More about Elim

The Elim Pentecostal Church was founded in 1915 by a Welshman, George Jeffreys, who was an outstanding evangelist and church planter. He had a Welsh Congregational background, was strongly influenced by the Welsh Revival of 1904, and was introduced to Pentecost by an Anglican vicar, Rev Alexander Boddy of Sunderland.

The name 'Elim' was taken from the biblical book of Exodus where the Israelites, exhausted and dispirited en route from Egypt's cruel bondage to the freedom of Canaan, came to Elim an oasis in the desert where there were twelve wells of water and seventy palm trees. (see Exodus 15.27)

As the Movement grew with amazing rapidity against the background of dramatic decline in the historic churches, it proved to be a fitting symbol of spiritual refreshing.

Between 1915 and 1934, George Jeffreys conducted some tremendous evangelistic missions. This unknown preacher would commence a mission with a mere handful of people, and by the end of the week, thousands would clamour for a seat. Amazing miracles of healing had taken place. After the mission, very large churches were established.

Elim continued to grow despite the ravages of World War two and other difficulties and soon established itself as a Pentecostal power in the evangelisation of the United Kingdom. Today, there are over 500 churches iacross the country, and nearly 9000 world-wide.

Ministers are trained at its official residential college in Nantwich - Regents Theological College, accredited by Manchester University for the B.A. and M.A. degrees. Its global thrust is spearheaded by the International Missions Board, which operates in 35 countries, with orphanages, hospitals and schools as well as churches.

It has a vibrant Home Missions policy and is committed to the evangelisation of the UK and the planting of new churches. The winning of young people to Jesus is an important part of Elim's mission, and this is directed by its Christian Youth Ministries directed by the 'Serious4God Team'.

Elim's largest church is the 12,000 strong Kensington Temple, which has a network of churches in London and is led by Colin Dye.

To find out more about Elim churches, visit the national website by clicking here