POTTED HISTORY OF TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF GHANA, LONDON

Origins and Formation (1989–1990): The Trinity Presbyterian Church of Ghana, London Congregation traces its roots to 1989 when the Akropong Kwakwaduam Fekuw began discussions with Rev. Kwadwo Ntiamoah Amaning of the United Reformed Church (URC) to establish a Twi-speaking Presbyterian congregation in London. At an Odwira festival event, Rev. Amaning appealed for support, and the idea gained strong backing among Ghanaian Presbyterians.

On 12 July 1990, the first historic service was held at Christ Church & Upton Chapel (CCUC). The service was “so emotional and nostalgic that some congregants were led to tears.” The new congregation was named Ghanamma Asore, and early members quickly organised a Women’s Fellowship, Choir, Singing Band, and Sunday School.

Struggle for Recognition (1990–1994):  Attempts to affiliate with the URC were repeatedly rejected, partly due to fears that a Ghanaian vernacular church would reduce URC membership. Efforts to gain recognition from the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) were initially unsuccessful. Despite this, the congregation grew rapidly, reaching 250 adults by 1993.  Rev. Amaning appointed the first unelected elders to structure the church along Presbyterian lines.

 

The 1994 Split: Birth of Trinity: Tensions between Rev. Amaning and Rev. Graham Powel of the URC escalated, culminating in a court order on 14 August 1994 preventing Ghanamma Asore from worshipping at CCUC. This led to a major split:

  • Ghanamma Asore, led by Rev. Amaning, moved to Marylebone and later Paddington Green.
  • The remaining group became the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, London—later known as Trinity Presbyterian Church of Ghana, London Congregation.

During the split, Ghanamma withdrew £17,000 from the church account, leaving only £33 for Trinity. Despite this, Trinity reorganised, recruited new elders, and secured temporary ministerial support from Rev. Dzandu-Hedidor, Rev. Adu Darkwah, and Rev. Samuel Ansah-Addo.

Growth Under Rev. Dr. John Azumah (1997–1998):  In 1997, PCG, Ghana, granted permission for Rev. Dr. John Azumah who had come from Ghana to study to support Trinity. His leadership brought spiritual renewal and rapid growth to 350 adults and organised the first elected Session in 1998. 

Rev. Peter Barker Era (1998–2002):  After Rev. Azumah returned to Ghana, Rev. Peter Barker, a retired URC minister with deep ties to Ghana, took over. He strengthened administrative structures, introduced the Kennington Messenger, and helped establish the YPG, and helped reconcile the long-standing dispute over the £17,000. Both congregations agreed to donate the funds to PCG for a future project.  On 7 May 2000, Trinity and Ghanamma were officially inaugurated as PCG congregations in London.

Transition to Brockley & Search for a Permanent Home (2002–2005):  After being asked to vacate CCUC in December 2002, Trinity relocated to St Peter’s Anglican Church, Brockley, thanks to the support of Rev. Corrinne Tourneau. Membership reached 709 adults by early 2003.

A breakaway group formed Ebenezer Presbyterian Church, but Trinity remained stable under Rev. Beatrice Yamoah and later Rev. Prof. Reynolds.

Acquisition of South Lee Christian Centre (2003–2005):  The search for a permanent home intensified. Members contributed generously, raising over £280,000. After a competitive bidding process, Trinity successfully purchased the South Lee Christian Centre for £800,000, supported by a £600,000 mortgage from Barclays Bank. Worship officially began in September 2005 at this new location.

Re-dedication and Consolidation (2005–2008):  On 2 October 2005, the church building was formally re-dedicated by PCG Moderator Rt. Rev. Dr. Yaw Frimpong-Manso. The document recalls the moment when “the Moderator officially opened the door to a rapturous reception by the congregation.”

Under the leadership of Very Rev. Dr. Sam Prempeh, Trinity strengthened its committees, expanded ministries, and received a donated minibus for member transport.

Resident Minister and Expansion (2008–2011):  In October 2008, Rev. Thomas Kwaku Boakye became Trinity’s first Resident Minister. A manse was purchased to support his posting. He introduced the First Service to engage English-speaking youth. Trinity also acquired a new 16-seater bus.

After Rev. Boakye’s departure, Rev. Dr. Azumah briefly returned as Acting District Minister, overseeing new Session elections and administrative reforms.

District Leadership and New Congregations (2012–2014):  In 2012, Rev. Ben Larsey became District Minister, focusing on spiritual revival, leadership training, and catechist development. Trinity continued to grow, though membership slightly reduced as new PCG congregations emerged across London.

On 15 May 2014, the Grace Preaching Post was elevated to a full congregation. Trinity’s membership stood at around 660.

Recent Leadership and Achievements (2014–2024):  Trinity has since been led by several ministers, including:

  • Rev. Kofi Nyarko (Local and District Minister and later Presbytery Chair)
  • Rev. Henry Addo-Darko (guided the church through COVID-19)
  • Rev. Dr. Okoe-Abbey (appointed 2023), supported by Rev. David Akuffo

Under Rev. Okoe-Abbey, Trinity achieved a record £70,000 harvest in 2024 and launched new programmes for youth, the elderly, and the vulnerable.

Legacy and Impact:  Trinity’s legacy led to multiple PCG congregations across London, making it a foundational pillar of Ghanaian Presbyterianism in the UK.

  • PCG Calvary
  • PCG Emmanuel
  • PCG Ebenezer
  • PCG Grace
  • GWPC Kent

This is our story — a story of faith, resilience, unity, and God’s unfailing grace. Trinity Presbyterian Church of Ghana, London Congregation stands today because God has been with us every step of the way.