On Saturday, 29th August 2026, a new chapter began as Bishop Geoffrey Folkes was officially installed as the Prelate of the UK Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ by Bishop Brandon Porter, Secretary of the General Board, in the stead of Presiding Bishop J. Drew Sheard.
A significant number of ecumenical leaders from other churches attended, including Bishop Mike Royal, General Secretary of Churches Together in England; Bishop John Francis of Ruach City Church; and Bishop Claion Grandison, Administrative Bishop of the New Testament Church of God, England & Wales.
Bishop Folkes is the fourth in succession following his predecessor, Bishop Emeritus Alvin Blake, who stepped down after 26 years of distinguished service. During his tenure, Bishop Alvin Blake achieved remarkable accomplishments, including the purchase of our current Headquarters in Luton, shortly after his consecration. He is also the second predecessor to witness the elevation of his successor in the history of our Church, following Bishop McLachlan, who retired to the Caribbean after passing the mantle to Bishop Bell.
Bishop Folkes serves as the Pastor of the Tottenham Assembly, a role previously held by Bishop Bell and then Superintendent Simon Reynolds. Bishop Folkes has also been the Pastor of the Aston Assembly and District Superintendent of both the Midlands District and the London North District.
He is married to Mother Ada Folkes and has two children, including the well-known gospel sensation Becca Folkes. A particularly, touching moment during the service was when Bishop Folkes’ daughter, Evangelist Rebecca Folkes, ministered the sermonic solo and captivated the hearts of all those who were present and those who watched online.
We invite you to join us in congratulating our new Bishop and in praying that God will continue to guide, strengthen, and protect him as he embarks on this new role.