The Gambia Celebrates 1 Year Birthday
On the 8th of March, 2026, the Church of the Nazarene celebrated their 1 year anniversary of being officially present in The Gambia in West Africa. The celebration commenced with a morning service at the church, where Rev Vidal Cole, FSC for the Africa West Anglophone Field, delivered a sermon from I Samuel 7:12, centred around the theme “This far the Lord has taken us.” Following the service, the main event unfolded at the Lemon Creek Hotel Hall, centred around the theme, “Small achievements compound over time”. Those present had the chance to share stories of what God has accomplished throughout the year. Members and guests delivered several speeches, after which a meal was enjoyed together.
The event marked the first anniversary of the Church of the Nazarene’s presence in Gambia. Celebrating small achievements invigorates the workers, motivating them to strive harder. As this was a celebration of success and achievement, born from consistent hard work, resilient mindsets and the courage to act despite fear. The purpose was to inspire the Gambian church to aim for greater growth and to inform our global community of the church’s expansion. It was also a tribute to God for His faithfulness thus far.
In 2024, the Global Church of the Nazarene identified a promising opportunity to establish a ministry in The Gambia. Despite Christians comprising only 14% of the Gambian population. The Lord’s faithfulness ensured a smooth start, and gradually, the fruits of this endeavour became evident. Under the leadership of Rev Cole, missionaries and Jesus Film initiatives in homes and communities, the church was established in The Gambia. Colonnel Dacosta, a church member, said, “We have the church, and it belongs to us, the Gambian.”
