Published by Keep The Faith magazine, the Black UK Christian Directory costs £10 and contains over 2700 entries and provides comprehensive listings of black majority churches of every denomination across the UK, as well as listings for black Christian businesses, voluntary organisations, charities and church based ministries.
It’s estimated that between 35-50% of Britain ’s million strong black population regularly attend church, and Black majority churches are considered the most stable institutions within Britain ’s African and Caribbean community. They are regularly contacted by Government, local councils, statutory bodies, charities and professional organisations seeking to engage with the black community.
Shirley McGreal, Publisher of the Black UK Christian Directory commented, “As a result of publishing monthly magazine Keep The Faith I recognised there was a vibrant black Christian community comprised of churches, businesses, charities, voluntary organisations and para-church organisations which too few people were aware of. I felt producing a directory would provide a comprehensive guide for those interested in engaging with the black Christian community, as well as provide a great resource for individuals and organisations wanting an insight into the depth and breadth of this vibrant and important sector within the black community.”
The Directory foreward has been written by Prince Charles who makes mention of the major input black Christians have made to the spiritual life of the UK . He wrote “…You are a marvellous example of how so many people, whose families originate from the Commonwealth, have yourselves brought new life into the Christian church in the United Kingdom”. He also mentions that his charity, The Princes Trust, will work more closely with black churches in the near future.
The Black UK Christian Directory will be published annually and it is Ms McGreal’s hope that it becomes a ‘must have’ book for anyone interested in learning about the Black Christian community. She said, “ Britain ’s black churches have come a long way since their humble origins in the living rooms and halls rented by first generation Caribbean immigrants that came to the UK during the 1950s and 60s. It has mushroomed into a vibrant spiritual force, which provides exciting worship services, hope, support, direction, community services, inspirational music and moral guidance to the black community and beyond. I believe the Black UK Christian Directory will give people insight into this unique and special community, and as a result, help people forge meaningful and life enhancing relationships and partnerships with this important sector.”
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