | 04 biphy
After the passing of his father, the late Ezekiel Sowah Odotei, in 1985, ES stepped Mr. Odotei never forgot his Maker as he journeyed through life. From a humble beginning as a young boy who had his enrollment at the La Presbyterian Primary School in 1938. He kept the faith with the church and served his Maker faithfully and diligently to the admiration of all. ES had a deep and abiding love for music, and he used his God-given musical talent faithfully in the service of the church. He served as an organist, accompanying worship and helping to create an atmosphere of praise and devotion. All this time, ES did not overlook the affairs of his native land La and his family house Nii Ahimako We, Kowe. He served as a prominent elder of the Nii Ahimako We family association and continued to contribute in diverse ways to the growth and development of the association. There was no doubt that he was appointed head of Nii Ahimako We and he played this leadership roles to the best of his ability till death laid it's icy hands on him on the 29th day of April, 2026. F A M I L Y & L E A D E R S H I P L I F E | 05biphy
Rest peacefully, ES. Your work is done, your legacy remains, and you will forever be remembered and cherished. His musical journey took him through several congregations, including Nazareth Congregation and Besheba Congregation, where he continued to share his talent with dedication and humility. Even in his later years, he remained committed to serving God through music, and he nally played for the Invalid Service held at his residence. Music was more than just a talent to ES; it was a gift he cherished and willingly offered in the service of God and others. He gave his very best whenever he sat behind the organ, and through his music, he touched many hearts and enriched the worship experience of those around him. Though he is no longer with us, the beautiful memories of his music, his dedication, and his service will remain with us. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing and hearing him play. Throughout his life, ES remained a man of faith, service, music, and family. He gave of himself generously and touched the lives of many through his kindness, leadership, and dedication. His passing leaves a great void in the family and among all who knew and loved him. As we mourn his departure, we are also grateful to God for the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind. The memories of his love, leadership, service, and musical talent will forever remain with us. Indeed, ES fought a good ght, he nished the race, and he kept the faith. We believe that the crown of glory awaits him for a life well lived, a race well run, and a faith faithfully kept. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Yaawo jogban mli. Amen. ye Nuntso le He became a source of strength, counsel, and support to the family, always ready to offer guidance whenever it was needed. forward to take up the mantle of responsibility and provide leadership and guidance to the family. He willingly accepted this role and carried it out with commitment, wisdom, and humility, much to the admiration and respect of his siblings. His sense of responsibility and devotion to his family reected the values he had inherited from his father. | 06 biphy
triutes | 07tbes
| 08 tbes ildren Tributes by “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?” Romans 8:38-39
Today, we gather to celebrate the life of a great man, a humble soul, a devoted father, a steadfast provider, and an inspiring role model whose life touched countless hearts. To the world, he was a respected leader, a trusted friend, and a man of unwavering principles. To us, he was simply Dad- the heart of our family, our protector, our teacher, and our greatest example. He was respected not because he sought influence but because he served with humility. Everyone who met him felt welcomed; he possessed the rare ability to make people feel that they mattered. Although Dad was remarkably fit and strong, his greatest strength was never physical; it was the strength of his character. He was dependable, honest, disciplined, and deeply compassionate. Dad's love did not stop with his family. He gave himself generously to his community and to the church, playing piano at home. Dad was more than a father. He was the foundation upon which our family was built. His quiet strength gave us confidence, his wisdom gave us direction, and his love gave us a sense of belonging that words can scarcely describe. His life was a living testimony that true greatness is found not in wealth or status, but in faithfulness, humility, and service to others. He also believed the well-being of our bodies is part of honouring the life God has given us. Whether taking us for a morning exercise along the beach, encouraging us to stay active, or reminding us, even as adults, to look after our health. Dad's generosity knew no boundaries. Many times, we would give him money, only to discover later that he had quietly given it away to someone whose need was greater His service as an Organist in the Church was a significant part of his life and ministry, touching many generations. For Dad, it was never simply about playing music; through his gifts, he lifted hearts in worship, enriched the spiritual life of the Church, and helped bring many closer to God. The hymns he played may have faded with time, but the faith, comfort, and inspiration they awakened in others will continue to live on. Some of our earliest memories bring smiles even today. Dad believed that every day should begin with purpose. Long before sunrise, at 4 am he would already be awake, having spent time in prayer. If we were reluctant to leave our beds, he had his own unforgettable method of encouragement- a splash of water on our heads! As time went by, we protested, but today we laugh because we understand the lessons behind it: he wanted us to study hard, value time, and, above all, put God first in every aspect of our lives. | 09tbes
