Most of the arrivals from the Caribbean were devoutly religious. In Jamaica alone, there are approximately 250 denominations and it has the highest number of churches per capita in the world. Black churches in Gloucester
A number of black churches have sprung up within the city over the years. Their formation can be seen as a direct result of the experiences of prejudice and discrimination within the British church community on arrival. 
A number of black churches have sprung up within the city over the years. Their formation can be seen as a direct result of the experiences of prejudice and discrimination within the British church community on arrival. | | Our Untold Stories |
Moreover, with some denominations, the style of worship practised in British churches may have been too inhibited. For many, respect for the Sabbath, in terms of work and dress was too lenient. Many of these churches now have white members among their congregation, just as many members of the black community belong to predominantly white churches. Many of these churches now also provide a focus for community life. Relevant authorities approach these, as much as the voluntary groups, when they wish to consult with or involve the African-Caribbean community in ventures. They initiate and are involved in community work, including the setting up of luncheon clubs and appropriate housing for elders in the community. A large proportion of the community belongs to one of these churches, many of which are fundamentalist in their beliefs. They are very close-knit, with members often referring to each other as brothers and sisters. Ewart and Birdie Walker
One couple for whom the church is very much a part of their lives is Ewart and Birdie Walker. Ewart was born in Union Pen, St Ann, Jamaica and came to England in 1962. Birdie from Long Wood in St Elizabeth followed a few weeks afterwards and they married in Gloucester just over a year later.
When I came I felt like going back to Jamaica. I could not believe jobs paid only £3 and £5 a week I earned £14 a week in Jamaica and everywhere I went I had free transport and meals. | | Ewart Walker |
England was not Ewarts first choice of destination. "I thought of going to Germany after German consulates came to Kingston talking of building work. I had friends in Gloucester so I came here and stayed." He shared a room for a few days in Ryecroft Street and went on to find his own place with a rented room in Goodyere Street. He bought his present home in the late 1960s. He was not too impressed with work opportunities when he first arrived compared to what he had left behind. "When I came I felt like going back to Jamaica. I could not believe jobs paid only £3 and £5 a week I earned £14 a week in Jamaica and everywhere I went I had free transport and meals." Making the best of it However Ewart decided to make the best of it. "Sometimes youve got to be adventurous. If you stay at home you wont learn as much." He had no problems finding work as a porter with British Rail with his experience in British Airways in Jamaica. "There I had to deal with people from all over the world, so coming here I had a broad view it wasn't so strange. If you travelled on my train you travelled on a happy train. I got on all right. If I had awkward people, I didnt go down to their level." He retired from British Rail in 1993. In contrast, Birdie had a number of jobs, including working in the Air Force camp at Robinswood and a number of years at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital. In the early years Birdie and Ewart enjoyed going to pubs and dancing at clubs all over the country. Nowadays the New Testament Church of God is very much part of their lives. "We travel to Jamaica as often as possible but are not homesick," said Ewart. "I dont like living in two places at once and enjoy being near to our children and grandchildren." | 
