Our Church History: A Journey of Faith, Unity and Growth Since 2004

Debre Selam Kidist Selassie Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church was established in 2004 as a religious association in Greater Manchester, initially known as Holy Trinity Church. The founding congregation consisted of approximately 40 members, predominantly women, with a smaller number of men.

During the early years, the community faced significant challenges due to the shortage of priests and deacons. Nevertheless, members gathered every two weeks for communal prayers. Visiting priests travelled from London and other parts of the United Kingdom to celebrate Divine Liturgy, initially two or three times a year.

Following the arrival of the Sacred Tabot (Ark of the Covenant) of the Holy Trinity , Divine Liturgy became a monthly celebration.

In 2008 , His Grace Abune Entons bestowed the name Debre Selam (Mount of Peace) upon the church. In 2009, the church was officially registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales (Charity No. 1130742).

After 2010 , the congregation secured a regular place of worship in Manchester, allowing Divine Liturgy to be celebrated fortnightly. From 2011 onwards , services became weekly or fortnightly.

A major milestone was achieved in 2017 , when the congregation purchased the historic Grade II listed St John the Evangelist Church in Higher Broughton, Salford . From 2018 , regular Saturday Divine Liturgy was established.

Since late 2023, the historic church building has been closed for essential restoration. Worship continues at St Alphonsus RC Church in Stretford, Manchester, while efforts are underway to restore and reopen the church in Salford.

Today, the church serves over 1,000 faithful, having grown from a small prayer association into a thriving Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo community.

Its history is a testament to the faith, perseverance, sacrifice and unity of its founding members and successive generations of clergy and faithful.