When our beloved mother passed away, a part of Dad's heart left with her. Though he continued to live courageously, serving others with the same commitment he always had, we could see that he carried a quiet longing for Mum. Today, we find comfort in believing that they are reunited once again, together in God's eternal peace. We miss you more than words can ever express. Your memory will remain forever etched in our hearts. Our deepest sorrow is that, when Dad passed away that morning, after some of us had spoken to him only the day before, he appeared to be in good health, and none of us was by his side. That is a pain that words cannot fully express. If we had been given just one more moment, we would have held his hand, thanked him for every sacrifice he made, and reminded him once more how deeply he was loved. Your greatest achievement was not what you accomplished but the lives you transformed. Your legacy lives on in your children, your grandchildren, your family, your community, and everyone who was blessed to know you. Yet in our grief, we remain profoundly grateful- grateful that God chose you to be our father. than his own. That was simple his nature. He found genuine happiness in giving, in serving, and in helping others without expecting anything in return. His kindness was never performed for recognition- it flowed naturally from his heart. Although all four of us eventually built our lives abroad, Dad never allowed distance to weaken our family bond. Through his carefully handwritten letters and our regular family meetings, where he lovingly asked each of us how we were doing, he made us feel as though we had never left home. Those letters are now our most treasured possessions. They are lasting reminders of his love, wisdom, and constant presence in our lives. Dad, thank you. Thank you for showing us that integrity is worth more than success. Thank you for every sacrifice you made, every prayer you whispered on our behalf, every lesson you taught us, and every act of love that shaped the children we have become. Rest well, Dad, till we meet again. You will forever remain in our hearts. Dad Yaawon Odjogban As Apostle Paul wrote, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Dad, you fought a good fight, and you finished your race with dignity. You kept your faith until the very end. | 10 tbes
We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved grandad, a truly kind and caring man who meant so much to all of us. He was a man of great knowledge and wisdom, always ready to share his advice, stories, and experiences with anyone who needed them. No matter what the situation, grandad was always there to lend a helping hand and could be relied upon whenever we needed him. He had a warmth and generosity that made everyone around him feel cared for and supported. We will miss his kindness, his wisdom, his stories, and simply having him there with us. Grandad will always hold a special place in our hearts and will be remembered with so much love, gratitude, and cherished memories. Cynthia, Chantelle &Tristan Grandad, whenever we came to see you, our conversations were never ordinary. We would sit with you and talk strategy as though we were young generals being moulded by a retired general preparing us for the war ahead. Every word you spoke was deliberate, sharp and full of meaning. We listened, and we will carry those lessons with us for the rest of our lives. Some people leave this world, but their words, their wisdom and their spirit stay with you forever. gnhildren Tributes by | 11tbes
We wish we could show you the war we are ghting now- the battles we've won, the ones we've lost and everything still ahead of us. But we know you are watching, and in some way, still guiding us. You believed in our wild ideas, our dreams and our ambitions. You never told us to think smaller. You taught us to never settle, never put our heads down and never be afraid to ght back-just to be smart about the battles we choose. We will never forget the story you told us about Labadi, and how we laughed about always being the “bad boys” who refused to settle. That joke became part of who we were with you. You always taught us that no general wins a war alone. You need the right people around you- people who will stand beside you through the victories, the losses and the battles nobody else sees. Our memories with you have slowly turned our pain into peace. Although we have lost you physically, we know that your voice, your lessons, and your spirit will continue to guide us. So we promise you this: We will keep ghting. We will keep building. We will keep dreaming. And we will never settle. Your two young generals will carry the mission forward Rest peacefully, Grandad, Ato & Cameron | 12 tbes
He will promise to pray for Mum and me. Granddad, we love you and pledge to keep your principles.Grandad damiefa duw. Nii Odotei, Naa Odoley & Nii Ako Grandad was me and my Mum's pillar of strength and pillar of belonging. He will call to ask about us, encouraging me to work hard and become someone prominent in the future. Blessing | 13tbes
