Over 100 black and minority ethnic church leaders from across the UK will gather in an historic meeting entitled ‘Stronger Together – Weaker Apart’ next month. The leaders’ summit has been organised by Minority Ethnic Christian Affairs (MECA).
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The event is in recognition of the role of black and minority ethnic leaders within the church which has been increasing and the growth of the minority ethnic Christian population in Britain.

Throughout the day, the leaders will pray, network and discuss everyday concerns together such as: what do Black and minority ethnic Church leaders in Britain have to say on global warming, natural disasters, famine in Africa, AIDS, Live8, G8, international terrorism, London bombings, witchcraft, child abuse, ritual killing in churches....and the contrast between revival in Black Churches and slump in attendance in mainstream Churches?

MECA is an instrument of Churches Together working with Christians from minority ethnic communities in Britain and Ireland.

7.9 percent of the overall population in Britain and Ireland are considered to belong to ethnic minorities. 90 percent live in England, 45 percent of which live in London.

According to statistics launched by the Christian Research Association, overall church membership in England has fallen 5 percent but Black church membership has increased by 18 percent. Among London’s churchgoers, black and minority ethnic people consist of 66 percent.

“It is very obvious that Britain's Black and minority ethnic Christian community, particularly those living in our inner cities, is a key factor for the future growth and witness of Christianity in this country,” said Bishop Dr Joe Aldred, Secretary for Minority Ethnic Christian Affairs at Churches Together.

He continued, “With this fact in mind, the 'Stronger Together - Weaker Apart' National Summit for Black and Minority Ethnic Church leaders, provides a great opportunity for ministers from these communities to join together to reflect on the history and successes of minority ethnic Churches and look at how they can have a greater impact in the lives of the people they serve, as well as secular society and the wider Christian community.”

'Stronger Together - Weaker Apart' National Summit will take place at the Emmanuel Centre, Marsham Street, Westminster, London SW1 on 20 October from 10.30am - 5pm. Speakers include Revd Dr Albert Odulele, Premier Radio presenter Muyiwa Olarewaju, Revd Celia Collins and Revd Rueben King, National Youth Leader of the New Testament Church of God.

“I believe this national summit will mark a turning point in the ministries of Black and minority ethnic Church leaders, and help them to realize they have a major role to play in turning the minds and hearts of the people of Britain back to God,” said Bishop Aldred.