Rev Wengam Briefs Global Church Leaders on Strategy for 2026 Assemblies of God Congress in Accra

Introduction

In October 2025, religious leaders from across the globe convened in New York to finalize plans for the historic 2026 World Congress of the Assemblies of God (AOG), set to take place in Accra, Ghana. Rev. Stephen Wengam, the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God in Ghana and Vice Chairman of the Africa Assemblies of God Alliance, led discussions with over 50 international delegates representing the World Assemblies of God Fellowship (WAGF). This briefing underscored preparations for the AUKEY 2026 summit, a landmark event poised to redefine global Christian outreach under the theme of unity, evangelism, and spiritual renewal. The Congress marks a pivotal moment for Africa’s first major hosting of this transdenominational assembly, signaling the WAGF’s commitment to expanding its reach through initiatives like the MM33 Great Commission process.

Analysis

The Role of Rev. Wengam in Shaping the Congress’s Vision

Rev. Wengam’s leadership in the WAGF and his dual role as Vice Chairman of the Africa Assemblies of God Alliance positioned him as a central figure in articulating the goals for the 2026 Congress. As the first African host, Ghana’s readiness to accommodate 5,000+ delegates was highlighted as a testament to its logistical capacity and spiritual hospitality. Wengam emphasized intertwining the country’s cultural richness with the Congress’s agenda, which includes fostering cross-cultural collaboration and advancing the Great Commission through the MM33 initiative.

Understanding the MM33 Great Commission Process

The MM33 initiative, launched to mobilize global Christian communities, aims to plant 1 million new churches by 2033. This audacious target reflects the WAGF’s vision to triple its current global presence of 89.9 million members across 450,000 local assemblies. During the New York meetings, leaders reviewed progress on this initiative, identifying emerging nations like sub-Saharan Africa as priority regions for future missions.

Accra: A Strategic Host City for Global Evangelism

Accra’s selection as the Congress host city was praised for its political stability, robust infrastructure, and accessibility. The Ghanaian government’s partnership with the WAGF to ensure “world-class event conditions” aligns with the nation’s growing profile as a hub for international conferences. This aligns with broader efforts to enhance Africa’s role in global theology and missionary work.

Summary

The 2026 Assemblies of God Congress in Accra represents a transformative milestone for the global Protestant community. Key outcomes of the New York briefing include finalizing logistics for the event, advancing the MM33 Great Commission process, and emphasizing cross-cultural partnerships. Rev. Wengam’s advocacy for Ghana’s readiness highlights the continent’s rising influence in Christian leadership. Meanwhile, the WAGF’s pledge to accelerate missionary growth to 5,000 personnel underlines its strategic ambition to address global evangelism gaps.

Key Points

Practical Advice for Attendees

• Cultural Preparation: Delegates from non-African nations should familiarize themselves with West African customs to foster smoother interactions.
• Networking Opportunities: Engage with leaders from regions like Kenya, South Africa, and Brazil, who will bring unique perspectives on evangelism in diverse contexts.
• Logistical Planning: Book accommodations in mid-October 2026 to secure proximity to the headquarters, anticipated to be in Accra’s central business district.

Points of Caution

• Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid assumptions about local traditions; consult WAGF’s cultural guide for polite engagement practices.
• Travel Restrictions: Monitor health advisories and visa requirements for Ghana, especially as the event date approaches.
• Financial Planning: Consider the cost of international travel and delegate funding, particularly for smaller congregations in emerging markets.

Comparison

While the 2026 Congress in Accra is the first international event hosted by an African Assemblies of God mission, it echoes the 1975 Manila Congress in the Philippines. Both events prioritized youth engagement and global unity, though Accra’s program emphasizes Indigenous African theological integration and digital mission tools for the MM33 initiative. This divergence reflects shifting priorities from physical congregation growth to sustainable, tech-enabled outreach models.

Legal Implications

This article contains no explicit legal analysis, as the focus remains on administrative and theological preparations. However, churches hosting international events must ensure compliance with local Ghanaian event regulations and data privacy laws for global attendee registrations. Legal consultation with African mission committees is advised to preempt logistical disputes or regulatory oversight.

Conclusion

The briefing in New York encapsulates the WAGF’s dual focus on unity and expansion. Under Rev. Wengam’s guidance, the Assemblies of God’s future Congress in Accra promises to be a landmark event, blending spiritual fervor with logistical innovation. By advancing the MM33 process and prioritizing missionary outreach, the fellowship aims to solidify its role as a leader in global Protestant evangelism. Churches worldwide are encouraged to prepare proactively to contribute to this historic initiative.

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