On the afternoon of Sunday, 20 September, a new Universal Church opened its doors in the port city of Plymouth. This new church marks an important milestone in the UCKG’s expansion in Southwest England, providing a new hub for spiritual growth where people will have access to regular worship services, community outreach initiatives and events in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Bishop James Marques, who led the service with Pastor Daniel Guimaraes, remembered the beginning of the UCKG work in the city. “In September 2021, we held the first-ever service in Plymouth in the house of one of our Assistants. Five of her neighbours were present. We saw the need that this city has for the Lord Jesus, so we decided to act to open a church here as quickly as possible. It took three years but here we are!”
Attendees have shared their excitement and gratitude for the new branch, recognising the church’s commitment to spreading the Word of God and serving the local community. They expressed their joy and sense of belonging, believing that the new branch will bring hope and transformation to Plymouth.
A young man who attended the service stated that “It’s a blessing for us to have a church open 7 days a week, as people can come whenever they need help.” Local Sandra Akhare, who was also present, added: “We were looking forward to this day! Plymouth is a place where many different people and cultures come together and I’m super excited. I can’t wait to start going out there to spread the word and bring more souls to come and experience God here, now that we have a place we can call home.”
Bishop James invited all attendees to join him in faith, stretching out their hands towards the Altar where he poured blessed oil on a tray consecrating the Altar as, in his own words, “a place where God will speak to His servants and many lives will be transformed.” He added, “This inauguration means that we now opened the church in uncharted territory. Our plans here are to make disciples and lead people to have an encounter with the Lord Jesus and be baptised with the Holy Spirit. We believe that very soon there will be other churches from this location as well.”
Pastor Daniel Guimaraes, who oversees the work in Plymouth, concluded, “We can see a future of growth and great opportunities for the local community. This first day was a blessing and we will see greater things here in Plymouth!”