Tributes by nws nieces& You lived such a good life, one filled with generosity, kindness and love. You were a counselor, role model and a pathfinder. You gave hope to the hopeless and touched so many lives by your countless acts of kindness. The lives you have a ected positively cannot be quantified. Humanity will never forget your good works on earth. Fare thee well dear uncle E.S. We gather here today to bid farewell with heavy hearts, the loss of a remarkable man who has left an indelible mark on our lives. Uncle E.S or uncle Odotei as we a ectionately called him was more than just an Uncle to us; indeed he was a pillar of strategy, vision love and peace. He always made time for each of us and lifted us up when we needed it most. The lessons he taught us and the warmth he brought into our lives will remain with us forever. Thank you for being our mentor, our cheerleader and our friend. Your laughter filled our family gathering s and your wisdom guided our steps. We are so incredibly grateful for every memory we shared with you. You were a constant source of light, wisdom and love in our lives; teaching us important life lessons. You always made each of us feel special and deeply cared for. Your guidance shaped who we are today and while our hearts ache from your absence your memory will live on in our actions and stories. Even though you are gone from our sight your love stays with us forever. You showed us how to be kind, to help others and to live with a big heart. You were like a shining star in a dark world. “ Yaa Wo Ojogbann" Uncle E.S was like the proverbial stream that keeps flowing because it is not disconnected from its source and like a physical stream, he was a blessing all along his route. It has been a great honour and pleasure to have been our Uncle. We thank you immensely for all the good deeds and joy you brought to our lives. You lived an exemplary life to the fullest that is worth celebrating and may the good Lord keep you in His bosom till we meet again and to part no more. Rest in perfect peace and may your cherished memories be a blessing to all. " The righteous perish, and no one ponders it in his hearts; devout men are taken away and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil. Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death" Isaiah 57: 1-2. | 14 tbes
Tributes by sists He would tease the siblings when they are worried as a result of challenges, saying why are they allowing such small problems to disorganize them. E. S. you were very generous helping to pay the school fees as far as to the tertiary level of some extended family members who lost their parents at an early age. You showed leadership tendencies by solving problems mostly leading to peace. It was therefore not surprising when you were chosen to be the head of family of Ahimako We of Kwei. At the time you could no longer go to the family house due to weakness resulting from old age family problems were brought to your residence for solutions. E. S.!!! Yaawo jogbann toes. He always urged his siblings to let go, Alleluia, Alleluia! E. S. was very intelligent which helped him along his educational ladder to complete his basic and secondary education successfully. We remember how you could read big story books within a day and narrated the stories to us E. S. sang mostly while performing other chores, so it wasn't a surprise when we saw him playing the organ alongside singing. He further played the organ in church when he joined the choir. E. S. joked a lot, mostly to cool tempers when he realized he had stepped on someone's E. S. as we a ectionately called him was the first son among ten siblings. He was cherished by every member of the family because for a long time he was the only male among his four sisters, and hence was given special treatment and care. The grandmother, who was a baker gave him the first baked bread with butter every morning, a treat he looked forward to each day. At the time the next boy was born, E. S was much older and displayed some naughtiness hence came under the strict discipline of his parents. in other to reach out for God's blessings. Bra. E. S. you have served your generation, fought the good fight and worshiped your maker, may you rest in His bosom. ye Nuntso le mli. | 15tbes
u n t i l w e m t AND YOU NEVER WILL.WE HOLD YOU CLOSEbWITHIN OUR HEARTS YOU HAVE NEVER BEEN FORGOTTEN, TO WALK AND GUIDE US AND THERE YOU WILL REMAIN, WE THINK ABOUT YOU ALWAYS, THROUGH OUR LIVES, UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN. WE TALK ABOUT YOU STILL, | 16 tbes
gally | 17tbes
