7 Notable Satellite Churches In Africa (Updated For 2024)

Satellite churches, often referred to as branches or extensions of larger church networks, play a significant role in the religious landscape of Africa. These churches are spread across the continent, serving millions of congregants and acting as hubs for spiritual and community activities. Here are seven prominent satellite churches in Africa as of 2024:

1. Deeper Life Bible Church, Nigeria

The Deeper Life Bible Church, headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, is one of the largest and most influential churches in Africa. Founded in 1983 by Pastor William Folorunsho Kumuyi, it began as a Bible study group and has grown into a massive network with over 65,000 weekly attendees. This church has numerous satellite branches across Nigeria and other African countries, each reflecting the church’s commitment to holiness and deep biblical teachings.

2. Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), Nigeria

Founded in 1983 by Bishop David Oyedepo, Living Faith Church, popularly known as Winners Chapel, is another major church with an extensive satellite network. The church has its headquarters in Ota, Nigeria, and boasts a weekly attendance of around 50,000. It has expanded significantly with branches in over 65 countries, making it a truly global church with a strong presence throughout Africa.

3. Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Nigeria

The Redeemed Christian Church of God is one of the oldest and largest Pentecostal churches in Nigeria, founded in 1953 by Josiah Akindayomi. The RCCG has grown into a vast network with over 14,000 branches in Nigeria alone, and its reach extends to 192 countries worldwide. The church is known for its massive annual conventions and strong emphasis on evangelism and church planting.

4. Apostolic Church, Nigeria

The Apostolic Church, established in 1906, is another historic church with a significant presence in Nigeria and beyond. Its headquarters is in Ketu, Lagos, with a weekly attendance of about 40,000 people. The church has grown steadily over the years and now has branches worldwide, serving millions of congregants and maintaining its focus on the power of the Holy Spirit and divine healing.

5. United Family International Church, Zimbabwe

Located in Harare, Zimbabwe, the United Family International Church (UFIC) is the largest church in the country, with a weekly attendance of around 35,000. Founded in 2006 by Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa, UFIC has expanded rapidly, establishing satellite branches in several African countries. The church is known for its dynamic worship services and prophetic teachings, which attract large crowds both locally and internationally.

6. CRC Christian Church, South Africa

CRC Christian Church, headquartered in Bloemfontein, South Africa, was founded in 1994 by Pastors At and Nyretta Boshoff. With a weekly attendance of approximately 32,000, CRC is the largest church in South Africa and has expanded its reach across the continent. The church is particularly known for its vibrant youth ministry and contemporary worship style, which appeals to a younger demographic.

7. Christ Embassy (Believers’ LoveWorld), Nigeria

Christ Embassy, also known as Believers’ LoveWorld, was founded by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome in 1990. The church’s headquarters is in Lagos, Nigeria, and it has a weekly attendance of around 30,000. Christ Embassy has a strong media presence through its Loveworld Publications and television stations, and it has established numerous satellite branches across Africa and beyond, spreading its message of faith and prosperity.

Conclusion

These churches, among the largest in Africa, have not only grown in terms of membership but also in influence, with their leaders playing pivotal roles in religious and social issues across the continent. Their satellite networks ensure that their teachings and community services reach millions of people, making them key players in Africa's Christian landscape.