Our Story & Heritage
Discover the remarkable history of ACK Emmanuel Freretown Kengeleni Parish - a living monument to Kenya's journey from slavery to freedom.
A Living Monument to Faith & Freedom
Standing quietly in the bustling neighborhood of Kongowea near the Nyali Bridge in Mombasa, ACK Emmanuel Church Kengeleni is more than just a place of worship. It is a living monument to Kenya's journey from slavery to freedom and from colonialism to independence.
Established in 1889, it is one of the oldest Anglican churches in Kenya, deeply rooted in the history of the abolition of slavery and the spread of Christianity along the East African coast.
Our Historical Journey
From the arrival of the first missionaries to becoming a beacon of hope for freed slaves, our church has been at the heart of transformative moments in Kenyan history.
Dr. Johann Ludwig Krapf arrives in Mombasa, laying the foundation for Anglican missions in Kenya.
ACK Emmanuel Church Kengeleni is constructed to serve the growing Christian community of freed slaves.
The famous copper bell is installed, serving as both a warning system and call to worship.
Continues as a living monument to faith, freedom, and Kenya's journey from slavery to independence.
The Story of Kengeleni
A detailed look at our church's remarkable history and significance
Historical Context
The roots of ACK Emmanuel Freretown Kengeleni Church trace back to the arrival of Dr. Johann Ludwig Krapf, a German missionary under the Church Missionary Society (CMS), who landed in Mombasa in 1844. He and fellow missionary Johannes Rebmann initiated the earliest Anglican missions in Kenya, laying the foundation for what would become a vast network of Christian institutions across the country.
In the late 19th century, as the East African slave trade declined due to international pressure and British anti-slavery campaigns, many freed slaves were resettled in Frere Town, a settlement established by the CMS just outside Mombasa Island. These freed individuals, many of whom had been rescued from slave dhows by the British Navy, needed both spiritual nourishment and community support.
The Kengeleni Bell: A Symbol of Resistance
Adjacent to the church stands the Kengeleni Bell, one of the oldest church bells on the Kenyan coast. Suspended between two coral stone pillars, the bell is believed to have been made from pure copper and weighs around 300 kilograms.
A Warning System
The bell was rung to warn the community of approaching slave traders or danger.
A Call to Worship
Over time, it also summoned congregants to Sunday services and church gatherings.
Though the original bell was stolen in the late 20th century, a replica has since been installed. The bell's name, "Kengeleni," which means "at the bell" in Swahili, continues to evoke memories of a time when the community's unity and vigilance were vital for survival.
Architectural & Spiritual Legacy
Architectural Features
Built using coral stone with colonial-era Anglican simplicity blended with local craftsmanship. Features wooden pews and stained glass windows creating a serene worship atmosphere.
Spiritual Impact
Played a crucial role in Christian formation, literacy, and education for former slaves and their descendants. Became a nurturing ground for church leaders, teachers, and social workers.
The church continues to serve as a beacon of transformation, bridging historical significance with modern spiritual guidance for the Mombasa community.
Our Home Based Churches
Extending our ministry beyond the church walls through vibrant Home Based Churches (HBCs) that bring fellowship, worship, and spiritual growth directly to our communities.
Jerusalem
Damascus
Samaria
Zion Leisure
Zion Freretown
Zion Bombolulu
Bethlehem A
Bethlehem B
Judea
Galilaya
Jordan
Bringing Church to Your Neighborhood
Our Home Based Churches represent the heart of our community outreach ministry. These intimate fellowship groups meet regularly in homes across Freretown and surrounding areas, creating accessible spaces for worship, Bible study, prayer, and Christian fellowship.
Each HBC is named after significant biblical locations, reflecting our commitment to grounding our faith in Scripture while serving our local communities with the same spirit of hospitality and love that characterized the early church.
To glorify God by making disciples of Jesus Christ, building a loving community that worships together, grows in faith, and serves others with compassion and excellence in the Freretown area and beyond, continuing our legacy as a beacon of hope and transformation.
To be a thriving, Christ-centered community that transforms lives and impacts our neighborhood through authentic worship, biblical teaching, meaningful fellowship, and compassionate service, honoring our heritage as a place where freedom and faith intersect.
Our Core Values
These values guide everything we do as a church community, rooted in our heritage of faith and freedom
We love God and love our neighbors as ourselves, showing Christ's love in all we do.
We believe in the power of fellowship and building strong relationships within our church family.
We are grounded in God's Word and committed to biblical teaching and discipleship.
We gather to worship God with reverence, joy, and authentic praise.
We are called to serve our community and make a positive impact in Freretown and beyond.
We strive for excellence in all we do, giving our best for God's glory.
Modern-Day Significance
Today, ACK Emmanuel Freretown Kengeleni Church is part of the ACK Diocese of Mombasa and continues to serve a diverse congregation. While maintaining its historical charm, the church actively participates in:
Community Outreach
Youth Mentorship
Education Initiatives
Interfaith Dialogue
It remains a symbol of faith, resilience, and transformation, especially relevant in a country still healing from the legacies of colonialism and inequality.
What We Believe
Our faith is grounded in biblical truth and Anglican tradition, shaped by our heritage of freedom and hope
We believe in one God, eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
We believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God and our ultimate authority for faith and practice.
We believe salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works or human effort.
We believe the church is the body of Christ, called to worship, fellowship, discipleship, and service.
Meet Our Church Leadership
Learn more about the dedicated leaders who guide our church community and continue our legacy of faithful service.