family friend Tributes by People have said that perhaps I touched his heart through the care I gave him, and I am deeply humbled by that. But if I am being honest, I believe he touched mine far more deeply than he could ever have known. What began as my responsibility to care for him became something much more personal, a relationship I came to treasure and a memory I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Caring for him was never just a professional obligation. It was a privilege. It was an honour, And, in many ways, it was a gift to me. His kindness, humility, intelligence, and gentle spirit left an imprint on my life that I did not expect and will never forget. Mr Odotei, if indeed I touched your heart, please know that you touched mine in ways that words can hardly express. Your memory will remain with me, not only as someone I had the privilege to care for, but as someone who quietly became a part of my heart. May your gentle and beautiful soul rest in perfect peace. You will be remembered with love, warmth, gratitude, and a very full heart. I will never forget the trust and confidence he placed in me. He would travel all the way from Labadi to Lapaz simply because he wanted to be seen by me, often saying with such warmth and certainty, “Dear, let them take me to Dr Engmann”. Those words may have seemed simple, but they meant so much to me. They were a beautiful expression of the trust he had in me, and I will always hold them close to my heart. I would like to take a moment to honour the memory of Mr Odotei, my dear friend's father and one of the most cherished people I had the privilege of caring for. It is di cult to put into words the sadness that comes with losing someone who became so dear to you. But alongside the sadness is immense gratitude- gratitude that our paths crossed, that he trusted me, and that I had the privilege of caring for a man whose life I hope I was able to touch as meaningfully as he touched mine. If I was able to leave even a fraction of the warmth, comfort, and care in his heart that he left in mine, then I consider our journey together a beautiful gift. Dr. (Mrs) Joy Thelma Tettey | 18 tbes
Rest in peace, Mr Odotei; sleep peacefully in the bosom of the Lord. It was my hope that you would live long after your dear wife passed on, because Baby Dear always recounted her chats with you, and I know she depended on you in many ways. Now that you are no more, your conversations and good counsel will continue to guide her and the rest of the family. Yaa wo Odzogban. Thank you for your prayers and support.You were not a loud person but a calm Ga gentleman, full of wisdom and good counsel. I first met you some 40 years ago when I assumed the role of Baby Dear's big sister when she first moved to London. We later on found out you had worked with my father many years before in the same o ce. Mr Odotei, you were always proud of me and cheered me from the sidelines when I went into public service as an MP and Minister of State and even in my new role of Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Nations. Tributes by Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey Commonwealth Secretary-General family friend | 19tbes
Tributes by Cat. Dsp. Abraham Nii Odoi Aryeh (Odoleytsɛ) friend b& | 20 tbes Ph564 1&5 I“Misusuma, kwεmↄ Yesu, lε eshεjeↄ mↄ mii. Jeŋ amanei ni baa onↄ tsↄↄ bo Yesu sεε gbε. Jeŋ nεε mli lε obε anↄkwa miishεε kwraa. Yesu lε ejra wa hả o; b'lε hii emasεi daa. Tee shi, kwεmↄ ŋwεi nibii lε, nomεi asεε odi. Ojielↄ lε ŋwεiniaŋ eyↄↄ; jεi nibii lε fiteee. Jeŋ yakayaka nii kε miishεε hoↄ oya; daa hejↄↄmↄ kε miishзɛ lɛ, Yesu mli pɛ eyↄↄ”.
Although he was advanced in age, Onukpa Odotei never allowed his age to become an excuse for withdrawing from the work of God. On many occasions, he would insist on doing things that I would ordinarily have expected to handle as the Catechist. He was deeply involved in the selection of hymns, preparation of the liturgy, and arrangements for Sunday services and other festive occasions. My relationship with the late Ernest Sylvanus Odotei began when I was asked to go and oversee the activities of the Aged Preaching Point at La Adjemang as a Catechist by PCG Bethel Congregation Session. From the very first day I arrived, he welcomed me warmly and made me feel at home. Through his kindness, humility and brotherly a ection, the preaching point gradually became my second home. Rather than allowing me to struggle with these responsibilities, he willingly assisted me. In fact, I can confidently say that he did much of my work for me as a Catechist. Instead of seeing this as a burden, he considered it a privilege to serve God and support the growth of the preaching point. Our relationship was made even more special by our family connections. The late Ernest was from Nii Odotei Ahimako We, while I am from Nii Kpobi We, both in Kowe Akutso. Because of this connection, we developed a unique and a ectionate relationship. I fondly called him “my son,” and he also called me “his son.” This became a joke and a bond that we nurtured throughout the seven years I spent with the preaching point. It was a simple expression, but behind it was a relationship filled with love, respect, service and commitment to God's work. One thing I will forever remember about Nii E.S Odotei was his extraordinary skill in playing the keyboard. His mastery of the instrument and his knowledge of church hymns were remarkable. His music added life, beauty, and meaning to our worship services. He had a special ability to play di erent hymns with their appropriate tunes, and again a hymn with di erent tunes. I personally benefited greatly from his knowledge and experience. It is with a deeply saddened heart, yet with gratitude to God for the life he lived, that I pay this tribute to our dear son, friend, father, grandfather, “shianukpa” and faithful servant of God, the late Mr. Ernest Sylvanus Odotei. During my seven-year stay with the Aged Preaching Point, I patiently learned a great deal from him, particularly about hymns, their di erent tunes, and the proper preparation of worship services. His experience became a valuable source of knowledge for me. I will always cherish those moments and the lessons I learnt from him. What touched me most was his selfless service, unwavering commitment, humility and sacrifice. Papa Odotei did not seek recognition or praise. He simply served because he loved God and loved the church. | 21tbes
