Ruach City Church stands as one of Europe’s largest and fastest-growing charismatic Pentecostal ministries. Since its humble inception in December 1992, the church has expanded to a thriving community of over 7,000 members, with locations across the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates(UAE).

Renowned for its commitment to fostering Christian unity, Ruach has hosted a wide range of interdenominational events. In 2006, it made history as the first Charismatic church in the UK to welcome a serving Prime Minister, Tony Blair, during the landmark Power of One conference. Other distinguished guests have included Rev. Jesse Jackson, Baroness Valerie Amos, Boris Johnson, and Members of Parliament.

Each year, the church hosts its flagship Prayer for the Nation service, drawing civic leaders, law enforcement officials, and political representatives together in a shared commitment to community engagement, unity, and public service.

Our Growth & Locations

• 1996: First permanent building acquired in Brixton, South London
• 1998: Expansion to Birmingham
• 2007: Acquisition of the iconic Gaumont State Theatre in Kilburn — now a vibrant centre for worship and cultural renewal
• 2010: Third UK site launched in Walthamstow, East London
• 2011: Secured 26+ acres of land in Norbury, South London for future development
• 2022: Acquisition of the iconic Streatham Hill Theatre — now a vibrant centre for worship and cultural renewal

Media & Global Outreach

Ruach City Church’s global media ministry, Order My Steps, reaches millions through international networks such as The Word Network, Faith TV, and Impact TV. The church is also a registered UK charity (Charity No. 1204959), committed to service, empowerment, and outreach on both local and global levels.

Awards & Recognition

Ruach has been widely recognised for its community impact and excellence in ministry, including:

• Windrush Award for Outstanding Community Service (2003)
• Lambeth Civic Award (2005)
• Oasis Church of the Year (2006)

About Our Founder, Bishop John Francis

Bishop Francis, the visionary founder and presiding bishop of Ruach City Church, is an internationally respected voice in the gospel and Pentecostal movement. Son of the late Bishop T.G. Francis — a pioneering figure in the UK’s Black church movement — Bishop Francis has carried the mantle of legacy with influence and integrity.

In the 1980s, he co-founded the Inspirational Choir, one of the first gospel ensembles to break into the UK mainstream music scene. Their achievements include a BPI Silver Disc Award and prestigious performances before the British Royal Family.

A trusted advisor in both spiritual and civic spheres, Bishop Francis has been consulted by government leaders, including engagements at 10 Downing Street, and was instrumental in launching Flow TV (now Faith UK), one of the UK’s first Christian television stations.

His accolades include being named among Gospel Today’s Top 10 World-Class Pastors (2006) and appearing on the Power List of Britain’s 100 Most Influential Black People (2011–2016).

He shares leadership of Ruach City Church with his wife, Pastor Penny Francis. Together, they are proud parents to three daughters: Juanita, Teleisa, and Charisa.