Convinced that God had instructed them to come to the UK, they bought one-way tickets, not contemplating the possibility that they would fail in their call. They believed that by obeying God their mission would meet with success.

Back in South Africa, Pastor Gerri had been a successful businessman. He and Michelle, were members of Rhema Bible Church, one of the fastest growing churches in South Africa. In 1985 they attended Rhema Bible Training Centre and graduated two years later after which he was invited to become a lecturer and pastor at the Centre. Two years later he became Director of Faculty, a post which he held for five years, taking responsibility for about 500 students/

Pastor Gerri’s pastoral responsibilities included work among the 18,000 strong Rhema Bible Church. He also became Director of Christian Men’s Network for South Africa.

Having arrived in the UK God instructed them to move to Bristol. They started a church in October 1996, where their first members were their own family. In September 1997 they opened a Bible Training Centre, and as the church grew, moved to a warehouse on a trading estate near the centre of Bristol.

In October 2003 another move was made to the current premisies under the name of carmel: ministries international. This building was altered to accomodate the growing church with an auditorium for 500. Standing firmly on Bible truth, the church influences the community through publications, evangelism, community projects, church meetings and the facilities available at carmel: centre.

Pastors Gerri and Michelle Di Somma lead a work which is now reaching into other parts of the UK. They are also being called on internationally to share their ministry insights and wisdom.