His dedication to the Aged Preaching Point was evident in the many years he gave of his time, strength, knowledge and talent. Nii E. S Odotei, my son, as I a ectionately called you, and as you also called me your son, your departure has left a great void in the Aged Preaching Point. I will greatly miss your presence, your music, your knowledge of hymns, your willingness to serve and above all, our special father- and-son relationship. You often asked me when I would join the ordained ministry. Today, I can only imagine you smiling and asking me that same question again. Your words will continue to encourage me to remain faithful to God's call and to serve Him with the same dedication you demonstrated throughout your life. May the Almighty God receive your soul into His eternal kingdom, and may He grant strength, comfort and peace to your family, loved ones, the Aged Preaching Point and all who mourn your passing. May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen. Rest peacefully, my dear son, father grandfather. Rest from your labour. Your service to God and your contribution to the Aged Preaching Point will never be forgotten. One question he repeatedly asked me remains deeply engraved in my heart. He would look at me and say, “My son, when will you join the ordained ministry?” He asked this question so often that it became another familiar part of our relationship. Little did I know that one day those words would become a treasured memory of a man who genuinely cared about my spiritual journey and ministry. Today, as I join family members and the church here to bid him farewell, I realise how precious those conversations were. His voice may be silent, his keyboard may no longer sound at the preaching point, and his physical presence may no longer be with us, but the memories of his service, his laughter, his counsel, his music, and his love for God's work will remain with us. Papa Odotei was not merely a member of the Aged Preaching Point. He was one of the pillars who helped sustain its activities. His contribution to the preaching point and the lives he touched cannot easily be measured. He leaves behind a legacy of faithful service, commitment, generosity and love for the church. As we mourn your departure, we also give thanks to God for blessing us with your life and for allowing us to share part of your journey. Your earthly service is over, but your good works and memories will continue to speak. | 22 tbes
Tributes by PCG-Adjemang Aged Preaching Point – La friend b& blɛ gbele nyɛŋ ewo ehe gbeyei. Tsɛ gbↄmↄtso lɛ gboↄ moŋ, At a time when the Aged Preaching Point was taking its initial steps, Pres. Odotei willingly made his place of abode available for the worship of God. His home became a place where the faithful could gather for Sunday worship, morning devotions, fellowship, prayer, and the hearing continued to grow. Ekwɛlↄ kpakpa eye gbele nↄ pɛ; Pres. E. S. Odotei, together with his beloved late wife, Mrs. Cynthia Maanu Odotei, played a significant and unforgettable role in the inception and establishment of the La Adjemang Aged Preaching Point. Their contribution to the work of God cannot be measured merely in material terms, because what they o ered was much more precious: their home, their time, their talents, their resources and, above all, their hearts in the service of the Lord. He did not merely provide a place for worship; he became an active participant in the work itself. His commitment was evident in the time and resources he devoted to the preaching point. He willingly gave of himself without seeking recognition or praise. His service was driven by a genuine love for God and His Church. One of the most memorable aspects of Pres. Odotei's service was his dedication as the organist of the preaching point. He remained a loyal and dependable organist for many years, faithfully accompanying the congregation in worship until advancing age and weariness made the task increasingly di cult. His keyboard was not merely a musical instrument; it became an instrument through which he helped lead God's people in praise and worship. It is with deep sorrow, gratitude and a profound sense of loss that the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Adjemang Aged Preaching Point – La, pays this tribute to our beloved father, Pres. Ernest Sylvanus Odotei, whose life was a remarkable testimony of faith, commitment, sacrifice and service to God. Kɛ too l1 kả ekwɛlↄ lɛ mlishi lɛ Shi esusuma lɛ gboŋ, ni efite` dↄŋŋ” “Kwɛ bↄ ni gbele tete ji hejↄlɛ, PH 504 verse 3. Pres. Odotei was also meticulous in the selection of hymns for church services. He took great care to choose hymns that were appropriate for the theme and message of each service. He went further to prepare the liturgy in accordance with the Church's Order of Service, carefully indicating the relevant pages so that worship could proceed in an orderly and meaningful manner. His attention to detail demonstrated his deep respect for worship and his desire to give God his very best. | 23tbes
