About us: How did we begin?
In 1978 a group of churches from across the country set up the London Inreach Project. The aim was to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to communities in the heart of London. Work began in Soho in 1982, led by Michael Toogood, and eventually Immanuel Community Church was formed in 1987.
Invited by London City Mission, work also started in Covent Garden. Mike Mellor came to lead this in 1993 and Covent Garden Evangelical Church came into being in 1997.
Both churches saw some growth and were able to make real contributions to community life. However only a few local people committed themselves to joining the churches. Then as some members moved from the area (a common feature of life in Central London) the churches experienced an increasing struggle to be effective.
Many opportunities remained, however, and from 2003 the two churches began to work together more closely. Although it wasn't our original intention we discovered that the best way forward was to unite as one church serving Covent Garden and Soho together. In July 2007 we agreed to work towards this and the process will be completed in 2010.
We thank God that he has guided throughout our history and we trust him for whatever lies ahead.