Philadelphia Berea

Philadelphia Berea (formerly CoG 7th Day Hanley) is a Pentecostal church, built on the belief of the two greatest commandments: “to love the Lord thy God with your whole heart, soul, mind and strength” and “to love your neighbour as you love yourself”.

We achieve these through “building relationships with people as the priority” whilst playing our part in being the wheels of positive change in our community.  

In 2002, after a significant national church conference took place at the Victoria Hall in Stoke-on-Trent to address the role of the church in the community, some of the key needs that were identified were education, employment, health, finances and other crucial aspects that work towards community cohesion. A venue located in an industrial estate was selected and, after extensive renovation to make it fit for purpose, was officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent in 2004. 

Many years later, faith groups from emerging communities like the Fijian, Ethiopian and Eritrean have made it their home. Several youth projects, small businesses and a range of other community projects engage in activities that bring out their creative and entrepreneurial abilities.  

The venue hosts events as diverse as wedding receptions, film festivals, kids’ after-school club, fashion shows and church meetings, reflecting its commitment to being a community resource for holistic services. The facility also became the base for a project that supports refugees and those seeking asylum.