What makes his devotion even more remarkable is that he continued to serve despite his advanced age. Even in his late eighties and early nineties, when many would understandably have withdrawn from active service, Pres. Odotei continued to play the keyboard during the Aged Service and remained involved in the selection of hymns. His age did not diminish his commitment; rather, his perseverance became an inspiration to younger generations. In one of the clearest demonstrations of his enduring love for God's work, he used his own resources to purchase a new keyboard for the Aged Service, even at such an advanced age. This was more than the purchase of an instrument. It was a declaration that, as long as he had strength and means, he would continue to support the worship and work of God. Pres. Odotei's life reminds us that true service to God is not determined by age, position, wealth or recognition. It is determined by a willing heart. He demonstrated that one can serve quietly, faithfully, consistently, and sacrificially, leaving behind a legacy that speaks even when the servant is no longer physically present. Pres. Odotei was a man of faith, discipline, humility, generosity, dedication and perseverance. He understood that the work of God requires sacrifice. He gave his home when a place of worship was needed. He gave his time when there was work to be done. He gave his talent when music was needed. He gave his resources when equipment was required. Above all, he gave his heart in faithful service to God and His people. “Till we meet again at Jesus feet” Kristo Asrafonyo ok1 shia kw1m4 jur4.W4 jogba``!!! “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” As the Scripture reminds us in Hebrews 6:10: His physical presence will be greatly missed. We will miss his music, his careful selection of hymns, his preparation of the liturgy, and his dedication to the Aged Service and his quiet but meaningful contributions to the growth of the preaching point. However, his legacy of service will continue to speak. Today, although our hearts are heavy with grief, we choose to celebrate his life and the remarkable legacy he has left behind. We are grateful to God for the privilege of knowing him, worshipping with him, learning from him and witnessing his unwavering commitment to the Church. Indeed, Pres. Ernest Sylvanus Odotei's work and love for God's people will not be forgotten. The Adjemang Aged Preaching Point will forever remember the man who opened his home, shared his resources, played the keyboard, carefully prepared the hymns and liturgy and continued serving God even when age had taken much of his strength. We therefore join the songwriter Thomas Rankin in saying: | 24 tbes
Tributes by Presbyterian Church Of Ghana Bethel Congregation, La CHURCH Life with God in the heavens, Reward for what we've done (PH 786 – 1) by Herberger I now must bid you farewell, Leave you this world of sin No pleasure I have here, I am so tired in life, It is with great pain as we set out to write a tribute to an illustrious son of God and a former devout member of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, La Bethel Congregation, Ernest Sylvanus Odotei Jn. The Late Ernest Sylvanus Odotei Jnr. was a very committed and dedicated member of the La Bethel Congregation. There God shall bring great reward, This life I much desire. The Late Ernest Sylvanus Odotei Jnr served as an organist of the Bethel Congregation for a very long time. His hard work and commitment to church activities was recognized by the entire congregation and was thus elected a Presbyter of the Church in 1979. The late E. S. Odotei as he was a ectionately called distinguished himself as a Presbyter and was subsequently elected a Presbyter for three more consecutive times, 1983 -1987, 1987 – 1991 and 1991 - 1995. Mr. E. S. Odotei brought his expertise as an Auditor to bear on the work of the Session, especially when it came to dealing with financial issues. It was therefore not surprising when in 1983, he was appointed as the Treasurer | 25tbes
E. S. Odotei held on to the faith even in old age. Today as we mourn his departure, we pray God to grant him eternal rest till we meet again. Rest well Onukpa E. S. Rest well in the Our beloved Senior Brother was blessed with many fruitful years. Unfortunately, these years come along with physical and mental weaknesses of which our late brother was no exception. However, these years were used to once again serve the Lord at the invalid service held every Sunday in his house at Adjemang. He participated fully in all its activities as his physical strength will allow him. The Late E. S. Odotei served on the joint Session of the La Bethel and Nativity during the infant stages of the Nativity Congregaion in 1982. His quite disposition was one thing very much appreciated. He was always ready to assist in whatever way to see the Church grow. One thing that fascinated the Ministers as well as other Session members was his caution statement when it came to approval of funds for church project. To support his point, he was always ready to provide bank balances as a guide so as to avoid signing cheques which will bounce on presentation. of the La Bethel Congregation. He held on to this position for eight good years when he finally decided not to serve as a Presbyter again due to old age. In spite of his busy schedule of work coupled with his role as Treasurer of the Church, our Late Brother always found time to be with the Church Choir. He also served on the Choir Board from 1991 to 1995 and together they o ered suggestions which helped the Choir to function e ectively. La Bethel Session says, bosom of the Lord. | 26 tbes
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