Dr. Uche and Dr. Courage Okere are the pioneer and lead pastors of Hope Connect Church and consider this the greatest privilege of their lives.

Originally from Nigeria, Uche moved to Lancaster in 2007 to study for a master’s degree in Environmental Science and stayed back to complete his Ph.D. He and Courage got married in 2008 after her graduation from medical school.

For the past 20 years, Uche has been involved in active ministry, beginning from pastoring a student church in his university days and leading several youth ministry outreaches. Upon relocating to the UK, he plugged into a local church in Lancaster and served in many capacities including pastoring a new church plant and as an elder. Uche’s ministry is characterised by a passionate presentation of God’s word in a simple, relevant and engaging way that people find helpful in building up their faith dealing with practical issues of life.

Courage has also served in various ministry capacities including working with children, administration and supporting Uche.

In addition to leading Hope Connect Church, Uche works as a university academic and Courage works as a GP. They are blessed with two children of school age.