Many churches across London have members of a particular African community that attend it, but St John’s is perhaps unique in attracting so many people from so many different countries.

Reflecting the mix of central London life and the comings and goings of a busy international community, St John’s has welcomed people from all over the continent of Africa, but especially Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia and Sudan. Many of our members of African descent are here throughout the year—but others come and go on a regular basis, seeing St John’s as their London church when in town.

The good singing, music and familiar catholic liturgy with a lively twist attract many Africans to St John’s. Many, too, appreciate exposure to the different theological perspectives and experiences that we have—that’s what happens when we worship alongside Americans, Europeans and resident Londoners. Lively conversation and the renewal and maintenance of friendships is a hallmark of our after-service receptions.

Those that are around long-term engage with our short educational courses. These are designed to help us grow spiritually to a deeper relationship with the God that continues to call us. We value learning from the experiences of others whose lives and cultural contexts are different to their own.

At St John’s we do not sweep under the carpet the problems of the Anglican Communion. But we do celebrate our diversity within the context of love and respect for one another. One thing we’re sure of—the Christian family that prays together stays together.

One of the ways in recent years that we celebrate out diversity is in the way we say the Lord’s Prayer together as a community—each person speaking the words in their mother tongue.

The clergy are happy to pray with families after any service or by special arrangement at the time of birthdays, wedding anniversaries and anniversaries of death, as well as at other times of spiritual need or thanksgiving.